As I sit back and think ten years ahead in the future, what do I see? Well, first I’m hoping I’ll still be with the love of my life and my children would be on their way to being the next Disney Channel star in the making. I’ll be hopeful and say I’ll only have 10 years left on my mortgage and I’ll be debt free.

But, more than that, I want to be a successful entrepreneur striving for the top. I want to see myself teaching my kids the ropes of our family business (just in case their rise to stardom doesn’t work out), maybe making a few worthy investments, maximizing the benefits of stocks and bonds and utilizing capital in a smart way to be a thriving business person.

Looking ten years in the future really means examining life now, in the present. All of us have to start planning now for what’s to come and that means thinking business.

Franchises are a valuable investment if you’re looking for a low-cost credible start-up business. There are nearly a million franchised establishments in the U.S. consisting of food, retail, manufacturing, agricultural, health care, and professional services.  Franchisees, can have a higher chance of success than in a sole proprietorship and includes initial training and ongoing support, established brand awareness and the opportunity to benefit from national and regional advertising.

Buying into an established business has numerous benefits. You don’t have to devote your time and energy to brainstorm a business plan or develop a business model- the work is already done for you.

This not only includes the customers, but suppliers, employees, equipment, and systems as well. It is a good possibility that the previous owner(s) may offer some insight and assistance, therefore making the transition easier.

In addition, the cash flow most likely will start immediately, rather than in an unknown timeframe when starting a brand new business.

Each year, Franchise Business Review surveys thousands of franchise owners across North America and publishes a ranking of today’s top franchise opportunities based exclusively on owner satisfaction.

Just a few that made the list for 2015 include; Visiting Angels Senior Care, Budget Blinds, MaidPro, Two Men and a Truck, Home Care Assistance, Amada Senior Care and much more.  This list includes numerous franchises in the healthcare, automotive, Home Services and Senior Care sectors.

Don’t get me wrong, I do believe in starting a business from scratch, but whatever you choose, plan now and plan smart. One job is not cutting it nowadays.