Figuring Out What Can Sink Your Business -- and How You Can Save It Here's how to spot hidden weaknesses within your operation and steel yourself for unexpected battles.

The stronger your business is, the more you stand to lose. Here's a helpful approach to making sure your business is bulletproof.

Q: I'm up late at night wondering what could sink my business. How can I know where I'm vulnerable? -- Chris G., New York

Chris, let me tell you what you don't want to happen. About a year ago, I had a cancer scare. I was sick for more than 70 days, and I watched my business turn upside down. Decision-making slowed to a halt, and every inefficiency was magnified. Did we weather the storm? Yes. But it served as a reminder that as an entrepreneur, there's no such thing as too much preparation.