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small business briefing

The latest news and information for entrepreneurs from across the web universe, brought to you by the Report on Small Business team. Follow us on Twitter @GlobeSmallBiz

Almost half say year's business climate took toll on their health

Forty-four per cent of small business owners said that this year's business climate took a toll on their own health, according to a new survey from Manta, an online community for small business.

One in three -- 33 per cent -- said they are working out less, 22 per cent said they've gained weight or eat less healthy, and 14 per cent said they are more short-tempered and argue with family and co-workers, according to the latest Manta SMB Wellness Index, which surveyed 1,000 small-business owners. As well, 28 per cent said their stress had increased or their health had been negatively affected since starting their business.

They're also putting in long hours: 63 per cent averaged more than 40 hours a week, with 11 per cent putting in up to 70 hours and 8 per cent putting in more than 70 hours.

On the upside, 45 per cent said their business had a positive effect on their personal life. Nearly a third -- 31 per cent -- said they were happier, 15 per cent had more time for family and friends, and 8 per cent said their marriages had improved.

As well, 72 per cent said 2011 was a successful year for their business, and 89 per cent expressed optimism for 2012.

As for resolutions for 2012, 62 per cent want to grow their business, but 25 per cent want to improve relationships with family and friends, 11 per cent want to eat healthier, 6 per cent want to work out more and 4 per cent want to work less.

























Want to become an entrepreneur? Ten things to think about first

Sure, entrepreneurship has its allure. But there are many factors to consider before making the leap. At USNews.com, the Young Entrepreneur Council offers fledgling entrepreneurs " 10 things to ponder" before deciding whether to make the jump.

The name game: Ten ways to play it right

Naming your company is no frivolous decision: It will affect how everyone sees you, from customers to investors. HOw to pick the right name? On the HuffPost, veteran startup mentor Marty Zwilling offers 10 rules for picking a company name that sticks.

EVENTS AND KEY DATES

Seasonal celebration

The Ottawa Chamber of Commerce is holding an annual holiday reception this evening. For more details, click here

Business math 101

Get a better understanding of basic accounting and tips to maximize profits at a seminar being held at the Business Development Centre in Toronto. Among the tips to walk away with, the seminar will help you better understand how to report revenues, expenses and income, reduce personal taxes, charge for products and services, and keep better business records. The seminar takes place on Dec. 17. For more information, click here.



EDITOR'S PICKS FROM REPORT ON SMALL BUSINESS

Expand in uncertain times, or play it safe?

This week's Challenge: Aluminum Surface Technologies' planned warehouse expansion got put on hold when the global economic turmoil caused a major client to pull back. Now its founder is having second thoughts, wondering whether to go ahead with the expansion or wait until the economy improves.

FROM THE ROSB ARCHIVES

Cloud computing: right for you?

Been thinking of looking to the cloud? This four-part series explored cloud computing, to help you decide whether it's right for your small business.



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