Being a business owner is tough in today's economy. Heck, it was tough before the economy tanked. It's even tougher now. Even tougher? Owning two small businesses in today's economy. Some days I'm not sure it is worth it. Maybe that 9 to 5 job would be easier. Nah. Who am I fooling? I did that, from the time I was 14 working as a carhop at my uncle's drive-in to my many years with Gannett in the newspaper business. I've had many bosses over the years - and remarkably enough I'm still friends with just about every one of them. Some, of course, have passed on. Or I'm sure I'd still be friends with them as well.
I like being my own boss - well most of the time. Some days are tough. Many days are tough. But I take things one day at a time and that's a good thing. If I looked out too far it would be so overwhelming that I would give up. It's funny because when I'm planting something in the garden, this philosophy just doesn't work. You have to look five or ten years out and see how big that thing will get! That's my only time to look too far into the future.
We did a survey this past month in All Things Country and many of our readers have returned one with their Abby Track entry. I'm amazed by some of the answers. They have changed the long-range plans of the magazine, that is for sure. Most people don't read it online. At least from the surveys I've gotten. In fact, I'd say it's running about 50% of our readers don't even have email. Most don't do social media. Meaning most of my readers won't even see this blog! I'm guessing that a transition to online-only would be a huge mistake. At least at this point in time it would.
Another interesting fact, most of my readers don't vacation in Kentucky. Very sad. They list the closest state park to their homes as the one(s) they visit. There are 52 state parks in Kentucky and most of our readers have visited one, maybe two. I'm guessing that marketing our state in bigger, outside publications isn't always the best thing. I have long believed that we have to have our local people visit our parks, recreation areas, lakes, etc. before we start inviting the rest of the United States here. But, that's me. And since I get very little advertising out of the State Tourism Department, I'm guessing they don't agree with me! But I won't give up! I still email them each and every month asking for an ad.
Most people like the magazine the way it is. That's a good thing. One wants more racing, and so do I. We've tried. We used to have Mountain Park Dragway quite a bit, but they decided on the national advertising thing. And Richmond Raceway, I can't ever find anyone there. When I do, they aren't the right people. And you can only take so many trips over there before the gas you've spent is more than they ad if they buy one. So, it's a double-edged sword.
What it takes is for you, our wonderful readers, to recommend us. When you visit a store that you think would be a good addition to our book, please tell them about us. When you travel, take your copy along to share with people. When you do business with your doctor, attorney or accountant, ask them if they've ever heard of us. We surely appreciate the shout outs - and if they take an ad, that's a bonus. When we visit new businesses, it usually takes several visits back before we can convince them to advertise. But, word of mouth does wonders too - and if you guys recommend us then it's double the pressure on them to consider us.
Well, I've cooled off enough to go back outside for another round with the weeds. Have a great afternoon and thanks for reading along. I appreciate each of you. Many blessings to you and yours.
The Pam person.....
