Usually, most people make their “New Year’s Resolutions” to make some changes in their lives and/or their businesses. Since my birthday is exactly one month after the start of the New Year, I am resolving to make the following changes in my life and in my publishing business:
I am sharing this for two reasons; one because I seem to always do better when my goals are written in as many public places as possible; and two because when I share my goals with others, I become more committed to see them through.
Here they are:
1.) To trust my instincts.
Even though I tend to be a bit reactionary at times, when my gut instinct tells me that someone (or something) is not a good “fit”, then they probably are not.
2.) To let go of what I cannot control.
I tend to take ownership of everything in my world and I have to remember that many things are beyond my control. I have to let it go.
3.) To not speak badly about myself.
I am my own worst critic. The real problem arises when I share those self-reflections with others.
4.) To not be afraid to say “No” or “Yes”.
I over-obligate myself because I want to be involved with everything that I am asked to be a part of and sometimes forget to agree to do the things that matter most (e.g.: take time off. See number 5.)
5.) To take better care of myself.
“Hi! My name is Steve and I am a workaholic.” I work every day. I seldom take even one day off!
I pledge to take more weekend getaways this year and to take my first vacation in two years…a cruise…albeit a “SMALL BUSINESS TODAY Hosted Cruise”!!!
I am sure that my Wife/Partner/Editor (who proofs all of my columns) is going to be very pleased to read the above.* (*See Editor’s note below.)
Well, enough about me, now, on to what you will find in this issue.
We are very proud indeed to be able to “shine the spotlight” on two of the most amazing women (not just businesswomen) that I have ever met and one who was referred by the other!
I met Ms. Sonia Clayton of Virtual Intelligence Providers, LLC through her work with the Houston Minority Suppliers Development Council back in August 2013 when she agreed to be one of the eight “Strategic Partners” needed for the H.M.S.D.C. Feature Article in the October 2013 issue. Not only did I make a new friend and find a remarkable businesswoman who was more than qualified to be honored on this month’s cover, but, Sonia has become one of the strongest advocates that this magazine has ever had!!! She truly sees our vision and has made it “her” mission to spread the word about the publication and it’s empowerment of our readers. You will enjoy her story!
One of her first referrals (in October 2013) was Ms. Tracie Mann of Body Restore Med Spa & Laser Center. Tracie has also become a huge fan of the magazine and has sent several referrals our way. She is truly an amazing woman with an even more amazing mission; and I promise you that you will become a big “fan” of hers after reading her story! She and her staff really are “Healing lives, one body at a time!”
With all of the great articles in this issue, it is time to let you get started perusing them and (hopefully) putting them all to work.
Good Reading, Good Sales, and Great Success to You All!
Steve Levine
President/Executive Publisher, Small Business Today Magazine
