I believe it’s important to give back. Our young people are relying on us to teach, inspire and motive them. As a business owner, you will do pro bono work when you are able. We all have to share our talents with others. We should not keep those treasures to ourselves. But, there is often that fine line or balancing act that we must juggle when we have to make a difficult decision.

As much as I believe in giving your time, talent and cash (if you have it), there are lessons that I have learned along the way. Of course, you know I am going to share a few. Please know that it is okay to say no. We all try, but we can’t always do everything all the time for everyone. It’s also important to stand up for yourself. There are folks who will try to take advantage of you. Remember this line my mother would tell me when I was a kid, “Don’t take my kindness for foolishness.”

As in life, I am learning (as a business lady), that not every job that comes your way is for you. You have to do what is right, for you, even when it may not be a popular choice. And that is okay. At the end of the day, you have to look at yourself in the mirror and live with the decisions you make.