With the festive season well in swing, now is the time that people look back on the past 12 months. For many small business owners, 2012 was a tough year. Even some of the big boys didn’t survive - this year we lost electronics giant Comet, with other brands like Clintons, La Senza and JJB barely hanging on after calling in administrators and closing many of their stores. But it seems there is a glimmer of hope in 2013, especially for small businesses or those hoping to start up.

A report released today reveals that small business owners are significantly more confident about the future than they were a year ago. It seems that confidence has been building slowly over the last few months. Since the summer we have reported on planned staff investment and expected growth among small businesses as the economy slowly recovers from the downturn.

The Government also has a part to play when ensuring business success in 2013. The annual Autumn Statement, released this month, included a lot of positive changes for small businesses. A cut in corporation tax, a freeze on fuel duty and the long-awaited Business Bank all promise to make it easier for small businesses to take off.

If you’ve been sitting on a smart business idea, 2013 might be the time to finally make the leap and start fresh. Starting a business needn’t be as hard as you think. There is a lot of financial help out there, and not every business requires a large investment to get off the ground. If you’re not willing to give up the day job there are many small businesses that can be started in your spare time. And of course, you can spread the word of your business online with a website for a very low price.

Every business has to start somewhere, so why not make it your New Year’s resolution to finally put that great business idea into action?