So we all know about what’s happening in the economy right now like the U.S. deficit exceeding numbers never seen before, the housing market slowing down and some businesses closing. What we must NOT do is to succumb to fear which leads to spiraling into catastrophic thinking. It’s not healthy and does nothing to improve our situation.

I live in Portland Oregon where the majority of people I meet are creative entrepreneurs - take an idea and transform it into a business. I’ve seen a few businesses close over the past several months but I’ve also seen many more succeed. And the successful businesses all have three things in common - they stay positive, believe in what they are doing and offer their clients value.

A few days ago I got an urgent message in my inbox from Ladies Who Launch-one of the most successful women’s networking groups in the nation where some of its members have been noted in Forbes Magazine’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women—explaining how some of the organization’s investors were pulling out and the company was experiencing a temporary squeeze.  I stayed positive to the best of my ability. In our current economic climate where fear spreads faster than wildfire and more people are afraid of failing, I felt compelled to comment on how this is not the case for all of us and as long as we continue to take care of ourselves, our surroundings and move ahead with value in ourselves and our businesses, we’ll be just fine, thank-you.

Over the past week I noticed some interesting interactions in my meetings with business creatives, new individuals and even with my eye doctor. The differences in opinions on the economy and the level of fear present were vast.

For example, as my eye doctor dilated my eyes for an exam, she spoke of people’s anger and then went on to list the many negative things about the current state of affairs. I let is wash over me not allowing it to penetrate my psyche. I could see her fear translate into creating drama around a very improbable glaucoma diagnosis and advised me to purchase a $125 exam for further investigation. Sounded fishy to me and not worth any value. I think I’ll get a second opinion. (And by the way, I’m not worried.) I could also see her taking that negativity into her personal life.

On the flip side, other businesses that I met with like interior design and fair trade rugs (and yes they are expensive) were seeing an upswing in sales. The individuals I spoke with chose to remain positive, flexible in a changing environment and open to new ways to meet their clients’ needs.

Every day I research new ideas and meet with entrepreneurs who make a positive difference with their businesses. My committment is to continue to explore the possibilities and provide you with inspiring true stories. If you think you are one of those people committed to change and are passionate about what you do, let me know. I’d like to hear from you. And to you, my readers, thank-you for continuing to check in. We always appreciate your comments and feedback. Help us continue to keep it positive.