Outward. Far too often as we approach challenges and attempt to find solutions we look inward and focus on what we can do within ourselves, our community or our country. This happened in the US at the turn of the last century and this was defined as “isolationism”.

When one takes this approach you exclude a whole range of options that might allow you to identify an even greater number of potential solutions. When each of us are faced with making such decisions the fact that you look abroad to other resources, such as capital, both in human and financial form, new ideas, people with greater energy and imagination, almost ensures that your solutions will be broader based, more focused, and likely, more successful. So as we all move forward let’s not forget to take the broadest possible view of the solutions that are available.

“For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin — real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life. This perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one. Happiness is a journey, not a destination.” - Souza

For more information, visit the SBA website at www.smallbusinessadvisors.com, call 295-7832 or e-mail dhhills@ibl.bm.