Just as there are many ways to earn money on the Internet, there are just as many ways to lose money.  Whenever you hear about a successful online entrepreneur, chances are that he or she spent countless hours trying to make it happen.

As long as you have the following four qualities, then it is safe to start browsing the “businesses for sale” listings with confidence:

Time:  The most valuable commodity in any business owner’s toolbox is time.  Like any other new business, it will grow gradually, but it will require a lot of time researching products, fine-tuning the web site and finding an audience for your products and services.  There are no “shortcuts” to a successful online venture.

Money:  You should have enough money to get started, and to keep you afloat financially until the business starts to blossom.  Even the best laid plans and budgets are revised several times during the first few months in business.

Patience:  As we all know, it takes time to gather all the knowledge and expertise necessary to running a successful business.  Just when you start to lose your patience is usually when things start to come together, so plan on sticking around to see the fruits of your labor.

Passion:  While less quantitative than some other qualities, passion is an absolute “must” for success in any business.  Don’t just start a business you think will be profitable. You must have passion for what you are doing.  When you lack a genuine interest in your products and services, it will show in your profits. 

If you still feel good about entrepreneurship after examining whether you have these traits, then it may be time to peruse an online business FSBO directory and look for online business opportunities.  The BizSale.com Businesses for Sale by Owner directory puts you in direct contact with the business owner.