It can be challenging for small businesses because there are so many factors that go into successfully building a brand and business. Even larger companies struggle to grow and move in profitable directions. Small businesses don't have the advantage of larger companies in having additional resources and money to weather the tough times. Building a business in the world today requires much more than simply opening the doors and making sales. It takes understanding, time, effort, and the ability to create systems that are able to produce results time and time again. Focus on quantifying what you are currently doing, and ways to improve the bottom line on a regular basis.