Did you know March 29th is National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day? Who knew we had a day?! (Though, I shouldn’t be surprised, as it seems there is a day for everything. Just Google a subject, and you can find something to celebrate every day!)
Anyway, I think it is a great thing to celebrate. Mom and Pop businesses built this country. We are the neighbors that provide more than just good and services in the local economy. If we are to survive, we have to be trustworthy, fair, and provide that “personal touch,” as discussed in our post, The Danger of Competing on Price Alone.
Along that same note, in recognition of the upcoming “holiday,” the SBA recently posted 4 Ways Mom and Pop Businesses Can Outshine Their Bigger Competitors.
It is easy to become frustrated as a small business owner over the lack of capital we have, compared to our corporate competitors. But, rather than lament that challenge, we can celebrate and build on our strengths, as the post says:
- We are on a first-name basis with our customers
- We are nimble and flexible
- We are part of the community
- We are small and local
One of my favorite quotes is:
If it does not Challenge you, it will not Change you.
As small businesses, we need to view challenges as opportunities for change. If things are not working, and competition from the big boys is fierce, harming our bottom line, we need to seek out ways that we can build on our strengths as Mom and Pop businesses to overcome our challenges.
So, rather than be discouraged in what you lack, take time this month to celebrate who you are and what you’ve built. And never stop seeking ways to be better.
If you would like assistance in brainstorming ideas on how you can build on your strengths, we welcome you to contact us.
Until next issue…Best wishes in your endeavors!