The other day I went into drug store and was standing at the counter to ask the gal where I could find a certain type of aspirin. She was on the phone apparently talking to someone she knew. She looked up at me and didn't even acknowledge I was there waiting. The pharmacist was busy filling an order and totally ignored me. I waited until she was off the phone and she walked over to the pharmacist and then left out the back door, leaving me standing there.

I have been sending my blogs out and participating in some business forums and people are always using these abbreviations. I also see these on instant messages that I get. For example, I get the following all the time: LOL BRB DQMOT IDK just to name a few..Can you help me understand this new internet language.

Fred: I'm LOL(laughing out Loud) is a common term that is used all the time in emails, IM(Instant messages) and on the forums.

I have been struggling with several issues with my business and desperately need help. One of my friends told me that I should join a Mastermind Group. Do you think this would help and how do I go about finding one?
Fred: Hey Lyna, this letter is right up your alley. I didnt even know about this concept until you mentioned we should join one for our business.

Fred: Many people use the terms selling and marketing interchangeably- but they are not the same.

Lyna: This is common mistake made by many new as well and experienced business.

Fred: Lets take a look at each of these in details. First- marketing is how you are going to generate leads and attract potential customers and clients.

Do you want to be in business for yourself or by yourself?

Franchising may be your alternative to starting a business from scratch.

Dear Fred and Lyna:

For the past 20 years I have worked as an account executive for a major soft drink company, and frankly., I am sick of it. I have been looking into owning my own business and have run across several franchise opportunities.

Do your homework or you may not make the grade!

Fred: We recently received the following email from one of our listeners:

Dear Fred and Lyna,
For the past 20 years I have worked as an account executive for a major soft drink company; and frankly I am sick of it. I have been looking into owning my own business and have run across several franchise opportunities.

You are never too old to start a business

Fred: Last night I met a lady in her 50s who recently retired from nursing and moved here to Asheville. Yet shes not ready to just play all day. She wants to start a business that can help others in some way.

Lyna: You know Fred, just recently the AARP report said that 80% of the Baby Boomer Generation plan to work after retirement and many see the advantage of starting their own business.

Fred: The holiday season is here and everyone is thinking about shopping for presents, getting the house decorated and helping those less fortunate. Why is it that some of us only give back this time of year?

Lyna: As I listen to the old Christmas songs that are played year after year; a phrase is sung that gets my attention: "It's my favorite time of year- the time we spread good cheer".