5 Tips Learned From Grandma For Running a Business

Rules to Run Your Business and Your Life

Mama knows best … a familiar phrase? Well if mama is so clever, she must have learned from the Crockpot of Wisdom: Grandma.

Whether it’s perfecting her pot roast or how to run an effective and prosperous business, my Grandma Roxy has imparted her knowledge in more ways than one.

One hundred and five years of life has equipped Roxy with a plethora of tactics on how to survive and stand strong in the most unlikely of situations. Six wars, the Great Depression, civil rights movement, nuclear standoff, and countless scandals have been witnessed during Roxy’s life. I think it’s safe to say that there isn’t a curveball too sharp for Roxy to handle. Having recently celebrated her 105th birthday, we asked dear Grandma Roxy to share some of her secret tips about business.

Here is what we learned.

Work Smarter, Not Harder. It’s not about how hard you work, but how smart and efficient you are that separates the average from the peak performers.

A strong work ethic is a valuable asset, but the brain behind the labor is truly priceless. Being open-minded and willing to adapt is an incredible advantage in a business. Innovation and creativity are essential tools to keeping up with the times.

With more than a century under her belt, Grandma Roxy has learned to go with the flow while also remaining headstrong and true to her values. If you put your heart into your work, it will reflect in your outcome.

Be impeccable with your word, thoughts and actions. Honesty and follow-through are leading advantages not only in the business world, but also in your personal life. Never make a commitment you don’t intend to keep; always be on time; look your best; and live up to your fullest potential. Otherwise, you are cheating yourself out of excellent opportunities, however small they may be at the time.

Don’t take things personally. Do not create problems that do not exist; petty drama is your worst enemy, as it will hold you down and consumes your valuable energy. In the midst of trying to control everything around you, you will lose control of the most important tool, your mind. The only way to conquer a situation is based on how it is approached. Therefore, before reaching outward to attempt to grasp at the material, it is best to look within yourself and master your mind.

Have a positive attitude and be a team player. As the only woman who remained employed in her town’s bank in Wisconsin during the Great Depression, Roxy was greatly humbled and learned the true essence of gratitude. A positive and thankful attitude is a magnet for opportunity … and it’s contagious! The more motivated you are, the more willing your team is to follow. Work together for a greater purpose, and experience the trials and rewards as a whole.

Appreciation is the key to attraction.Simply taken, these rules hold a powerful place in both personal and business life — a solid foundation of morals and values that harbor the potential to excel.

To receive richly, give generously. No matter how much she struggled, Roxy never missed an opportunity to give to struggling businesses, charities, and anyone who may be in need.

“You never know where life will take you … one day you could be in a position of desperation praying for someone to lend a helping hand when you need it most. Treat others how you wish to be treated, and you will make your life a much easier place to live.”

Roxy’s wise words ring true from first-hand experience while struggling to maintain through the Great Depression.

My Grandma Roxy is still sharp at the ripe young age of 105 years old. She has enriched the lives of many with her lively presence. She continues to complete crossword puzzles, is an avid reader, hangs out with young people, frequents the casino, still loves to learn, and is forthright in her opinions and values. As she ages, her grace and wisdom is lovingly shared with her beautiful family and wonderful friends.