It isn't usually easy, but it can be a very good thing to do. With unemployment rising, it's a good time to stop thinking in terms of 'Who will give me a job?' and more of 'What can I do?'

You could start with a list of all your skills and knowledge, not forgetting to include hobbies, games you play - anything could give you a business idea. Then look around you. What is missing in your community, for instance, that you could provide? A new business venture can be anything from a cleaning service to a radical new invention, but it's only going to work if people want it.

You also need to consider how much money you have or can get. It's hard to borrow money or get investment at the moment, so the less your project costs, the easier it will be to get going. However, if you have a brilliant scheme that needs capital, don't give up - with a good business plan and a lot of persuastion, you may still get funding.

You can find some startup tips here.