This week we celebrate America’s independence. On July 4, 1776 the Declaration of Independence was signed declaring our country’s independence from Great Britain. This national holiday, commonly referred to as the 4th of July, is typically associated with fireworks, parades and summer parties. But independence has a broader meaning for small business owners. The spirit of independence is what motivates many entrepreneurs — the opportunity to become your own boss and create your own destiny.
Small businesses are the backbone of local communities. They create jobs, hire local service providers and are often the first to support local community projects. For example, in some local areas where city budgets are bust, it’s the small business community raising the funds needed to put on local firework displays. Experts report that for every $100 spent with a local business, $70-80 is returned to the community. Yet many suffer or go out of business when large chain competitors arrive on the scene.
So this week as the country celebrates its independence, it’s a good time to celebrate the independence of the small business owner too. Make sure you support your local independent businesses. And if you are a small business owner, celebrate your own independence. Give yourself a high-five. Starting and growing your own enterprise is challenging to say the least. But you — as with all entrepreneurs – are an independent thinker and visionary who enjoys building something on your own.
Remember, our country was founded on the spirit of entrepreneurship. Our ancestors who came to America did so with a vision of freedom and a desire to build a better life. Today that spirit continues to thrive in our country. Owning your own business is for many the American Dream.
It’s an interesting time in our country’s economic history as more and more people are striking out own their own. I applaud you for your efforts, your tenacity and your willingness to take a risk. We are all fortunate, despite the current economic turmoil, that we live in a free society which gives us the opportunity to make it on our own.
Happy Independence Day America. And happy independence day to my fellow entrepreneurs.
