Make a Resolution to Transform Our State

When most of us think of new year's resolutions we think of making personal changes, and often changes that make a bigger impact on ourselves than on others.  The quest toward genuine self-improvement is always a good thing, so go for it.

While you're at it though, and even if you aren't, how about a resolution or two to support the community and our neighbors?  If you're tired of waiting and hoping for a renaissance, then it's time to make some changes of your own, and be an active participant in Michigan's evolution. 

If you're not certain where to start here are a few ideas most of us can do... 

• Shift $10 or more of your weekly purchases to products from Michigan businesses.
• Volunteer a few hours a week or month to help sustain our community.
• Ask your grocer to clearly label produce and other products that come from Michigan.
• Contact your utility company and voluntarily purchase renewable energy to help grow this valuable industry.
• Look at wine and beer selections and ask your favorite restaurants and shops to carry more Michigan choices.  
• Visit a different museum, gallery or zoo each month.
• Buy from physical stores that employ our neighbors instead of online.
• Take your family on a Michigan vacation.
•  Look for the good news happening and spread it to all who will listen.
• Share the actions you take at Buy Michigan Now to inspire others.

Resolutions might be trickier for organizations, but here are some suggestions for actions that can ignite postive change...

• Make an effort to let consumers and organizations know that you are Michigan-based.
• Carry more Michigan-made products and label them clearly.
• Use Mich to Mich Opportunities to look for in-state vendors to compete for your business.
• Tell us when you expand, win awards, add locations, and hire more people so we can help spread your good news.
• Go after national recognition for your quality, innovation, or service excellence.
• Allow and encourage staff to volunteer their skills to serve the local community.
• List your business in the Michigan Blue Pages to gain new customers and/or help showcase our state's economic diversity.
• Expand to out of state markets to bring more money back.
• Coordinate with local schools and colleges to ensure a strong pool of home-grown talent.
• Collaborate with other Michigan businesses and brag about it in Mich to Mich Connections.

Oh, and if you haven't taken Our Pledge yet, it's a great way to get started.  So c'mon everybody, tell us what you plan to do to be a catalyst for change.  Share your ideas and actions.  We'd love to hear them, and you never know what or who you might inspire.