Have You Declared Your Independence?

Good question. As we get to the mid-year point of 2008, many in this business feel far from independent.

The mindset of many is we are dependent on so much. The oil companies are against us, the credit card processing fees are killing us, the cost of food products is escalating, labor costs are up, taxes are on the rise, profits are getting squeezed, and any other number of negative issues have some crawling into the corner in fetal position.

Not exactly how you envisioned the year when it began, is it? The New Year - full of hope and the usual list of resolutions - now mostly forgotten. The good news is there is still half a year to plan for better times ahead.

Instead of dwelling on the problems which, by the way, have always been a part of this industry, get these issues in balance or you will never survive. Usually, this weekly blog features tips regarding technology and how it can help solve your problems. While it can, that is for another week.

This week’s tip is one of balance. We know the issues mentioned above are real, but don’t make them overwhelming. Add some balance to your life and you will find your life is not completely dependent on the economic ills of the moment.

One way to gain balance when lamenting your own fate is to turn around and help someone else. I learned from a highly respected fuel jobber (and former employer) just how important this was, not only to the community, but to your own sense of perspective when viewing the big picture. Many times, after assisting others with their problems, your own may suddenly appear a lot less daunting.

Many of you have already figured this out as demonstrated by your involvement in charity work: MDA, FCA, cancer fundraising, and local benefits. One of you donates a penny a gallon to help those in need of home heating fuel in the inner city. Another delivers turkeys every Thanksgiving to families in need. The list goes on and on. We are a very charitable industry.

At CMI, we have people individually involved in fundraising for cancer walks, time devoted to Boy Scouts, time donated to troubled youth, and another who donates his frequent hotel staying points to families with sick children so they can be near them while at a far away hospital.

The common thread for all of these companies and individuals is they lead a balanced life with purpose and a shield of goodwill which all the bad news of the economy cannot pierce.
Don’t let the second half of the year go to waste. The bad news is not going away, but if you get involved in helping an individual or group of people, you will be gain the perspective to overcome those issues and realize true independence.

To learn more about pricebook and inventory management solutions, call Joe Terranella at 800.211.5980 x2504 or visit our website http://www.cmisolutions.com.

Feel free to forward this tip to friends, co-workers, employees, business partners who you feel might enjoy or benefit from it.