THOSE WHO HAVE PAVED THE WAY

Often times we feel alone in our situation; we feel like there is no one that can possible understands
what we are going through. They can never comprehend what it feels like to run a small business; how
much hours are placed in it each day; how many sacrifices are made just to ensure that the bills and the
employees are paid this week.

I want to assure you that you are not alone; there are countless entrepreneurs who were in your shoes.
Who knew what it is to have the success of the business placed on their shoulders. And you know what?
They did it! They never gave up! And if Kernel Saunders, Norm Larsen and Mary Kay Ash can do it so can
you!

It is said by Peter F. Drucker, management consultant and self-described social ecologist that “The
entrepreneur always searches for change, responds to it, and exploits it as an opportunity”

As the economy and consumers change so do you when it comes to your business. You have to look for
the opportunity it gives you as the changes takes place. As Jean Nidetch, who started Weight Watchers
in her New York apartment in 1963 and sold it with revenues of $1 billion in 1978 said “"It's choice, not
chance, that determines your destiny."

As you read the history of these entrepreneurs be encouraged that you too can succeed. Success in
business requires training and discipline and hard work. But if you’re not frightened by these things, the
opportunities are just as great today as they ever were. – David Rockefeller

Kernel Sanders Norm Larsen Mark Kay

Ash
 “….Without Me You Can Do Nothing” John 15:5

AND most importantly always keep God and His promises as your core; your foundation. Remember
His words never change. The economy will change, the fades and fashion will change BUT God word is
constant.

Here is a reminder of what God’s word promises:

1. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways
acknowledge him, and he will direct your path.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) Learn something every day. If you
only lean on your own knowledge in your business, you will not be able to grow. You must grow
yourself to grow your business

2. “Behold, I am doing something new! It’s already happening; don’t you recognize it? I will clear a way
in the desert. I will make rivers on dry land.” Isaiah 43:19 (GOD’S WORD® Translation) Sometimes your
business will need to move as the market pulls you in a different direction. You might need to reinvent
your business, and you should not be afraid. God’s always got your back.

3.”Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving,
present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6 (NIV) One of the most important things you can do for
your business is to pray every day.

4. “Faith without works is dead.” James 2:26 (KJV) You can’t just pray for success. Develop a plan and
work your plan. If you can do something about your situation, then do it. Stop making excuses, stop
procrastinating, and do it!

5. “As I think in my heart, so am I.” Proverbs 23:7 (NKJV) Your thoughts can be your number #1 asset or
your biggest liability. When you are alone in your office or back bedroom, your thoughts can easily turn
on you. Your ability to stay positive, learn from all experiences and shake off mistakes quickly will be a
big asset to you and your business.

6. “God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)
Making decisions in your small business based on fear is never helpful. For that matter making decisions
in anger is not good either. Try hard not to be reactionary with clients, vendors or employees. Use
factual information and up-to date financials to make sound business decisions.

7. “Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding;” Proverbs 3:13 (NIV)
You need to be a lifelong learner in order to be successful in business. You should constantly seek to
improve yourself and increase your knowledge about the business of running a business.