Dear Readers,
Even though summer has just started, it has brought us much rain in Michigan. I am pleased about it though because the water bill for keeping the plants looking great outside the office will not cost a fortune.
Now both the business person and the homeowner is looking for ways to cut back. This is definitely a comeback time for those who want to become entrepreneurs or reinvigorate their lives. It has been tough for a lot of people after the housing loan bust.
There are many businesses that made it through but the economy has sure made it tough on those who want to expand or grow. Those who are especially in danger are those who were one of the homeowners who had to foreclose due to a bad loan.
When I started this business, I knew nothing. The classes that I took really did not help me with some of the issues that I had like, “What kind of bank account should I open? Should it be a credit union or a regular bank?”
Looking back in retrospect, my wish is that I had a good attorney and a great accountant. Thinking about going into business or need advice, start looking now. Ask friends who are successful.
I had so many questions, I was also raising a young family too. I have been in business for 13 years and never took a journalism class. I only knew what might stir people without it always having a negative spin.
I remembered as a child always thinking that I wanted to be a lawyer. Now I just get to fight for people’s rights differently. I am a writer. A peopletician. I am fine with both positions.
I am very interested in free speech but not hate speech. Speech should not incite riots between groups. They should not between business people either but I will be the first one to tell you that it happens. Pull out of the nonsense. Cut your losses and move on. Unless a lawyer states that you can win millions, the amount of time, resources and money may not be worth it. Try something new. Look into something better for you and your family. Start networking again.
I have been a part of many organizations that make you feel important but the networking does not really pan out. Overall if you belong to a business organization, you will want to reap the benefits. Each businessperson has a different approach.
Over two years ago, I just stopped joining organizations, listening to speakers and just standing watching other people around talking at networking events. I always stood alone. I only belong to two now. I have been with the Greater Lansing Visitor and Convention Bureau for over 10 years and I recently joined the Lansing Black Chamber of Commerce.
Two years ago, I decided that I was worn down by the amount of volunteering that I was doing. What is this “exposure”? Sometimes you just want to be behind the scenes. You do not want to be in the front with the microphone. You are looking for people with like minds to encourage your success. You cannot fire volunteers, they are sometimes the lifeblood of an organization.
Even if you are a rock and mineral collector you need a guide, someone with more experience can teach you how to select, describe, illustrate and tell you where to go to find the specimen that you are looking for. Having helpful colleagues, members of your organization, associates and friends is important in any endeavor you plan to passionately pursue.
Love people,
Rina Risper
Printed in the June 29 – July 14, 2014 edition.
