"I have noticed in these few short months in business, the cyclic nature of feast or famine.  When it's not so busy, I feel vulnerable which in turn gives rise to fear and insecurity.  On the other hand, when it's really busy, it can be overwhelming and am subject to overconfidence, which can lead to boastfulness, greed and overspending if not careful.  Being conscious and aware of both these extremes helps to mitigate the effects.  Other contractors who have been in business for some time, reassure me that this is not unusual and not to be put off by it too much.  So when it's not so busy, I can focus on truck and equipment maintenance, purchase of materials, ensure the books are in order and updated, maintain home life and follow up on customers who have made inquiries or needed help in some way.  And when it seems too busy, I try to focus on just staying organized, slow down and get one job done at a time with attention to detail.  This has helped enormously in maintaining a kind of balance without losing control." Dave McVittie, Dave's Tar & Feather, Port Sydney

"I feel very fortunate to be part of the SEA program.  I have a better understanding of what it takes to run a business.  I thank the staff at BERN for the guidance and patience they extended to the participants, giving them the best opportunity to operate a successful business.  I would highly recommend this program to anyone who is thinking of starting their own business."  Betty Thompson, Thompson Stewart Bookkeeping Services, New Lowell

"This program has changed my life.  Owning my own business is the second best thing that has ever happened to me besides meeting my wife.  It has been a wonderful opportunity for me to better my life and again I would just like to say thank you."  John Wayne Campbell, Blue's Small Motors, Orillia

"Not only did the SEA program give me the business management skills necessary to start a small business, it gave me the confidence to succeed."  John Garner, Land of Lakes Contracting, Huntsville

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