By Rieva Lesonsky

If the results of the latest Wells Fargo/Gallup Small Business Index are any indication, small business owners are feeling pretty darn optimistic these days. The study found small business owners’ assessment of their businesses’ current situation and future prospects is the rosiest it’s been since the recession began in July 2008.

Small business owners in the survey felt pretty good about their current situation, but where they’re really optimistic is in their expectations for the next 12 months. They predict improvement in terms of their overall financial situation, cash flows, and credit availability.

Viewing the survey, I was reminded of the old saying, “Act the way you want to be, and soon you will be the way you act.” In other words, perception matters more than reality. Wells Fargo/Gallup survey notes that small business owners’ expectations for the future have more bearing on what they do than does their current situation.

I hope you’re feeling optimistic about your business’s prospects, but if you’re not, why not try acting as if you are?

• Invest in new technology instead of scrimping and making do with old, outdated equipment. It makes a huge difference.
• Think big and long-term. Start that project you’ve been putting off.
• Reward your employees—if not financially, with time off, flextime or other free benefits.
• Market your heart out. Reaching out to customers reminds them you’re still here to help them.

What would it look like for you to truly believe in your business and its future? If you’re not sure, a SCORE mentor can help. Visit the SCORE website to get matched with a mentor if you don’t already have one. I promise they’ll help you see the sunny side of life (and business).

Rieva Lesonsky is CEO of GrowBiz Media, a media company that helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. Rieva is a regular contributor to SCORE Small Business Success Blog. Follow Rieva at Twitter.com/Rievaand visit her blog at SmallBizDaily.com.

Reprinted with permission from blog.score.org.

To make an appointment and learn more about what SCORE OC has to offer, call 714-550-7369 or visit www.score114.org.

Consider joining a SCORE OC CEO Forum group to learn how other business owners manage their employees and outside sales personnel. These are groups of 10 to 12 small business CEOs who meet monthly and are facilitated by SCORE mentors. The groups collaborate, peer-to-peer, on topics, challenges and opportunities that are important to them. Interested? Find out more about the program at www.score114.org.

Happy Small Business Week! How are you celebrating?

National Small Business Week is an annual event that honors and empowers small businesses nationwide. This year’s event in Washington, DC starts today and lasts until May 26th. Speakers include SBA Administrator Karen Mills, Under Armour CEO Kevin Plank and Executive Director of the SCORE Foundation, Mark Dobosz. The SBA will also present South Palm Beach SCORE with the National SCORE Chapter of the Year award. South Palm Beach SCORE was chosen to receive this award from the SBA thanks to the strong relationships they have built in their local small business community. SCORE OC won this prestigious award in 2010.

SCORE is one of the events sponsors and SCORE chapters across the country are participating by holding events that highlight the importance and achievements of small business owners in their local communities. Also, the

Think about how you can take advantage to promote your business in honor of National Small Business Week. Make an appointment with a mentor to toss around some great marketing ideas! Call us at 714-550-7369