Do you dream about starting your own business, but don't know where to begin? Does the idea of being your own boss and creating a great company that provides innovative products and services excite you? But all you do is dream, unable to move ahead?

Many women feel that way when the idea of entrepreneurship first hits them. I've spoken to dozens of women who say they want to strike out on their own, but they feel overwhelmed and confused. I felt that way too, when I started my business more than twenty years ago.

But what I've learned from my own experiences, from the research and advice I've received from some of the country's top mentors, and through the coaching and interviews I've done with other women, can help you too. Starting a business can be simple - if you want it to be. What you need to do is break down the process into individual steps. Here are the first five steps to get you going.

1. Commit to One Business

You must commit to one business. The biggest roadblock to starting a business is not knowing which business is right for you. Over and over again, I hear women say that they want to be entrepreneurs, but they can't decide which business is right for them. You've got to have a heart-to-heart talk with yourself and decide what you are passionate about.

This is not about the latest fad or fashion. This about you and what makes your heart sing. If you want to start an online business, then commit to it. If you want to open a clothing store, then go for it. If you want to be a contractor, then move ahead. But don't hang yourself up by wanting to do all three things at once. That's just a cop-out that keeps you confused and paralyzed.

2. Research that Business

Today, it's easier than ever to learn about any industry in the world. For the fastest results, search online for the type of business you want to start. Read blogs and bulletin boards by people doing similar things. Listen to appropriate podcasts and teleseminars. Learn about sources of help. Read industry articles online and then buy the magazines or books that can teach you more.

You also need to network with people who can help you by going to seminars and joining business organizations. The more you know about the business you want to start, the more passionate and excited you will be.

3. Surround Yourself with Positive People

Negative people stand in your way, especially when you're trying to overcome your own doubts about starting a business. They are a drain on your time and your energy. They will undermine your ambitions and make you question your ability to succeed. They come in many guises, from people who lack self-confidence and don't want you to get ahead to others who see the downside of every situation. Positive people will help you build your business. Seek them out.

4. Create a Business Blueprint

Don't worry about writing a formal business plan at first. You may never need it. Business plans are necessary only if you want to raise money from a bank or other source. Instead create a three to four page business blueprint for yourself. Describe what the business does and exactly how you're going to start it and run it.

Write down your specific responsibilities and list the things that other people will do. For example, who will design the product you're going to sell? Who will do the bookkeeping? Who will handle sales? Create a written picture of how the business will function, then you'll be able to move ahead.

5. Build a Team

One of the biggest roadblocks to starting a business is thinking that you've got to do it alone. Instead think about building the following teams:

Professional Advisors: This will include an accountant, an insurance agent, and possibly a lawyer or real estate broker. Make sure you get recommendations from other small business owners before you hire these experts.

Informal "Board of Directors": This is a group of advisors often made up of friends and acquaintances with business expertise who will be happy to mentor you without charge as you're finding your way in the business world.

Your Own Staff: This is the team who will work with you on a daily basis to help you create and build your business. If you're not ready for full-time employees, think about hiring college interns or part-time employees. Don't make the mistake of trying to do everything yourself. Instead focus on the key activities that will give you the biggest return. Your business will grow twice as fast.

Jane Wesman is president of Jane Wesman Public Relations, Inc. and author of Dive Right In – The Sharks Won’t Bite:  The Entrepreneurial Woman’s Guide To Success. You can contact her at jane@wesmanpr.com and www.wesmanpr.com.