Many people started their own business because they couldn’t get a job. Others, who had a job, started a business only after they were fired or laid off. And still others started a business in their spare time, then went full time when it became very profitable.

Whichever category you may find yourself in, you’ll appreciate the ideas and inspiration in the new paperback edition of “Start Small, Finish Big—Fifteen Key Lessons to Start and Run Your Own Successful Business,” by Fred DeLuca, co-founder of the Subway chain of fast-food restaurants.

The book tells how DeLuca got started at age 17 and how 15 other entrepreneurs went from nothing to great personal and business success. Each chapter illustrates one of these 15 key lessons:

1. Start small. It’s better than never starting at all.
2. Earn a few pennies. It’s good practice before you earn those dollars.
3. Begin with an Idea. There’s probably a good one right under your nose.
4. Think like a visionary. Always look for the big picture.
5. Keep the faith. Believe in yourself and your business, even when others don’t.
6. Ready. Fire. Aim! If you think too much about it, you may never start.
7. Profit or perish. Increase sales, decrease cost. Anything less and your business will perish.
8. Be positive. The School of Hard Knocks will beat you down, but not if you keep a positive attitude.
9. Continuously improve your business. It’s the best way to attract customers, and generate sales and profit.
10. Believe in your people. Or they may get even with you!
11. Never run out of money. It’s the most important lesson in business.
12. Attract new customers every day.
13. Be persistent. Don’t give up. You only fail if you quit.
14. Build a brand name! Earn your reputation.
15. Opportunity waits for no one. Good or bad, breaks are what you make them.