A business is primarily a means to produce income, but there is more than just money that defines a successful business. A business person is not just someone who runs a business. He or she is judged by his interactions with many people. Integrity is a major consideration with consumers and business partners. Before anyone starts a business he needs to understand what a business is, and how it impacts himself and others.

Over the past thirty years I have had the opportunity to view good businesses and bad businesses. I have experienced the blessings of the good and also the failings of the bad. The lessons I've learned from both types of companies have helped me understand what a business should be. With these thoughts in mind I have made the following comments on what a business is.

A business is the vision of its creator.

A business is the hopes and dreams of its investors.

A business is the daily bread of its employees.

A business is the trusted partner of its business associates.

A business is the integrity of those who manage it.

A business is a citizen in the community in which it operates.

and finally and most importantly

A business is a trust given by God to benefit all who have a relationship with it.

If those who manage a business have good products and services to provide and keep the above points in mind when making business decisions, I believe that a business can be a blessing for all involved.

Copyright 2009 J-me