It's tempting to jump in with both feet when starting a business. There's so much to do, from choosing a company name to finding employees. Before adding too many items to your to-do list, though, take a deep breath, sit down at your computer and write out a business plan. A business plan serves two main purposes. It is a resource for leaders within your company to follow throughout the life of the business. It is a resource for others such as investors and creditors to learn about your company. Each business plan is unique to the company that creates it. Length and content may vary based on the audience that will view the plan. If you are writing for investors, focus on the financials. If you are writing for creditors, include information that explains how they will be repaid. Because your company is a growing and changing business, your business plan will also change, but by including key information about your company you will always have a jumping off point for makin