In all the hustle and bustle of your new small business, your To-Do list hardly has any more space left.

Just remember, before you add another item, jot down this one at the very top: Back Up!

I’m not talking about taking 3 steps backward. I’m talking about ensuring that your computer’s database and all your files and folders are backed up in case of a system failure or virus.

In one instant, all the information you’ve collected for months - years!- could be lost, never to be seen again.

Always consider that complete recovery might not be an option.

If you’re wise, you’ll get in the habit of backing up regularly. Depending on how much information you log in to your computer each day, most people back up between a few times a week to a few time per month.

Going any longer than that isn’t recommended. And if you really want to make things easier, install an automatic back up system.

If you think of the potential loss you could suffer, taking the time to back up is well worth the effort.