Businesses

It is no wonder my brain hurts.  I have been considering businesses, and I really don’t know if the conclusions I have reached are correct or not, but it is my take so far.
As far as I can tell there are a number of types.  One thing I know for sure is, every business sets out to be successful.  Judging by the number of businesses I see open and shut their doors, this is not always achieved.  I am always sorry to see a venture fail.  Sometimes it can cost heaps of brass in the trying.  Other businesses are basically fronts.  There is some other activity that is the primary one, and the shop front is exactly that – a front.
It seems some businesses do not just want to be successful, they want to rule the world.  Coke is a good example. Apple and Microsoft are others, and some franchises. Although this sort of business is not a favourite of mine, I am thankful for the effect they have on prices.  Also, if a number of people profit legitimately from their existence, I am happy.
Shareholders or investors are totally needed, but they seem to muddy the waters at times.  I have seen things that have remained the same price, but diminished in some way. Often the shareholder matters most.
Recently I was in a shopping centre.  I knew I could purchase 300 of something for $9.  The next time I was there, the 300 had disappeared.  From then on I could buy 100 for $7.  This company had the audacity to put an “on special” sign on the 100.  I heard of an Australian who invented a really efficient car engine.  It was bought by the powers that be and shelved.  Profits ruled over efficiency.
Then there are the Not For Profit (NFP) Organizations.  Their aim is to at least break even.  Some of these really want to grow, while others reach a certain size and are content with that.  It really seems to depend on what the leadership want, and if they are willing to put in the effort. I have seen both types. (Speaking of putting in the effort, there was a saying that is not used much these days, that “women don’t sweat, they perspire.”  Merril was quoting that, but only got as far as “women don’t sweat” and a good friend of ours piped up “they would if they put in the effort.”  I was so glad it was him that said that, and not me.  Merril was incredulous.  The look on her face made it so worth it.  Whenever we recall this we have a good laugh about it.)
I know a number of people who have successfully set something up, and made it a fruitful business.  One person I know works on a specific day.  The other days he rides his bike, has a coffee and reads the paper.  All the while the money roles in.  Good on him I reckon.  He risked everything to establish his business.
I take my hat off to anyone who has done their sums, and determined that giving something a go, is worth it.