Darwin Was Right, In Nature and in Business
In his book, The Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection, Charles Darwin penned these words.
[A]s more individuals are produced than can possibly survive, there must in every case be a struggle for existence, either one individual with another of the same species, or with the individuals of distinct species, or with the physical conditions of life. ... Although some species may be now increasing, more or less rapidly, in numbers, all cannot do so, for the world would not hold them.
These words sum up brilliantly the constant interaction between and among businesses in a rapidly evolving global economy. And Indie Business owner Christopher Hazlett's current situation perfectly illustrates the importance of being adaptable in a changing market environment.
Hazlet founded Integrate Consulting in 2006, and by the end of 2007, it was generating income in the low six figures. But in January of this year, income plummeted to next to nothing. When you read Hazlett's story in Wednesday's New York Times, you'll see a perfect illustration of what Darwin wrote about. When Integrate Consulting's clients terminated their contracts, rather than fretting or selling his services at fire sale prices, Hazlett simply changed direction. He launched Event Clipboard, an event planning company, using the same skills and talents that made Integrate Consulting successful. Hazlett is excited about the positive feedback he's receiving from his first 50 beta testers.
Adapt, or Else ...
Darwin's conclusions could have easily referred to business owners like Hazlett. And like you. And like me. Don't sit around whining and complaining about your hard luck or the downturn in the world economy. Do what Hazlett is doing. Focus on your own economy. Tap into your talents, gifts and work history to adapt to the world as it changes.
Once you find your place, you have to always be ready to change it in order to adapt it to circumstances over which you have no control. Seize your own place. Wrestle it to the ground. As Darwin wrote, the world will not hold you if you don't.
What do you think?
Are you inspired by Hazlett's story? By how he refused to let the grass grow under his feet and instead, took the bulls by the horns and made something happen? How are you holding your place in this rapidly changing economic environment? Inspire us with some of your story! I know it will encourage a lot of other Indies today.
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