Women entrepreneurs are the largest growing group of business owners in the United States. Falling into that category myself, I am always interested in articles about this phenomenon.

Recently, a dear friend of mine sent me a link to the following article. It really does serve as an inspiration to those who’ve got a great idea and are plagued by thoughts revolving around one or more of the “myths” described in this article.

Men and women become business owners every single day despite of, in the face of, many different situations others may see as “obstacles.”

My business coach (yes, I sure do have one, which is a story for another time) always tells me, “There are no obstacles, only opportunities.” I have to tell you, I have heard this so many times, and worked with him for so long, I now know this to be true.

Not because there are no obstacles and I live a blessed life. But because obstacles are a state of mind. You can focus on the negative or focus on the positive. It’s totally up to you.

Do you have a passion for whatever idea it is you’ve just had - or had years ago and haven’t acted on yet but still keep rolling around in your head? If that passion is there… why not go for it? If you really honestly live and breathe that idea, there couldn’t possibly be an obstacle to stand in your way.

Pipe dreams? Rose-colored glasses?

Maybe.

But if you have a passion, you know what I mean. Nothing can stop you.

And the success stories out there are filled with anecdotes of what “obstacles” they had to overcome. And how many times they didn’t take no for an answer.

And, also, perhaps, how many times they wanted to quit, or how many times people “told” them to quit.

But they didn’t… and that’s the reason they are success stories.

Take a look at More magazine’s article. The next time you limit your thinking, take a mental inventory of how many of these “myths” you are falling prey to…

5 Myths About Women Entrepreneurs

Especially if you are a small business, referrals are of paramount importance. They are what keep you busy and sure help keep your marketing budget in check.

Whether you join a formal referral networking group (IRN, LeTip, BNI, etc.) or simply have agreements with other business owners who compliment your own services, referrals are little bits of business dynamite. They not only help close the sale because, after all, you’ve come recommended to this client… they help you build your network of business contacts.

I have found, personally, that joining a group whose goal is specifically to give and receive referrals from one another is a very powerful thing. I’ve grown to know, like and trust every single member of my networking group - which makes it easy for me to give referrals as well as receive them. And, this, after all, is why we are all there: to help our fellow business owners grow their business. It’s a powerful thing and I am lucky to be in a great group.

But aside from being a member of a formal group, there are contacts you no-doubt have that would make great referral partnerships for your particular business. Think about it: are you a dentist who could make great referrals to oral surgeons or orthodontists? A construction company owner who could make great referrals to plumbers, landscapers, interior designers? An insurance agent who could refer to accountants, mortgage lenders, lawyers or real estate agents?

The possibilities are ripe for your creative mind.

Here’s a link to a great article on networking and referrals. Now get out there and form some awesome partnerships!

Strategic Referral Partnerships - Power up Your Marketing

Well, it’s that time of the year again. Everyone buzzes about New Year’s resolutions and what goals they want to reach this year. But don’t forget, resolutions for your business are every bit as important as your personal ones! You can’t get where you’re going unless you know where that is, right?

Well here’s a great article on writing up a plan for your business success for the new year.

Creating Your 12-Month Public Relations Plan

Your brand is your interface between your customers and your company. It is your first and continuing contact with them and it’s important to put your best image out there at all times.

Your brand identity consists of everything you use to promote your business: logo, colors, brochures, web, business cards and packaging.

The following is an excellent article on the basic of branding:
Keys To Building and Exclusive Brand Identity