2009 was a challenging year for most businesses. While we were challenged, it wasn't by the economy, as much as it was learning the lessons associated with owning a business and interacting with a whole host of challenges and situations that come with owning a business, especially in a challenging economy. So, here is the "top 10" list of lessons learned in 2009.
1. A good business model that is executed with integrity and passion can thrive in any economy.
2. Integrity, values, structure, and a constant attention to learning are the most important aspects of running a successful business.
3. Choose what you want to do and then sell, sell, sell. Things have a way of working out.
4. Toughness does not mean bitchiness.
5. Through thick or thin…it is critical to keep your integrity and values intact.
6. A strong team is absolutely critical to supporting the vision of a thriving, profitable business.
7. Generosity and service does not always breed respect, loyalty or reciprocity. In fact, sometimes it breeds the opposite.
8. Boundaries are critical to running a successful business.
9. Every business has its own unique and special culture. Some clients will fit and some won't. That's as it should be.
10. The best clients are the ones that respect you, are aligned with your values, and are willing to collaborate with you.