IT'S ALL IN HOW YOU LOOK AT IT

"An adventure is only an inconvenience rightly considered. An inconvenience is only an adventure wrongly considered."

Gilbert Keith Chesterton

Late 19th/early 20th century British journalist/novelist/poet

Not sure this will work as an explanation to stockholders concerning failed investments, but there is value in the thought as you make your way through business and career challenges.

That's Funny!

"That is the saving grace of humor, if you fail no one is laughing at you."

A. Whitney Brown

21st century American writer/comedian

Nor in business, certainly not your investors.

Treat every dollar of investment capital as if it belonged to someone else.

It does.

New Business: The Difference Between Dreams and Reality

"Spend not on hopes."

George Herbert
Early 17th century British poet

This could have come from a venture capitalist.

Investors understand the need to assume but the more successful ones also know the difference between well thought out plans versus hopes.

If you're starting a business, regardless of how you finance it, you need to as well.

Start-ups: Who Can You Bank On?

"A bank is a place that will lend you money if you can prove you don't need it."

Bob Hope
Comedian

The humor in this would not have been obvious just a few short years ago, but today?

So, if you're just starting your business and need money, where will you go?

Is it really all that bad that banks will not likely prove to be a good source?

Investment: Talking to Angels

"Angels are like messengers, but sometimes we misunderstand their language."

Linda Solegato
Author

Linda was likely referring to the heavenly type but the thought applies equally well to the investment version as well.

If you are looking for non institutional money to start or grow your business, learn the language of "angel" investors. If you do you will find it is as much if not more about what you will do for them as it is what they will do for you.

As it should be.