Think Different Because the American Entrepreneurial Spirit is Alive!

As we know, restaurants are having a difficult time due to rising costs due to inflation, supply chain issues, and labor challenges (I'm not so sure about actual worker shortages). Feeling the inflation pinch, as well, customers are being more diligent as to where and when they may decide to enjoy a meal at or from a restaurant.

Although, some restaurants are realizing sales increases over pre-pandemic levels. Why and how are they thriving while others are barely surviving? But the real question in my mind has to do with change - not a shift, not a pivot, but actual change.

As such, this is my question of the week: Is it necessary to change how to conduct business, adapting to the circumstances of the times instead of adjusting, revising which may be more akin to putting square pegs in round holes? Are we crazy to think different (as entrepreneurs, restaurateurs & small business owners), or should we just go with the flow?

Speaking of square pegs and round holes, I just love the words of Steve Jobs shortly after he returned to Apple, the company he founded and launched the Think Different campaign. He started things off with these words:

"Here's to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes ... the ones who see things differently -- they're not fond of rules, and they have no respect for the status quo. ... You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but the only thing you can't do is ignore them because they change things. ... They push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the people who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do."

I especially find his words fitting this week as we celebrate America’s small businesses & entrepreneurs and their enormous contributions to American life and prosperity. After all, we may not be able to imagine life without the contributions of one, Steve Jobs.

Celebrating National Small Business Week

The pandemic brought to light an important fact: the American entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well. It underscores the resiliency of our nation and our communities in the face of our largest economic challenge to date. Small businesses are not only the engines of our economic progress, but they are also the heart and soul of our communities. 

This year, during National Small Business Week from May 2-5, America will be celebrating our Main Street small businesses, our mom-and-pop stores, restaurants, shops, and small manufacturers who stayed the course during this difficult time for our great nation. 

Small Business Trends reported, "This year’s celebrations will include a four-day virtual summit in partnership with SCORE to acknowledge small businesses from across the country for their resilience, ingenuity, and creativity. In addition, events will be organized to recognize SBA partners for their support of entrepreneurial development, disaster recovery, government contracting, financial development, and others."

How can your business get involved?

Constant Contact posted on their blog, "Whether you own a small business, work for one, or just love supporting them, there are plenty of ways you can show your support and take part in this tradition."

They went on to share five ways you can take part in Small Business Week this year. You can find that HERE.

So, back to my Question of the Week: Is it necessary to change how to conduct business, adapting to the circumstances of the times instead of adjusting, revising which may be more akin to putting square pegs in round holes? Are we crazy to think different (as entrepreneurs, restaurateurs & small business owners), or should we just go with the flow?

Maybe we need a wrist band to remind us? What Would Jobs Do?

I'd really appreciate your feedback. So please, share your comments, insight and perspective in the comments section below.

About the Author

Paul Segreto is the Founder, CEO & Visionary Entrepreneur at Acceler8Success Group, a business incubator and accelerator for current and aspiring entrepreneurs. Paul has been recognized as a Top Small Business Influencer by Fit Small Business, as a Top 100 Global Franchise Influencer by SEO Samba & 1851 Franchise Magazine, and as a Top 100 Champion Small Business Influencer by Small Business Trends & Small Biz Technology. He has achieved professional designations including Certified Franchise Executive, Certified Franchise Broker, and Certified Business Broker.