Failing to Take Advantage of Available Resources

Numerous potential resources are available to help you maintain and grow your business. Those resources include

Professionals, including CPAs, attorneys, and bankers

Boards of advisors

Local business organizations

Consultants

Mentors and coaches

Colleges, universities, and Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)

Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)

Industry trade organizations

Given this wide range of resources, why are so many small-business owners reluctant to take advantage of them? Unfortunately, independence is a major factor. While the desire for independence plays a significant role in many of the decisions you make to start a business, it can work against you, too. If you embrace independence too tightly, you may be reluctant to ask for help — even when you really need it. How can you embrace that independence without letting it drag you down? Get out of the office, mix with your peers, seek help from outsiders, and keep your eyes open for educational and training opportunities.