Hi Chris,

Thanks, interesting topic!

In my case, I would say the real reason I'm in business is for independence.... I've never liked having a boss, telling me what to do. I've always thrived best when I could choose my own direction.... I like to make my own destiny! :)

I think the complexity of business is because there are a LOT of things you have to become competent at, if you're going to succeed running a small business. (In a large business, you can hire the talent you need, but in a small business you often don't have that luxury....)

Some of the skills you need are some sales & marketing skills, some accounting skills, some negotiation skills can help, some product acquisition (or product development) skills, some customer service skills.... And I'm sure there are more! When I look back over the last few years, I can see that my success has increased the more I have developed these skills!

But on the other hand, business is very "simple" too.... I think most business is summed up by "buy low, sell high". That's how you make a profit. If you think of it that way, it's not too complicated at all. The key is to do it ethically, in a way that gives your customers value for their money.... :)

- Dien Rice