New Year's Resolutions Anyone?

It doesn't seem like it was that long ago that we were anxiously awaiting New Year's day 2000! In many ways it feels as though I have lived several lifetimes since then. Our business was booming as we entered our 6th year. And then there was 9/11 and our business like many others took years to recover. But recover it did and 2007 was a record year.

It is important to realize that during challenging times like these that we will survive. Our country and our business regained it's footing and boomed again. I am glad that the feds finally acknowledged that our current recession started 12 months ago. I am sure many of us could have told them that.

Not that I am any more clairvoyant than the next guy, but I remember advising clients I saw at the MANTS show in January of 2008 that this was a year to 'hunker down'. This should not be confused with giving up, but rather a call to manage your business like your life depended on it. I really didn't say it with quite that drama, but we've seen dozens of small owner operated garden centers go out of business this past year.

Who knows what 2009 will bring.

Well the answer to that one is up to you. Are you in it to merely survive, or are you in it to thrive? I know that this economy is a scary thing, but you've got to take a deep breath, swallow hard and get to work. As the trade show season looms on the horizon you should make this the year that you develop a practical approach to running a profitable business. It is a time for tough choices. You are going to need to approach staffing, inventory and yes, advertising with a steady hand and a steadier plan.

So take some time to re-charge your batteries and commit yourself to success. It shouldn't be entirely defined by your sales figures, but rather the bottom line. Approach each day with an eye towards the possibilities and then make them come true. As a small business owner your staff (and customers) are going to take their cues from you so you must be up to the task.

We have survived before and with proper planning and even better execution, we will survive again. So what will your New Year's resolution be? Enthusiasm and optimism is contagious. Spead the word...