Instead, they turn to outsource solutions, especially in areas such as graphic design, training and legal services. Choose businesses with low start-up costs. One of the reasons many people become consultants is it doesn't cost much. If you work from home, use your phone, and have a computer and an Internet connection, you can be up and running as soon as you get your business cards printed. Be cautious about businesses sensitive to economic forces.
Some industries resist economic fluctuations more than others.
A friend is thinking about opening a gym. I don't know whether gym membership goes up or down in weaker economies, but I suspect that gyms are more financially volatile than Laundromats. If you're already thinking about starting a business, or find yourself thinking that way soon, don't be discouraged by news of a weaker economy. This may be the perfect time to follow your dreams.