As I reflect back on my early days in franchising, I recall the many seasoned franchise veterans advising me on how difficult it truly is to maintain positive relationships with franchisees because of the nature of the business relationship. After being a franchised operation for ten years now, I realize that it is similar to raising a child- early on they completely depend on you, followed by the adolescent independence phase, followed by the ‘you don’t know anything phase’ and finally to a point of mutual respect and acknowledgment. This is all true but in my experience, I have found that

franchisees need to know that you care and are listening before they care what you think.

In the end, it is like politics and religion- no matter what you pay or do, everyone is not going to agree with you. What experiences have you had as a franchisee, franchisor, or even as a customer?

Susan G. Komen’s 20th annual Race for the Cure was this past weekend in Atlanta, and our Pink Pole Balance Walking team took part in the exciting event to help raise awareness… they even captured some great footage along the way-

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All my life I have searched for advisers that would share their knowledge and experience with me.  I also believe in giving back, so I too have openly shared my knowledge and experience in many ways.  Giving back is a single pleasure in life that will not only make you feel good but will help make the world a better place.

Motivational articles and speakers are great and for many it is just a validation of what you are already doing or should be doing.  Why this topic today? I had the pleasure of attending an event the other night to see a very successful motivational speaker. This speaker was very good and very entertaining but the question I kept asking myself- am I learning anything new? I mean really new?

For me, it was a validation of many of my beliefs but my path and desires were very different than the speaker.  At the break, I decided to leave the presentation after purchasing one of the speakers books.  Headed home early that night so I could spend some time with my daughter before she went to sleep.  My experience and suggestion- read what interests you, attend seminars that are meaningful, and adapt what is right for you and your family.

Remember, time is the only thing that you can only spend once.  Spend it wisely!