Most of you are familiar with the stage play and movie entitled "Stop the World - I Want to Get Off!" written by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley. The show features Littlechap, who shouts "Stop the World" when life takes on too rapid a pace or things do not go his way.

Unlike Littlechap, today's entrepreneur is saying, "The pace of life is too slow," "It takes forever to make a decision," "Things are not going my way," -- "Start the world - I want to stay on!" Even though entrepreneurs have exciting goals and a high level of enthusiasm for the success of their venture, down and discouraging times will come their way. How do they hang on, ride the storm, and reap the rewards? Following are four key points that will strengthen your grip on your dream and help you navigate the inevitable troubling times:

Focus your Resources - Look seriously at the return for every dollar that is expended; use your time to get out and generate interest in your business; and use your creativity to explore options for capitalizing on the slow times.

Increase your Activity Level - make more calls; write more letters; attend more networking events.

Be Positive - be enthusiastic! It is contagious!

Be Persistent - success comes through putting one foot in front of the other no matter how rough the road. Do not give up!

You took a risk; you had the courage to take that first step; and you are still in the game. The world will start! STAY ON!