A friend of mine related a story about how he built his business. He was a successful engineer working as a partner in a firm in the corporate world; however, his dream was to be an entrepreneur. He followed his dream, resigned his position and bought into a partnership in a commercial janitorial business.

He sacrificed and gave all he had to make this small business a success. After three months, his dream turned into a late night of scrubbing toilets and wondering whether he had made the right decision.

His business partner observed him and said, “I know what you are thinking. You want to quit!” He continued, “You are wondering if you can get your old position back and how you can recoup your investment.”

My friend said, “That is exactly what I am thinking!”

The partner said, “I know that because I have been there. But tomorrow you need to get up and go sell.” He said, “You need to keep selling even if you don’t know how you are going to cover the contracts.”

The next morning my friend got up, put on his suit and began to sell. He never looked back and built his business into a multimillion dollar company.

Your story may be different than my friend, but the same in that we all could use perspective on how we are growing our business and career. Take the time to ask yourself, “Is what I’m doing going to grow my business?” As 2012 comes to a close and we wrap up another year, take a moment to identify what it will take for you and your business to grow to the next level in 2013. Are you heading in the right direction and doing those things everyday?

The North San Antonio Chamber, its staff, board and membership can be a voice for you and your business and a catalyst to help you get to the next level. I am consistently amazed at the resources provided to small and large businesses and their leadership. Take advantage, today!

The 2012 Leadership Lab class is graduating next month and nominations are being accepted for the 2013 class through November. You can find out more about this award-winning program and apply online. Our members send prospective leaders every year because they see the value of gaining perspective and building relationships. This trend will continue as we endeavor to train a new generation of leaders. Discover … Be Inspired … Succeed!

The How 2 Access Capital seminar will be held Wednesday, November 7, and the Sustainability Series Fueling Your Success will be held Thursday, November 8, while our final Chairman’s Council Breakfast will feature the annual economic outlook presented by renowned economist, Dr. Ray Perryman, on Thursday, December 6.

We’ve added 231 members this year to our roll and have grown our net membership by 59! The North SA Chamber staff and Board of Directors will continue to find ways to keep your business strong. Even if you are not involved as much as you would like, rest assured that the North Chamber is working on your behalf everyday, every week and every year.

Remember to vote! Early voting starts Monday, October 22 through Friday, November 2, and Election Day is Tuesday, November 6!

Larry Anthis, Frost