The Top 4 Small to MediumSized Business Trends in 2019

If you have set some big goals in your life, then you may wonder how to keep yourself motivated. The good news is that there are a number of proven ways to keep yourself focused and energized to reach the goals that matter the most to you. Here’s a look at five proven ways to keep yourself motivated and reach your goals.

1) Clearly define your goals

The first thing that you need to do is clearly define your goals. Saying, “I want a successful business,” or “I want to be rich.” is not motivating enough. You need to give your mind specific goals that can give it focus. For instance, if you want to have a successful business, define the business (Ex. I want to generate $1 million in annual sales with my cupcake business). If you want to become wealthy, set a specific dollar amount at a specific date (ex. I want to have $3 million in my bank account by January 1, 2030). This will allow you to have the focus and direction that you need to stay motivated and on track to your goal.

2) Choose goals that motivate you

On the path to reaching your goal, you will encounter roadblocks that will challenge your will to continue. The one thing that will get you passed those roadblocks are goals that matter to you. Therefore, you need to choose goals that will motivate you during hard times. What matters to you? Is losing weight really important or reaching a certain financial goal? Choose goals that you are willing to suffer and endure to accomplish.

3) Plot your progress

The most worthwhile goals will be long-term goals. Therefore, you need some motivation to keep you going. A great way to keep you on the road to your goal is to track your progress. For instance, if you are looking to lose weight, then keep track of the weight that you have already lost. This will give you the energy and the drive to keep going.

4) Set up checkpoints for your goal

Instead of having one big goal, create mini-goals that give you a sense of accomplishment more often. For instance, if your goal is for your business to have $1 million in annual sales, then set up goals to reach $100,000 in sales every 35 days. This will allow you to have a short-term focus that can motivate you to keep going.

5) Visualize your goals

Finally, you will want to visualize how your world will look when you finally accomplish your goal. Set aside 15 to 30 minutes a day to visualize your life after completing your goal. Create that feeling of happiness and content that you intend to feel. That positive energy will give you the drive to keep going.

Helping You Get to Your Goals

Reaching your goals can become a challenge. When your business needs a little edge, contact 2M7 Financial Solutions. We can provide your business with a merchant cash advance when you need it. Contact us today to learn more.

And The Winner Is...

The results are in. This year’s winner of the 2M7 Forward Thinkers Scholarship is Claire O’Brien. As a member of The University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business, Claire was able to overcome stiff competition in this year’s contest. To do so, Claire not only demonstrated a strong performance in her academic journey thus far, but also clearly  communicated a keen interest to harness the knowledge she acquired to this point, to succeed in the world of business as she moves toward her professional goals. Claire exhibited the enthusiasm, and aptitude that 2M7 Financial Solutions’ CEO, Avi Bernstein was looking to reward, and intended to encourage with the creation of this scholarship opportunity.

“Each year, university students face multiple challenges in their pursuit of their academic goals; and these stretch far beyond the classroom. Post-secondary schooling is extremely expensive and places a significant financial burden on those who attend, which can potentially negatively impact the studies of these students as they see to the financial obligations that arise with school funding. That is why I made it one of my goals to help lessen this burden: these students have enough “on their plate”; I want them to focus on what they are paying to study not on how they are going to pay for it. Claire’s essay not only exhibited her potential for business success, but also showed me a character that the 2M7 team strives to promote when we do business. Congratulations, Claire.

The 2M7 Forward Thinkers Scholarship is an annual scholarship that is available for post-secondary students studying in a business related field; and offers the winner a reward of $2,500 so they can better manage the expenses of their schooling. This year we had another strong applicant pool; and we encourage those not selected this year, to re-apply during next year’s contest, for their chance to get a generous amount of financial assistance. We at 2M7 would like to thank all those who participated in this year’s contest; and we wish all those that did decide to vie for this scholarship all the best in their future endeavours.

The business landscape is always evolving. In the last few weeks, the situation for many businesses in Ontario has changed drastically. You may be wondering where you can turn to find support in these challenging times.The good news is that there are plenty of supports for business owners operating in Ontario. If you’re looking for answers, try some of these tips and resources.

Federal and Provincial Support for Business Owners

Both the federal and provincial governments have announced funds designed to help business owners keep their doors open and their lights on during this time. If you’ve faced slashed hours or needed to lay employees off, then you may be eligible for business support funds.These funds could help you pay your employees during this time. Other funds are available to help businesses n Ontario manage their day-to-day operating expenses.

Check Government Websites for Resources

You may also want to look at the provincial government’s website, which has lists of programs and services for business owners like you. You can find one-on-one small business consulting and guidance, as well as workshops and more. You may also qualify for consultations with lawyers or accountants. Support is also available if you need grants, permits, or licenses. There are even resources to support mentorship and networking, available through Small Business Enterprise Centres.

Connect with Your Peers

Networking resources may be available through government-run resources. You may also find support through local small business organizations or trade federations. Even social media can help as you connect with your colleagues and peers.

Great Options for Creating Liquidity

In an uncertain market, business owners like you need financial options to help you create liquidity. Check in with your financial institution about measures they can provide to help you. You may also explore other options, like a merchant cash advance. The right funding options will help you create stability and flexibility when your business needs it most. Curious to learn more about your financing options? Get in touch with the experts and discover what a merchant cash advance could do for your business.