After leaving their corporate jobs, Noria Morales and Sarah Robinson opened The Wonder, a family-friendly destination that offers play space for kids and a lounge area for adults. "When we sent it to our small group of friends, many of whom are working mothers, it clearly resonated," Morales said.

Growth is a critical element in building a successful business, and Lyndsey Lang of Fattmerchant discusses the different strategies you can use. Bundling products to increase market penetration, forging strategic partnerships and participating in trade shows are all techniques to consider.

Mario X. Carrasco rounds up trends marketers should watch for as multicultural campaigns become the norm. Microtargeting, in-store purchasing and pickup options, and cultural relevance all play a part in reaching multicultural audiences, he writes.

Small businesses are being increasingly targeted by hackers, and it's important to understand the threats and have contingencies in place. Noting that nearly 60% of businesses that are attacked are forced to fold, Amanda Knaebel offers a list of ways entrepreneurs can better protect their digital assets.

Bridget-ann Hart, who recently retired as president and CEO of KPH Healthcare Services, says that employees need to have their fears addressed before the conversation can turn to what the business must do. "When times are good, you can lead people with their minds, but, when times are bad, you have to lead them through their hearts," she says.

To help stay on top of your responsibilities as a small-business owner, it's important to have a profit-and-loss statement. Among other things, information in the P&L document should include sales revenue, non-operating income, operating costs and taxes, writes Michelle Black.

There are a number of financing options for entrepreneurs with disabilities, writes Janet Gershen-Siegel of Credit Suite. Options include financing from nonprofit groups and loan programs provided by various states.

Change unwanted behaviors by identifying the positive value from a new way of thinking or behaving, then visualize yourself acting in that way and map out a strategy, writes Terry Watkins of The Ken Blanchard Cos. Watkins shares how she pushed herself to speak up early and often while continuing to listen carefully to others.

Jane Miller, CEO of Lily's Sweets, believes it's more important to focus inward to achieve key business goals than it is to compare yourself to others. "Really, if you are running a race, don't look at the time of the person next to you," she says, adding, "look at your own time and what was the goal you set for yourself."