All new companies start small and gradually build their businesses into the empires that we see today, like Wal-Mart, Google, and Microsoft. However, entrepreneurs that have niche markets with small market sizes still thrive, even though they may not share the spotlight with the Fortune 500 companies.

Many entrepreneurs simply want to maintain their current corporate income level, but have the freedom and autonomy to run their own business. It’s not always about the mass millions and for entrepreneurs looking to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while enjoying the day to day excitement of running their own venture should not hesitate to launch their own business just because you think it won’t be the next hot IPO stock in 5 years.

Entrepreneurs value the excitement that comes with seeing their ideas come to fruition, being their own bosses, and having the flexibility and freedom to let their ideas and imaginations run wild more than they value monetary value that can be associated with starting your own business. Look at the neighbor who started his/her dog-walking business, or the corner baker who opened his bakery. Just like the guys who founded today’s Fortune 500 companies, it all started with a passion to carry out a common interest of creating something new.

If you have a business idea (and who doesn’t) but are hesitant to start your business because you feel that your idea isn’t big enough, understand that most entrepreneurs successfully launch small businesses that more than provide them with a comfortable lifestyle. A quick reality check to help you understand how many dogs you need go walk, muffins you need to bake, or product you need to sell to make a comfortable income will help you set your initial financial goals. Once established, it’s up to you to decide if and how you want to grow your business past a comfortable size.