One version of the American dream is to own your own business and be your own boss. There is no one simple and sure road to a career in business or becoming a small business owner. People can get there in different ways and at different times in their lives.

Beginning in July, 7-Eleven is offering discounted franchise fees to honorably discharged veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. Veterans must be retired or separated to qualify, but will then receive a 10% discount on the initial franchise fee in any of the 30 states across the country where franchises are available.

A 7-Eleven spokesperson commented that success as an independent business person requires leadership, a strong work ethic, teamwork and team-building, system management skills and the ability to effectively execute plans.

According to the National Association of Convenience Stores, there were 144,875 stores in the U.S. as of December 31, 2008; these stores combined for $624 billion in total sales that year. In the U.S., 62% of convenience stores are owned by people who own a single store.