Stress.  Just thinking about the word can cause hot flashes, worry and a sinking feeling.  It is an inevitable trait in the workplace, especially in owning a company.  Stress is often associated with one word: busy.  Whether you are too busy or not busy enough, each brings about a different set of anxieties that you are suddenly forced to deal with.  As a small business owner, it is logical to think that you will be strained both physically and emotionally, as the success of your business largely (or solely) relies on you.  Follow these tips to manage and eliminate stress, and overall create a better balance between work and life.

There are many decisions you will have to make as a new business owner, but one of the most important may be choosing a logo.  Though it may seem insignificant, the time spent to carefully select a logo is well worth the investment.  This one image will capture the essence of your company, and is a single word or picture that will directly relate to your new business.  When starting to select a logo, it can be overwhelming and difficult, but if you keep these simple steps in mind, you leave a lasting impression for years to come.

The key to a successful business lies within its staff.  A ship can’t run with just a captain; it depends wholeheartedly on a strong crew to sail correctly.  How do you ensure that your employees will guide your business to success?  It all starts with the hiring process. There should be many requirements that you follow when hiring your employees, both in personal and legal matters.  Follow these three steps, and you will be one step closer to having a successful business.

On April 10th, 2013, President Obama released a $3.8 trillion budget plan for 2014.  Though it has yet to be voted on, it sets a solid example on how it could affect small businesses, and small business owners (SBOs).  Much like the debate over ObamaCare’s impact on small businesses (based on the resulting changes to insurance regulations), the proposed budget forces SBOs to start thinking about how to prepare for what the budget could bring. 

Here's a quick article that can help you start thinking about how to use technology to advance your new business.  Whether it's moving to the cloud or finding ways to enable your employees to work more flexibly, there are many low-cost solutions available that may help move your business forward.  Of course, not every solution is right for every business (see our article about the pros and cons of allowing employees to work from home).