As America approaches its 250th birthday and businesses reach the midpoint of another year, it's a good time to take stock. Not just of goals, results, and challenges, but of the responsibilities that belong to each of us. What role do small business owners play in building stronger communities? And what does it mean to do our part?
After years of watching small businesses grow, stall, recover, and adapt, one pattern keeps standing out: the owners who build steadier businesses are not always the busiest or the smartest — but they often make calmer, clearer decisions over time.
In this month’s article, Lorette explores why business eventually becomes easier for some owners, what happens when we stop clinging to unnecessary work, and how stable principles paired with flexible execution can create stronger, more manageable businesses.
Impact isn’t just about activity—or how busy you feel. It shows up in your results. In this article, we look at what actually drives better revenue: the clients you choose, the decisions you make, and the small improvements that compound over time.
This isn’t a growth surge—it’s a setup season.
Small businesses are moving, but more carefully. Customers are buying, but more selectively.
The question isn’t what’s happening in the economy.
It’s how business owners are actually behaving—and what that means for what comes next.
Winter can mess with momentum. Sales slow. Energy dips. Customers disappear.
But winter isn’t a verdict on your business — it’s a strategic season. Instead of scattering your effort or chasing everything at once, this is the time to simplify, strengthen, and quietly prepare for the spring rush. A focused plan can turn the doldrums into visible progress.
As Q1 unfolds, many business owners find that their plans are sound—but the results feel unclear. This article explores why a strategic pause, early review, and intentional focus can create more clarity than pushing harder.
A thoughtful start matters. This article reflects on why intentional planning and clear priorities—not working harder—set the foundation for a stronger business year.
What does it mean for optimism to become your natural resting state? Lorette shares personal insights, research, and practical strategies for leaders who want to navigate uncertainty with clarity, steadiness, and a grounded sense of possibility.
Success at managing a thriving farm market takes what I call The 4 C’s: Consistency, Communication, Consideration, and Collaboration.
The field of artificial intelligence is so vast that no one, especially me, can see the whole layout. Some people think it will save humanity; others, that it will (has) destroyed us.
Here are just a few threats that have caught my attention in the last couple of weeks:
