Evolving Entrepreneurs from Job Loss Toward Prosperity

On a daily basis, media headlines announce stories about massive layoffs from major corporations such as Citibank, FedEx, Pfizer and many more. Thousands and thousands of able-bodied workers are losing their jobs. The grim reality is that these jobs are not coming back. It is a simple fact that technology has minimized the number of employees needed in almost every industry. For example, instant communication has rendered the postal service increasingly obsolete. Assembly lines rely more and more on robotics. Internet sales have reduced the need for bricks and mortar facilities. E-books today have greatly reduced the number of books printed and have all but eliminated the need for bookstores. Companies have figured out that they can actually be more productive with fewer employees. And indications are that this labor force downsizing will continue well into the future.

What are the options for the currently unemployed? The outlook is uncertain for many and gloomy for countless others. Those folks who have been out of work for months are very discouraged. The job market is not expanding for older workers and does not seem to be offering great opportunities for people who are just entering the job market. Many of the traditional sources for jobs have simply disappeared or been outsourced to foreign companies.

Politicians offer theories but are very shy on specifics. However, everybody agrees that the job market and the economy would greatly benefit by increasing the number of entrepreneurs. Owners of small and medium-size businesses are the backbone of this country. Historically, more than half of the products and services created come from the small business community. The problem is politicians do not have a clue about how to cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurs.

For nearly seven decades I have been a successful entrepreneur in the United States and around the world. I have also taught business economics and written several books about developing real business opportunities.

Today’s economic downturn has a huge upside that presents enormous opportunities for those who have the foresight, courage and discipline. The process must start with “targeted thinking.” In addition, you must understand the need to continuously adjust and evolve as an entrepreneur so that you can better adapt to the present circumstances. The potential begins when you understand a key principle: the best person you can depend on is yourself.

From the neighborhood store to the global marketplace, there is opportunity for everybody. It has to start with understanding who you are, knowing what your real abilities are, and, most importantly, being guided by what you really love to do. You then must make a realistic appraisal of your market and figure out how you can make your skills and your ambition work for you.

Now is the time for individuals to act. We cannot rely on government, corporations or unions. We must look to ourselves and believe that we have it within our power to solve our economic problems and evolve toward greater success. Millions of people are faced with the constant problem of having their expenses exceed their incomes. Whether you are out of a job, or your job does not produce enough income, you have the power to correct this situation and there are countless books, philosophies, resources and experienced entrepreneurs ready and willing to help and share their gained knowledge with you, right at your fingertips online. Everybody has the ability to be in business. The opportunities are far greater today than ever in history, and there is a technique to recognizing and making them pay off. There is a way to use what you already have to get what you want.