Note: You need to be a contrarian. In addition to working
harder than everyone around you, you have to zig when
others zag. For example, in a down market or economy,
the average business cuts sales and marketing activities
and expenses by 37%. They also cut back on training and
support. This starts a downward spiral that sinks them faster
than almost anything else. When there is a downturn in the
economy or market, that is the time to step up your efforts
even more. Go out and get competitive business because
the competition is not out there as much and they aren’t
staying in touch with and appreciating customers as much.
Also, as a general rule, it is usually best to look at what
everyone else is doing and do the opposite or something
substantially different. People who follow tend be one of
the people moving from cash into stocks when the market
is at 18,000, or one of the last ones in to the latest MLM.
W
anticipate and welcome change
Speaking of down markets and economies, we all know that
change is the one constant in the universe. That said, many
people run their business as if nothing bad will ever happen
then they’re surprised when the stock market crashes, the
economy nosedives, or the real estate bubble bursts. The
most successful people on the planet embrace change and
look for an advantage. They know it’s coming and they
adapt faster and more successfully than everyone else. You
won’t be able to anticipate everything but you can predict
about 80% of what’s likely to happen. Don’t dwell too long
on bad things that can happen or spend a lot of time here,
just anticipate what could happen and have some solutions.
Also, when change does come, don’t get negative and
complain about it. Just realize that you knew change would
come at some point and here it is. Now, what can you do
about it? Get positive and look for the advantage.
run lean and invest as much
as you can back into the business
The best investment you can make is in yourself and your
business. When you are creating your own economy, you
need to put as much money as possible into your sales and
marketing efforts and in developing the skills you need
for success. Running lean means not taking a huge salary,
buying a fancy car, or spending money frivolously and
carelessly on toys, trinkets and other non-business essentials.
Running lean does not refer to cutting corners or skimping
on items in yo \