I know, I know, that’s a bold subject line. Just stay with me and keep an open mind…

It’s no secret that our worst fear is often failure. But what if failure was actually a good thing?

Encountering our fears and failures prompts the most necessary changes in our businesses.

Most people hear the word “accountability” and instantly go on the defense. What I’m learning is that accountability is nothing to be afraid of. In fact, it should be embraced.

I read an interesting article the other day about negativity versus positivity inside relationships. The article specifically mentioned a husband/wife relationship, but as I read and really started thinking, I saw a very applicable lesson with my team and even my customers. I thought that you, as a small business owner like me, could get some value from the information as well.

As you know, it takes a lot of self-control to make it through the stressful workday. Something little can happen like the phone rings and the conversation not go the way I’d like, and then I’m in a negative mood that affects my productivity and the rest of my day.

Spring is here! It’s that time of year where we roll up our sleeves and tackle some of the biggest projects we have around the house. While many of us wouldn’t hesitate to get started at home, few have ever thought about what doing a little “spring cleaning” in our businesses could mean for our success.

To make more money and have a successful business, all you have to do is LISTEN. My grandmother used to say, “God gave you two ears so that you listen twice as much as you talk.” Most of the time, I’m guilty of talking too much when I should be listening.

Referrals are often one of the more difficult aspects of any business owner. One thing that I learned early in my career was that you can give a little and get a lot back if you take the time to market yourself and your business towards a rewards system.

As my wife and I are getting fully settled into our new house, I was going through some of my older materials and found a gem from Jim Rohn that I knew I should share with you.

In Jim’s article, he talks about fear.

Fear is found all around us and in small amounts can be helpful by keeping us from dangerous situations.

Although your own internal measurements are the most important, you will occasionally need to seek external feedback on your progress toward your goals. When you do, be sure it is from people who are truly interested in seeing you succeed. Don't seek feedback from fair-weather friends, competitive peers, or any person who doesn't have your best interests at heart.

Neglect is like a pebble in your shoe. What starts as a slight annoyance can lead to a sore that can become infected that leads to a staph infection – and THAT can kill you.
 
As overdramatic as it may sound, that’s what happens in both your business and personal life if you ignore the pebble of neglect.