Remain A Positive Influence In Your Community

Hurricanes, wildfires, shootings, earthquakes, scandals, and an unsettled political environment have people feeling a range of emotions leading into our holiday season. Feelings from guilt because we are a witness, bystander, or survivor to being anxious and downright scared depending on how much of the news you believe. For some, it is hard to look forward to this season of thanksgiving without some sense of anxiety or grief. However, to overcoming these heavy emotions, it is in these moments we should work to shift our focus to giving thanks and celebrating unity more than ever.

Many of the tragic events overshadow some of the wonderful things that are taking place in our country. Where there has been tragedy, we are also seeing unity, acts of kindness, and selflessness for the benefit of others. Individuals and communities are coming together to rebuild and help others in need.

Another area for "thankfulness" is in that of our business and economic climate. Just this month, the Bureau of Economic Analysis, a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, reported that the United States gross domestic product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 3% in the third quarter, just shy of the 3.1% from the quarter before. In addition, we are seeing record-breaking numbers in the stock market and exponential growth in the franchise industry. In fact, if you did not see the recent "Good News" article in Franchise Update Sales Report, it is worth the read if you are looking for reasons to smile in light of all that is going on in the world.

Personal reflection and that of the business and economic environment are important for all of us. We need to consider the positive and the good that is happening, at the same time as the not so good stuff. As we reflect on how well the business climate is, remind yourself of what you have built in your franchise portfolio. Consider how you have supported your community and your employees and how you contribute every day. Think about the people you have touched and celebrate in the opportunities that you have had, as a franchise owner, to affect positive change.

Devastation, tragedy, and horror cannot be forgotten or overlooked. However, we can commit ourselves to finding the positive and how we contribute and help every day through our presence as business owners in our communities. What have you done to support your people and your community, to lift them up when things are down? Share with us here!

Kendall Rawls knows and understands the challenges that impact the success of an entrepreneurial owned business. Her unique perspective comes not only from her educational background; but, more importantly, from her experience as a second-generation family member employee of The Rawls Group - Business Succession Planners. For more information, visit www.rawlsgroup.com or email info@rawlsgroup.com.