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1 day ago | 
smallbiztechnology.com | Ethan Sterling
Ever notice how some "upper-middle-class" purchases scream, "I've made it!" - yet truly wealthy folks don't bother? It's not just about cost, but the mindset behind it. While the genuinely rich might live more discreetly, families climbing the social ladder often splurge on items they think broadcast success. They assume everyone will be super impressed, but ironically, those with real wealth aren't.
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1 day ago | 
smallbiztechnology.com | Ethan Sterling
I've often heard it said that money changes people. Others say no, it doesn't-it simply reveals whom they've always been. I'm not entirely sure there's only one truth, but I do know this: once the paychecks start climbing, certain folks show a side of themselves that was never quite visible before. Some become more generous and supportive-others? Not so much.
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3 days ago | 
smallbiztechnology.com | Ethan Sterling
We all have those weekends that slip by without much to show for them beyond binge-watching a new series or scrolling social media. Yet there's something exciting about the idea that, with just one of those weekends (and not much cash), you could get a small business up and running. You don't need a massive bank loan or a fancy office-just a hundred bucks, a dash of creativity, and some good old-fashioned hustle. What follows are eight suggestions that can be launched with minimal resources.
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3 days ago | 
smallbiztechnology.com | Ethan Sterling
You've probably heard the saying, "money can't buy class." Yet scroll through Instagram for five minutes and it's clear plenty of people are willing to test that thesis with a credit‑card swipe. I get the impulse-I've fallen for it myself. When my first startup finally turned a profit, I celebrated by dropping half a paycheck on a watch I thought would scream "arrived." Spoiler: nobody cared. Real class isn't loud; it's effortless.
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5 days ago | 
smallbiztechnology.com | Ethan Sterling
In the world of marketing, there's a significant difference between just getting by and truly excelling. That difference? It's all about how you use your time. As an entrepreneur, every minute counts. With a plethora of tasks to complete, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. But smart marketers know that automation tools can be a game-changer, giving you back those precious hours every week. These tools are not about replacing your skills or creativity but enhancing them.
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1 week ago | 
smallbiztechnology.com | Ethan Sterling
Jack Ma is one of those folks who rose from humble beginnings, got rejected a bunch of times, and eventually turned his vision into a global powerhouse. It's not every day you come across someone who was turned down for dozens of jobs, including a KFC gig, and then went on to become one of the richest entrepreneurs in the world. So, what's his deal? Why has he been able to navigate challenges that leave many of us stuck? Today, I want to unpack five secrets Jack Ma swears by.
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1 week ago | 
smallbiztechnology.com | Ethan Sterling
I've seen this scenario too many times. Someone grinds away at their job, logs endless hours, and yet, at the end of the month (or sometimes even the middle), they're left scratching their head, wondering where it all went wrong financially. I used to think working harder automatically translated to making more and keeping more. Turns out, that's not always the case. It's not just about how much you earn, but also how you manage (or mismanage) your money.
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1 week ago | 
smallbiztechnology.com | Ethan Sterling
It's tempting to chalk it up to luck or innate talent, but there's more at play here. Research shows that certain thought patterns and mental habits can make a big difference in how we approach goals, handle stress, and stay focused. These aren't complicated strategies reserved for geniuses or gurus. They're simple practices that can become second nature-so much so that highly successful people might not even realize they're doing them.
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1 week ago | 
smallbiztechnology.com | Ethan Sterling
When it comes to money, you might think you've got it all figured out. After all, you've got your budgeting apps and digital investments, right? But there's something to be said about the tried and true financial wisdom of the Baby Boomers. Now, I'm not saying they had it all perfect. But, these middle-class Boomers certainly knew a thing or two about managing their finances. And whether we like it or not, us Millennials could stand to learn a bit from them.
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1 week ago | 
smallbiztechnology.com | Ethan Sterling
Leadership isn't always about being the loudest in the room. Sometimes, the most potent leadership qualities are the ones that aren't immediately noticeable. Quiet behaviors often reveal a leader's true strengths-behaviors that allow for personal growth, encourage team unity, and foster an environment of respect and trust. As a leader or aspiring leader in today's dynamic digital world, recognizing these subtle qualities can be a game-changer.
