Most entrepreneurs want to develop and expand their businesses quickly. Unfortunately, new ventures may fail if they grow too fast and too soon. Here are two basic questions every entrepreneur should ask herself:

Do I have a plan?

You must plan how to handle an increased demand for your product or services. For example, you may be able to produce your handmade items to keep up with the sales at retail craft shows, but what if you decide to sell the same items at a wholesale shows and take in $5,000 worth of orders at one event? If you have not planned how to step up your production (including the equipment, packaging and shipping that is involved), you could lose credibility with your customers when you cannot fulfill their orders.

Am I ready to give up some of the control over my business's operations? Increased workload may mean that you have to hire employees or subcontractors to help you out. If you are the kind of person who needs to have your hands on every product or service that your company provides, expanding your business will change your role in ways that you may not be comfortable with.

Have I thought about all the ramifications of business growth?

Consider carefully how expanding will affect your business's finances, your time and your personal life. Bigger is not always better. One mother who makes and sells specialty cheesecakes says that right now, with her children still small, she does not want to expand further. She likes her present business pace, which still allows her to participate in her children's school functions and other activities. Another work-from-home mom advises: "Do not forget why you chose to work from home in the first place. Children grow so quickly, and you can never have yesterday back."

Do not be disappointed if now is not the right time for you to grow your business. Focus on pleasing your present customers and developing your business skill. That way, when the time is right, you will be able to handle your business's growth.