Yes – there is a solution to the DC mess and it’s fairly simple.
“If it’s so simple, Barb, then why don’t you do it?” you might say.
And I would answer, “Because it’s hard. Simple, yes, but hard. Very hard. And no one can do it alone.
But before I describe the simple solution to you, let me give you an example:
Someone I know… let’s call him “Fred” … has been posting on Facebook with anger fueled remarks about the current state of affairs in Washington, DC. Fred is furious and says he feels called to speak his mind. He makes broad generalizations about politicians and political parties and rarely ascribes anything but sinister motives to one particular side of the aisle. Fred has never been involved in politics or public service but believes he cannot stand idly by and is now called to post his opinions on Facebook and share them with his “friends.”
Perhaps you know someone like Fred and have wanted to “unfriend” him on Facebook. Is that really the best way to deal with folks like Fred?
Unfriending Fred may keep you from having to look at his vitriolic verbiage and make you feel better, but it won’t really make a difference.
There seem to be a lot of folks like Fred out there today. Fred is really a good guy and truly believes he is doing something to change things, but his angry posts offer no solutions. The truth is, he really doesn’t want a dialog. He wants to express his frustration with the status quo.
Like Fred and many small business owners, are you unhappy with the gridlock in Washington? Who isn’t?
Are you worried that small business is being pushed aside in the deluge of information overload? From social media posts to news media outlets that seem to cover few of the issues important to your small business, there’s much to be worried about.
Are you worried that the next election will bring with it a Congress that cares not for the problems you face?
So, what can you – one small business owner – do about it? Believe it or not, you can do a lot! You can truly make a difference if you join with other small business owners and make your voice heard. Whether you know it or not, you are in the fight for the life of your business.
So, what can you do that is so darn simple?
Become an activist small business owner. NFIB is fighting for you every day but we need your help. You can respond to posts by the “Freds” on Facebook or create your own posts, but to produce actual change and real results, we need members like you to step up and become engaged activists for small business.
So, what can one small business owner do?
Here’s a list of ways you can become an activist small business owner:
Follow NFIB at NFIB.com and know the issues that directly affect you, your family and your business.
Get to know your state representative, state senator and local elected officials. Let them know where you stand on key issues….and do it often.
Get to know your Congressman and US Senator. Call them. Write to them and let your voice be heard on issues that are important to you and your small business.
Attend NFIB meetings and take advantage of the opportunity to network with state and federal elected officials.
Vote your NFIB Member Ballot… both state and federal.
Participate in town halls in your area and attend debates.
Tell your employees about the challenges facing your company and identify the candidates that are pro-small-business.
Consider running for office yourself. We need more small business owners in the Indiana General Assembly and in Congress.
Financially support candidates that support your small business.
Contribute to the NFIB PAC, state and federal, and know your support is going only to pro-small-business candidates.
And most importantly……
VOTE! Vote in every election: Primary, National and Local elections
So that’s it. The solution is that simple. And… it’s that hard. But your business and your family’s future depend on it.
PS: In case you’re wondering….. “Fred” is my husband.
Barbara Quandt Underwood
NFIB Indiana State Director
If you have questions about legislation or an issue that is of particular interest to you, please don’t hesitate to contact me by phone at 317-638-4447 or by email at [email protected].
Thank you for being an NFIB member!
Barbara Quandt Underwood, NFIB Indiana State Director
317-638-4447
[email protected]
