With more companies firing that hiring, people everywhere are unleashing their inner entrepreneur in hopes of surviving the economic downturn.

The Theory of Entrepreneurial Evolution states that a person with a great idea, exceptional business plan, and unique marketing style can survive even the toughest of times.

It really is the survival of the fittest.

What are you doing in business that is exceptional and unique?

Find out what these women are doing to survive:

Tapping Business Skills That Already Exist
It wasn’t the economy, but culture shock that influenced Donna Young and her sister to start their (now successful) export/retail business.

Want to confirm that your idea is really as hot as you think?
Entrepreneurs bounce business ideas off bar crowds
Start pitching ideas and receiving feedback at unexpected places. If your idea turns out to not be so hot, it’s better to find out sooner rather than later.

On a daily basis, or so it seems, I’m inundated with requests to volunteer, donate, or give back in some way or another. From donation canisters at checkout stands to Girl Scout cookies and wrapping paper at my door, the requests seem to be never ending. You help and turn around only to find another request.

As human beings on this planet, especially in such fortunate positions (we are, after all, using the internet which is more than most can afford) it is vital we give back to our communities and world.

Because the guilt factor can be so strong (it’s really impossible to give to everyone), it’s important to find your style of giving. Are you most comfortable spreading your pocket change out among various people and organizations or do you prefer pooling your resources (time and/or money) into one specific area? Both are great ways to help, just know your style.

I enjoy the art of giving and have donated thousands of my own hours and money throughout my life. Sometimes we can get so wrapped up in giving that we forget about our own needs. I’ve seen businesses close because the owners are a bit too generous. If a business closes because they aren’t getting by, they are helping far fewer people in the end because their efforts are not long term and sustainable.

The Lesson: Businesses need a PLAN FOR GIVING.

What have you accomplished in the first week of the New Year? Are you living up to your own expectations and resolutions so far?

I’m trying a combo of planning/action. You see, I have great business expectations for the year and that takes time to map out. I spent the last two months of the year trying to keep my head afloat while business grew at a rapid pace.

I have my general plans laid out, but broad ideas need action steps and that’s what I’m doing now.  Here’s a brief look at part of my action plan for the year:

General plan: Increase profit by __%

How:

1. Find new clients through attending ___ and ____ networking groups on a regular basis. I have had success with doing business with these people before, but I can increase my profit by:

a-improving my follow up- emails, finding out more about their business, and how we can do business   together (or who I know could do business with them).

b-being a speaker at the events.

2. Cut down on extra costs by being more selective about who I meet in person for drinks and meals as well as my networking groups.

3. Begin group workshops to inspire and teach people how they can do quite a few steps by themselves without paying big bucks for a professional.

….and the list goes on and has a bit more detail, but you get the point. Are you inspired to do your own?

Check out this blog post to get you started in this area: Do you have a social media plan for 2009?