A positive outlook in a negative economy.

If you are anything like me, you like to look at things with a positive frame of mind. Not only does it help to keep you motivated, but it prevents you from making decisions based on fear. Everywhere you look right now, you see people and companies talking about the ineffectiveness of stimulus packages and the rising costs of operating a business.

Don't get me wrong, things aren't going well in our economy. But if you begin to tune into all the media hype, you'll lose focus on your business goals and bad decisions may follow. Napoleon Hill said the following:

"The strongest oak tree of the forest is not the one that is protected from the storm and hidden from the sun. It's the one that stands in the open where it is compelled to struggle for its existence against the winds and rains and the scorching sun."

This is an excellent reminder to me that, without adversity, there is no growth. It's in the difficult times that you will show your true colors and character as a business owner. During a down economy, you may be tempted to take on a negative outlook or you may even compromise your values to bring in new business. Don't do it.

I believe when all is said and done, it is the business owners who have a true heart toward helping their customers that will succeed in these tough times. Now is the time to take a look at your marketing message and the way you serve your customers to determine where you can improve (there are always ways you can improve).

Now is the time to make sure your advertising is honest and true to your company's values. It's not the time to cut back on marketing or advertising. It's the time to evaluate your plan and make your strategies better so they work for and not against you. And if you need help doing that, turn to experts in traditional and internet marketing.