Manage polarities to address challenges

How many times have you encountered a situation that feels like “whack a mole” or the movie “Groundhog Day?” Recurring problems might not be what they seem. Managing what Barry Johnson describes as “polarities” could offer not only insights, but also strategies to better deal with challenges that arise. Johnson starts with a question: Is […]

Buying a business offers higher returns, but also presents pitfalls

Business ownership constitutes an attractive prospect for people looking for not only profitability, but also flexibility. Many entrepreneurs and investors focus on creating wealth through startup ventures or such investments as bonds, real estate or stocks. They all offer benefits and risks. But buying an existing business — whether you’re paying with cash or using […]

Does fear of change limit your happiness and success?

Change remains a reality of business, whether we want it or not. Business environments, economies, team dynamics and technology all change. So, for that matter, does the weather and relationships. Life is all about change. And if we habitually resist change, we limit the potential of all that’s available to us personally and professionally. Many […]

Here comes the sun — and so should precautions

Even from almost 93 million miles away, the sun inspires awe. It produces just the right amount of energy for plants, animals and humans to survive; holds our planet in a secure orbit; and instills joy in our hearts as we open our blinds, walk in the park or enjoy a beach vacation. As is […]

Build and develop your team with assessments

One of the biggest challenges business owners face in creating a company that stands above the rest is a lack of credible, unbiased information. It’s what you don’t know that really limits your potential. When considering the future growth of your business, having clear, powerful and accurate information that positions you to build and develop […]

Pets in businesses a hairy issue

Everyone loves their furry, four-legged friends. But enjoying your pet doesn’t give it the rite of passage into a business. Pets in public spaces have become a polarizing issue with the increasing use of service animals and emotional support pets, confusing business owners about what’s allowed, what’s not and the potential liabilities involved. Even more […]

Qualified improvement property rules offer benefits

Small business owners historically have been frustrated they’re unable to recover nonresidential commercial real estate costs through depreciation in a reasonable amount of time. Nonresidential real property had been relegated to a 39-year straight line recovery life with no opportunity for accelerated deductions. This unfavorable depreciation period and disappointing annual deduction led real estate investors […]

Agency offers guidance in dealing with harassment

Earlier this year, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission introduced proposed enforcement guidance on unlawful harassment. An enforcement guidance document details agency policy and explains how laws and regulations apply to specific workplace situations. While there’s no public timeline for the guidance to be further reviewed and adopted, the document provides helpful information and practical […]

Exercise good choice in promoting health

If exercise and weight loss were a married couple, I’d tell exercise to file for divorce. “Exercise, weight loss is holding you back,” I’d say. “Before meeting weight loss, you used to be fun. People liked you. Now, people barely put up with you. Many avoid you completely. Your relationship with weight-loss is toxic. It’s […]

Do you foster trust and loyalty in your team members?

As a business owner, it’s likely you have some understanding of the detrimental effects a lack of trust and loyalty can have on your culture, the success of your business and overall happiness. You also might have some insights into the tremendous benefits trusting and loyal team members bring to your business and customers. Trust […]