My mind is going in a million directions right now. I’m not sure what to think or even what to write about concerning recent events in the stock market. It’s certainly hard to ignore.

As small business owners, the best thing I can do at this point is give you a few words of wisdom and encouragement during these difficult times:

Call in your financial power team.
Perhaps it’s time to take a good look at your overall financial situation. Call in your financial advisors, accountants, money managers, etc. to give you a report on how you’re doing and help you assess your spending habits.

Be frugal.
Saving is the key. I’m not telling you not to spend money, but I’m simply reminding you to save for a rainy day. If you don’t immediately need it right now, think twice before purchasing. It’s better to have some money in savings and be cushioned than to spend it all and have nothing when the rain pours. However, be sure you aren’t holding back too tightly. Sometimes you have to spend some money in order to make money.

Don’t obsess.
People at the news stations are paid to deliver news. They are all sitting in their comfy jobs and receiving their regular paychecks in exchange for giving you the economic news of the day. Always remember that fear and embellishment sells. I’ve lived through numerous hurricanes and have seen the way reporters grossly exaggerate reality on the ground.

There is still money floating around in the world.
People still need to buy and sell shelter, clothing, and food. Despite the economic situation, I’m guessing there are still long lines at the Disney parks and cars still parked at malls.

Market, market, market.
The difficult times are when you need to market the most. Don’t forget to market your business and be creative about bringing in clients.

Free stuff! Free stuff! Everyone love free stuff! Especially when it can help your business.

In the upcoming weeks, I’ll be giving away TWO free books right here!

I’ll be reviewing Influence: Science and Practice by Robert B. Cialdini

…as well as…

Prepare for the Worst, Plan for the Best: Disaster Preparedness and Recovery for Small Businesses by Donna R. Childs

Donna R. Childs will also be doing a guest post here at Entrepreneur Goddess!

Stay tuned for dates and more information on how to win the books…COMING SOON!

Last week, I spoke with the ladies of Women’s Global Network on Understanding Social Media. I promised to blog about basic Social Media for Business over the upcoming weeks and give tips.

SICK OF RECEIVING FACEBOOK EMAIL NOTIFICATIONS?

Now that your personal and/or business Facebook pages are set up, you’ve probably noticed the email account associated with Facebook has a tendency to fill itself with status updates of everyone you know on Facebook.

If you’re tired of receiving email updates, here’s how to change the account if you DON’T want to receive unwanted status email:

In the NEW Facebook:
-Click SETTINGS (at top right)
-Click NOTIFICATIONS
-Move down the list and choose what notifications you want to keep on and which you want to turn off.

It’s easy!