Grit & Wisdom: Smart Advice from America’s Hardworking Small Businesses

Grit & Wisdom Featured Advice

IT’S THE SMALL IDEAS

Everyone’s looking for the next big idea. But I think most often, it’s not the next big idea that makes a business successful. It’s the solid execution of all the small ideas. Take care of the customer, deliver what you promise, and provide value. Solidly execute the small ideas, and you’ll see big results.

David Dvorak

NorthStar Tax and Advice - Florida

Grit & Wisdom Featured Advice

THE HEART OF YOUR BUSINESS

• H: Hear your customers’ needs.
• E: Exceed their expectations.
• A: Adapt based on their feedback.
• R: Retain through lasting relationships.
• T: Thrive together.

When you put HEART into your business, your customers’ success becomes your own. Happy customers are the heartbeat of your small business’s success.

Amber I

Maryland

Grit & Wisdom Featured Advice

THE ANSWERS ARE RIGHT IN FRONT OF YOU

Sometimes, you may feel like you need to know EVERYTHING running a small business. I quickly learned that’s not the case at all. In fact, all the answers are right in front of you – within your team, your network, your community, and your mentors. Lean into your resources full-fledged, and you will quickly realize the abundance of knowledge sitting at your doorstep.

Brooklyne B

Ohio

Grit & Wisdom Featured Advice

YOUR “WHY” IS YOUR WAY

Clarify your “why.” Understanding your purpose fuels passion and direction. Define why your business exists beyond profit—to innovate, solve a societal issue, or enrich lives. Communicate this purpose authentically to inspire employees, attract customers who resonate with your mission, and differentiate your brand in a meaningful way. This clarity not only motivates your team but also guides strategic decisions towards impactful outcomes.

Sherina M

California

Grit & Wisdom Featured Advice

EMBRACE LONG-TERM PLANNING

In the whirlwind of daily operations, don’t forget to cultivate the future of your business. Dedicate time at least quarterly to understand evolving customer needs, strategize growth, nurture partnerships, and innovate products and services. Balance the demands of working IN your business with the foresight of working ON it. Embrace the power of long-term planning and watch your business thrive amidst the chaos. The seeds of success are sown in the moments you invest in the future.

Anthony L

Florida

Grit & Wisdom Featured Advice

BE WILLING TO ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES

When you’re the boss, you’re not above any task. Being willing to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty can earn you the respect of your employees and customers alike. So, don't be afraid to be seen sweeping the floors. It shows that you’re willing to do whatever it takes to ensure the success of your business.

Sercan H

Washington

Grit & Wisdom Featured Advice

DO NOT FEAR FAILURE

Fail often. In order to grow, change, and continue bringing value to the market, you must not fear the possibility of failure. Do things that scare you. Do them knowing that, whether it’s a success or a lesson, you will be a better person and business for it. Lessons often teach us more than successes, so lean in and foster a space where failing is encouraged rather than feared.

Sabrina H

California

Grit & Wisdom Featured Advice

BE READY TO PIVOT

The best advice I’ve received is to pivot. When things aren’t working, you’re allowed to change and pivot to keep it alive. Even if that means pivoting your products, business, or branding, you can find new customers or a whole new customer base. We’re not stuck on one thing, one type of product, or one certain brand. You have to change and pivot to flex with the times.

Katherine S

Nevada