There are a large variety of home businesses on the internet, and if you are interested in starting up your own online business then there are many options from which to choose. Working from home certainly seems attractive, and there are a number of ways of doing so for those who want to make money online.

You might have your own product already that you want to sell online, or you might want to get involved in affiliate marketing and sell other people's products. You might even prefer the idea of multi level marketing (MLM) that was successful offline with companies such as Amway, but has had astounding success online for those that are great salespersons and can quickly build up valuable down-lines.

Whichever method of making money you choose there are a few truths you should be aware of before you start. Firstly, it is hard work. Don't believe those that claim to work for a few hours a week and spend the rest of the time on the golf course. Unless you already have a successful home business in which you employ others to do all the hard work, you could be working longer hours than if you worked for an employer.

However, when you succeed the rewards are equally high. To do so, you must have realistic goals and expectations. Too many expect too much.

Keep in mind that 99% of home businesses fail quickly after they have started. That is largely due to unrealistic expectations, and also to poor planning. There is saying on the internet that you may have heard and read many, many times: 'A failure to plan is a plan to fail'. If you do not set goals, and then fail to set out a plan to attain these goals, then you will not succeed online. That is fact.

Even if you do plan, you will need to apply yourself and not be set back by a few knocks. Persevere: most people who fail give up too quickly. Their heads have been turned by all that 'get rich quick' nonsense. There is no 'get rich quick'. When you fall down, as you will, then stand up again and get on with it. Many people try for years before they finally make it. And when they do make it, then they all agree on one thing - it was worth it!

So, don't expect too much too soon. It might take a year; it might take five years, but stick with it. Success will come eventually. Keep in mind the benefits of a home business. No commuting, no rush hours and no bosses. You can do what you want, when you want to do it. Sounds great, doesn't it? That, however, can be a double edged sword. You need discipline.

A home business is no different from any other business - you have to put it in to get it out. If you keep taking time off all day then you are liable to fail. Keep in mind that it is a home BUSINESS, not a home HOBBY! You can do what you like with a hobby, but a business is what you are relying upon to feed you. So work! It is a job. You might be self employed, but you are still employed, even if by yourself.

Keep that in your head at all times. Home businesses on the internet are businesses, not hobbies. Have realistic goals, plan to attain them and work hard at doing so, and then you should be one of the few that are successful.