10 Things I Believe as a Business Owner
Owning a business has its perks, such as making your own hours, numerous learning opportunities, sleepless nights, anxiety, and the list goes on. It also has a few disadvantages. Bad things happen like a client leaves, an employee quits, or people say things that aren’t true. These are the moments that define who you are as a person, not just a business owner. I have certain beliefs that I have held since I started this business and I want to share them with anyone who is bored enough to read this mess. This list is supposed to be a reminder of what I believe so when things happen I don’t lose sight of who I am.
- Always work hard. Nothing in life worth having comes easy. (just ask any mother, business owner or homeowner) People will recognize your hard work even when you don’t think they notice.
- Tell the truth even when it’s hard. People respect the truth even when it is not what they want to hear.
- Treat people kindly. Even rude, mean, misguided people could use a kind gesture. Usually a kind act can change someone’s attitude for the better. Reaching out a simple olive branch, such as inviting them for coffee, or sending flowers, can turn a frown into a smile and possibly turn that rude misunderstood person into a friend.
- Not everyone is meant to be your client. Some people just aren’t a good fit for you, whether they hold different ideas about business, don’t understand the importance of what you do, or are a conflict of interest, it is best to try to be honest with these people (and yourself) as soon as possible.
- Try to find the best in people. It can be difficult to find the good in some people. Trust me though, you will enjoy someone’s company a lot more if you can find reasons they are favorable instead of reasons they are not.
- Accept responsibility for your actions. We are all going to make mistakes (we are human). It is way easier to just admit you messed up, apologize, and come up with a plan to fix the problem, rather than covering it up.
- Let the little things go. This has everything to do with patience. Every battle is not worth fighting and every comment is not worth responding to. Listen, nod, and let it go.
- Treat employees like family. The people who work for you are the heart of your business. Although not every employee will stick around forever, (sigh) you can try to make the experience they have working for you enjoyable and memorable.
- Don’t forget your family. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in running a business, we forget the ones who support us at home. I especially have been guilty of this, working on weekends or networking events on school nights. It is ok to say no to some of these things to spend time with your family.
- Share your blessings. I find so many business owners who already do this and admire them so much. When you are able to give back, do it! Volunteer, donate, lend a helping hand or share advice. Small things matter just as much as large gestures.
- Bonus: Don’t let other people measure your success for you. Your success is yours to determine. Set small goals so you can celebrate them at each milestone and don’t let someone else’s idea of success get in your way.
I wish I could say I had practiced everything I just wrote about every day. These are the traits I try to remember and put into practice when running Southern View Media. I sometimes have to remind myself what is important. That is why this list, in written form, came to be. I am sure there are hundreds of principles I have missed, overlooked or forgotten about. Leave a comment and let me know something that is important to you as business owner.
When Life Hands You Grapes, Don’t Compromise Your Beliefs.
When Life Hands You Grapes by Michelle Murrill 
Good stuff!
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