Business owners say they're focused on creating new jobs; however, they're not doing enough when it comes to business planning, which could unintentionally hurt their businesses, according to the 2012 U.S. Trust Insights on Wealth and Worth Survey.

"Some of the most successful business owners and entrepreneurs in history have been driven by a desire to change the world and improve the lives of others," says Keith T. Banks, president of U.S. Trust. "The country was founded on that spirit of entrepreneurism, and it is a tremendous engine of economic growth and prosperity. Yet many business owners are so caught up in what they are doing that they often don't envision a world without them in it. By not anticipating risks or a change in circumstances, they unintentionally may put the financial security of their families and employees at risk despite their best intentions."

Seventy-two percent of respondents report that they are responsible for creating jobs while 76 percent of respondents say they are obligated to keep their workers employed regardless of how it affects profits. Another 66 percent of respondents say their abilities take create opportunities for others makes them feel empowered, which is twice as many people as nonbusiness owners. Since 2008, 55 percent of respondents report that they have started, acquired or made major investments in an effort to grow their businesses.