Jobless should rethink opening own business

As the nation’s unemployed struggle to make ends meet, many are likely to consider striking out on their own as entrepreneurs.

So ClearRock Inc., a Massachusetts-based executive and career coaching firm, has a few questions budding Michael Dells might ask themselves before giving it a solo go in the business world.

• Why do you want to start a business? Being unemployed is rarely sufficient reason, although about a third of new businesses begin because the entrepreneurs felt they had no other options. Most successful entrepreneurs are passionate about their ideas and fields.
• Is starting a business right for you? The endeavor will require financial and personal sacrifices, many times steep ones.
• Are you prepared to put in the time? New entrepreneurs usually work longer and harder than people in corporate jobs. Also, be ready to do without a paycheck, benefits and perks.

Survey: Toothbrush among most treasured gadgets

You’ve got your cell phone, Pocket PC and Blackberry, along with numerous other gadgets piled around the house.

But what’s most crucial? That 600-year-old weapon against funky breath, the venerable toothbrush.

In a survey of 1,042 adults and 400 teens, 42 percent of adults and 34 percent of teens ranked the toothbrush as more important to them than cars, microwaves, computers and cell phones. The car came in second.

Motley Fool: Name that company

I’m an international giant that manufactures, markets and distributes branded beverages and confectionery products in nearly 200 nations. My brands include Dr Pepper, 7UP, Canada Dry, A&W, Snapple, Hawaiian Punch and Mott’s. I employ some 40,000 people and rake in about $8 billion per year. I’m the world’s third-largest soft drink company. I’m acquiring Adams from Pfizer for $4.2 billion. (Adams, known for its gum, sports such brand names as Trident, Dentyne and Hall’s medicated.) Once merged, I’ll be the world’s No. 2 chewing gum company, tied for No. 1 in global confections. Who am I?