All across America today, a revolution blossoms. There are no megaphones. No deafening shots are being fired. But anyone who’s listening can hear the continuous drumbeat of small and independent business owners defining and creating wealth on their own terms. They are starting businesses, not solely for financial gain, but also to enjoy the benefits of entrepreneurship, independence, flexibility and fun.
In towns, counties and cities across America, they are pledging an oath of allegiance to a new kind of life. They are a revolution and they share a common vision for their personal and professional lives. I have taken the liberty of summarizing it in the form of The Indie Business Pledge:
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I will use my talents and gifts to provide valuable products and services, and sell them at a fair profit to a specifically defined customer base.
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I will spend conservatively and invest wisely so I can use my business as a wealth building tool.
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I will proactively manage my business by minimizing the use of credit and maintaining independence from control by any third parties.
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I will use technology to maximize the earning potential of my business.
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I will commit to investing a portion of my profits in retirement accounts and college savings plans for my children and/or young family members.
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I will positively impact my family legacy by empowering my children and other family members to use their talents and gifts to generate income so they need not be solely dependent on a traditional job to secure their future.
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I will actively support and encourage other families to start and manage profitable businesses so they can enjoy the freedom and flexibility that comes with owning your own business.
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I will develop relationships with business colleagues and the media in order to spread the word about the benefits of my products and services.
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I will serve my customers with integrity, dignity, fairness and honesty.
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I will give of my time, talent and money to help strengthen my community and make the world a better place.
Indie Is For Everybody
The Indie Business Revolution knows no color. It knows no race, no religion, no gender, no sexual preference and no creed. It is no respecter of social class and it doesn’t care what side of the tracks you are from. Indies are rising up everywhere, to harness the power of their God-given talents, gifts and passions so they can maximize their potential through small and independent business ownership.
Question: What do you think? Have you taken the Indie Business Pledge? Why or why not?