As a restaurant owner on the main street of Newport, Oregon she has been an active supporter of projects that beautify the historic business district. This is important because what was once a working port for commerical fishing has turned into a tourist destination. Had the city fathers and mothers not recognized that changes needed to be made, Newport could be a ghost town today.

Belinda Guadarrama, the daughter of a Mexican immigrant, is already an advocate for the many special programs for women and minorities. There are entire sections of the SBA dedicated to help minorites, women, the disadvantaged and veterans. Belinda is an informed advocate on these topics and spends time going to Washington DC and Sacaramento to speak with elected officials. She also take time to help other small business owners get through the processes to win government contracts.

Topic for Discussion: How do business owners find time to work on their entire ecosystems when their businesses are so demanding?

Answer: We find time because we have to and because we want to. Strong business owners know they are not operating in a vacuum. We know that everyone around us needs to be winning for us to fully realize the potential of our business. If you are bogged down in the trenches of your business and feel as if there is no light at the end of the tunnel, it is probably because you're staring at your own belly button. Take the focus off your own work and step back to see the big picture. Join an organization that is working to improve the climate in your industry. You will meet great people who will inspire and educate you and at the same time see everyone's business improve.

You think about it: What keeps you from working in your community or your trade association? What needs to be done to improve the business climate your operate in and who could help you get it done?