Let’s face it…
If starting a business and making it successful were easy, everyone would do it, right?
A whole lot more goes into a starting a business and making it a success than simply having an idea. Implementing a business plan takes a great deal of effort. Ask any entrepreneur who has built a successful business if they have had any challenges along the way. They are going to tell you, “Absolutely!”
No matter if that business lies within the realm of your expertise and experience, there are always going to be challenges along the way. Changes such as consumer preferences, competition, demographics, and non-anticipated increases in costs of materials all create setbacks of one kind or another.
Our cover honoree this month, Maria Rios of Nation Waste, Inc. and Nation Safety Net, knows all too well how tough it is to start a business, especially when the odds are against it. Maria and her company, Nation Waste, Inc were featured on the cover of our March 2013 issue of SMALL BUSINESS TODAY Magazine. Imagine being a young, Hispanic woman in a male-dominated industry (waste management), having only worked for another waste management company, and never owned or started a company before. You know that the odds were against her from the start!
Well, not only has Maria been extremely successful in her waste management business, she has created several divisions including her newest one, Nation Safety Net. You will certainly enjoy and be motivated by her incredible story.
Also, in this issue, it is time to shine the spotlight on one of our favorite organizations, the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council. They are celebrating their 45th anniversary this year! SMALL BUSINESS TODAY is very proud to have been a media sponsor of this amazing organization for more than 6 years. Happy Anniversary, H.M.S.D.C.!
Before I conclude my Publisher’s Column this month, I want to leave you with some words of advice from my good friend, Ruben Gonzalez, a 4-time Olympian and National Luge Champion who recommends, “You are bigger than your circumstances. Face your fears, pursue your dreams, and make your life an adventure.” As you start your business or continue to grow it, remember that airplanes take off against the wind!
Good Reading & Success to You!
Steve Levine
