Small Businesses Owned by Women Fares Better

Small businesses owned by women are faring better than small businesses owned by men, according to Count Me In.

Nell Merlino, CEO of the non-profit organization (which helps mentor and grow female-owned businesses) says women have to stop waiting for the world to change, and instead step out of line and make it happen. She has compiled a list of 5 key tips to help you run a successful business.

1. Start with the end in mind: Write down or cut out pictures of what you ultimately see for your business. The more specific you can be, the more likely you will be able to communicate your vision to others so they can help you get there.

2. Set specific, time-sensitive goals; write them down and post them where you can see them: Further hone your unique definition of success by determining the actual numbers, dates, dollar amounts or other specific markers you want to achieve. This way, you'll be able to mark incremental successes and celebrate when you've reached your ultimate goal. Vague goals produce vague results.

3. Expect and listen to resistance: Whenever you try to exchange and grow, you will undoubtedly experience resistance, fear and criticism from other people and from yourself. Anticipate this, listen to the concerns and have a strategy to incorporate the valid ones into your plans.

4. Get more opinions than your own: Confidence is a huge asset, but it doesn't replace the need to test your ideas and plans with other people. There is great value in seeking advice from people with more experience, less experience, different backgrounds, and various dispositions. Trust your instincts and do some market research.

5. See your life as part of a bigger picture: You are rarely the only one in the world who wants the life you want or has the dreams you have. Access the wider world of people with your interests and goals and use this network for support, encouragement and an occasional kick in the pants.

Count Me In is behind the movement, Make Mine a Million $ Business. The ultimate goal is to get 1000 women business owners to the million dollar mark. Women entrepreneur have a chance to take part in  NYC July 30-31. Women can win prizes including PR, professional coaching, access to financing, and more. http://www.makemineamillion.org/events.