Some businesspeople simply do not know when they are beaten. It is these folks that often go on to achieve great things, for determination is something you cannot buy, but a commodity of great value in a time of financial decline.
The last year or so has been a particular test for small business owners all over the world. Some will have triumphed, some will have failed. CNN Money recently ran an article on a business that, while it has not yet triumphed, has very much survived.
The article, entitled 'Rebuilding from real estate rubble: With no employees and shattered sales, a home contractor retools to outlast the recession' focused on a company called PaverStone Design Group, a business that builds patios.
PaverStone is run by Isabel and Duane Draughon. The latter is a former marine, who insists that he never gives up – a fact proven by the company's maintained existence.
While the business has managed to survive the recession, it will have certainly been given a boost by the online PR generated as a result of the CNN Money article.
Mr Draughon got his never-say-die attitude from his time with the marines. He told the news provider: "It's probably the only reason I've survived in business. I will never, ever give up."
It is an attitude that the businessman has very much needed. Following the initial success of the business when he opened it in 2005, the good times ran out.
Revenues topped $500,000 in 2006 and then disaster struck. Mr Draughon's business partner left, taking with him a great deal of expertise.
Trying to continue with all his own duties as well as navigate his way through the responsibilities of his old partner, Mr Draughon overstretched himself and lost control of the business and was soon broke.
It was at this point that his determination to survive kicked in. He made deals with creditors and downsized the firm. Indeed so efficient was the downsizing that even the recession couldn't fold the company.
Mr Draughon's wife is now part of the firm, having given up her £45,000 a year job and things are looking like they will be ok, thanks to a focus on loyal customer base and, in no small part, one man's sheer dogged will.
© Adfero Ltd
