I agree with Paul. Only by doing your business plan yourself will you be able to think through all the aspects of the plan. If you are struggling, by all means get help from a consultant, but then go back to the plan and continue with it on your own. It is especially critical to do the financial forecasts in as much detail as possible because this is where you will discover the weaknesses or inconsistencies in your plan and you may have to re-think or re-calculate as you go along. If you don't tackle the practical thinking behind starting your business yourself, you are not ready to start your business. Also, once the plan is in place, remember that it has to be a flexible working document. You refer to it regularly to keep on track and also amend it regularly to adjust to the changes and challenges that you will encounter.