Fuel for Thought

HELP!

In this economy, for many owner operators, it has been a struggle just to survive, let alone thrive. We all hear or read stories practically everyday about someone closing up their business. While there are a multitude of reasons for those struggling to keep their business afloat, the economy is only one factor. Exorbitant repair costs, over extended equipment payments, lack of a good paying customer base and medical issues seem to top the list. Whatever the reason, it can take a toll on one’s mental health. 

If you are finding it increasingly difficult to keep your business going, reach out to your peers for an outside opinion. Sometimes you can build up some small issues in your head and could use a somewhat neutral second opinion from others in the same business to help you break the issues down into smaller, manageable pieces. Don’t let the lingering downturn in the market vampirize your determination to persevere. When you wrestle with issues for extended periods of time, it can sap your energy and reduce your motivation to find new solutions. In some cases, it can lead to unethical decisions and actions. As a business owner, you always have to remember to gauge your actions or reactions through the eyes of your most demanding critics… your customers. It can take years to garner trust from a customer, but it might only take one unethical action to remove that trust and exacerbate the problems you are already dealing with exponentially. There are no shortcuts. 

The way you respond during the down times will show your true colors, your character, to all of those who see, even to those you didn’t even know were watching you. 

As we make our way through this high expense, low revenue market, if you need to speak to others in the industry, please do so. There is no shame in asking for help when you need it. Consequently, if you know of someone who is struggling and are able to help them, reach out to them and offer to help.

Keep your chin up. Focus on the goals you set for yourself and find new ways to achieve them, 

I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.

-  Jimmy Dean

Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible. 

-  Francis of Assisi

If you believe in yourself and have dedication and pride - and never quit, you'll be a winner. The price of victory is high but so are the rewards. 

-  Bear Bryant

Your present circumstances don't determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start. 

-  Nido Qubein

See you down the road,

Greg