Recently, I read a short article about the value and role of the roots and branches to the many beautiful trees we see each day.  I don’t know about you, but I love trees.  They provide shade in our hot Texas summers and add to the beauty around my house.  We live in a neighborhood full of trails with beautiful trees planted along the roads and walk ways.  It is refreshing to go for a long walk in the evening and just enjoy them as they wave in the wind.

But trees are also a metaphor of life and business.  We all enjoy the lovely branches with leaves waving in the gentle breezes of a summer day.  We give little thought to the root systems that are involved in keeping that 15-foot tree upright in the strongest of storms.  If we think of our businesses in those terms, we have to ask ourselves how deep are the roots that keep that business growing and thriving.

Just like a tree, our businesses have a public persona (leaves and branches) and the world sees the carefully constructed image or brand we have developed for ourselves and our business.  But how strong a wind your business can withstand depends a lot on the roots your have developed as your business has grown.

Has your business built a strong root system to withstand the next economic hurricane that blows through?  Do you have good products and services that people can afford?  Do you have a strong business plan that does not leave you over extended?  Do your customers like you enough to refer you?  Have you created those business relationships and alliances that can keep you going when times get tough?  Have you remained true to your purpose?

Laying a sound foundation (roots) for your business is one of the most important steps to ensure the longevity and growth of your business.  Many businesses just “take off” and because this is true they don’t take root to withstand economic storms.  Take time to establish solid systems and sound business practices to ensure your long-term existence as a business-owner.