By Fernando Berrocal

Running a business is a dream come true for many people. As a result, many entrepreneurs end up forming a sole proprietorship, which is an unincorporated business run by one person.

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The simplest form of business to start is a sole proprietorship, but it has significant disadvantages. While sole proprietorships are the most common business structure, there are other choices available, such as incorporation. Finally, the appropriate business structure for you will be heavily reliant on your specific circumstances. We'll go over the advantages and disadvantages of running a sole proprietorship to help you decide.

What to Think About When Starting a Sole Proprietorship?

According to a survey, 63 percent of people in their 20’s own or aspire to operate a business. While there are numerous motivating elements, one of the most common is the desire to be your own boss. You determine the conditions when you run the show. The majority of people who go on to start a small business do so as a sole proprietorship. You'll have ultimate say over when you work, where your business is situated, what products and services you sell, and how you market them as a sole entrepreneur. You'll benefit from the earnings as well.

Owning a small business, on the other hand, has its downsides. You'll probably have to work long hours since 33% of small business owners say they work 40 - 49 hours per week, and 30% work 50 - 59 hours per week. Furthermore, almost half of all businesses fail within five years. Owning a business has many advantages, but it also has certain disadvantages. Operating a solitary proprietorship, in particular, may put you under a lot of stress. We'll go through the benefits and drawbacks of this form of business in the sections below.

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The Advantages and Disadvantages of a Sole Proprietorship:

• Pro - It's Simple to Set Up: A sole proprietorship is the quickest, simplest, and most cost-effective option to start a business. In many places, if you're operating a business under your own name, you don't even need to register; you may just get started. You won't have to file the annual reports that businesses are required to file.

• Con - You’ll Be Completely on Your Own: Unfortunately, being the single decision-maker means you'll be responsible for everything. Many businesses might benefit from outside advice and partners who can help them handle their responsibilities. Sole entrepreneurs, on the other hand, are on their own and can easily become overwhelmed. So, creating a sole proprietorship might not be a smart choice if you get burnt out fast.

• Pro: There is just one Decision Maker: A sole proprietorship is one individual who owns and manages the business and makes all of the decisions. This implies you won't have to negotiate with a board or collaborate with any partners. As a result, you'll be able to make rapid judgments and make choices that are in your best interests.

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• Cons - Harder to Separate Personal and Business Finances: Many businesses owners desire to keep their personal and professional life separate. Unfortunately, sole proprietorships make this extremely difficult. Your business and personal money may become entangled rapidly. Furthermore, you may be forced to use personal assets for commercial objectives.

• Pro - Taxes are often easier to understand: Sole owners don't need to pay corporate income taxes. Instead, their earnings are taxed like personal earnings. This makes taxes easier to manage for many entrepreneurs. However, in some situations, forming a business may allow you to reduce your tax payment.

• Con - You’ll Be Liable: As a sole proprietor, you'll be exposed to various risks. You'll be accountable for all of your business's debts. Some entrepreneurs, otherwise, choose to form partnerships to share risk among several partners. Others choose to form a business, which is a distinct legal body capable of taking on its obligations. While this reduces hazards, it also introduces new obstacles.

• Pro - You Own Everything: As a sole proprietor, you have complete control over the business earnings. You'll also be the sole owner of any assets generated by your business. You'll be able to pass the business on to your heirs when you retire or move on. Investors, equity shares, and other variables must be considered while forming a business.

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Conclusion:

While starting your own business may be your ambition, you should be aware that while many entrepreneurs succeed, many more fail. As a result, if you're going to create a business, you'll need to figure out how to structure it. For lone entrepreneurs who are just starting, sole proprietorships are generally the ideal option. Still, as your business expands, dangers rise, so you may wish to switch to a different business structure at some point. This might entail forming a partnership or incorporating your business. Changing your structure may lower risks and make it simpler to keep your business and personal lives distinct, which is critical.

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