How to Develop a Plan B

The baby boomer population is 78 million. The first of them begin turning 65 next year, 2011. By 2030 when the oldest boomers reach 84 years, there will be 69 million Americans will be over age 65. That is only 20 years away. How will these people support themselves? Men can expect to live another 22 years and women another 25 years. Again,how will they support themselves? Between 30%-50% say they haven’t saved enough to retire.



To make matters worse, the recent downturn in the economy has affected retirement savings further. Unemployment continues to remain high. People have used their savings to live on while being unable to get a job. Social Security can’t be relied on to provide a decent retirement income.



What can these people do? They can take control over their situation. Develop a plan B. Start a business. What kind of business? What industry?



Wellness has remained strong even during the recession. People still took care of themselves and their health. And, network marketing. People are joining network marketing businesses in droves, particularly in this recession.



What characteristics should you look for in a business?



The business should be counter-cyclical. It should do very well when the economy doesn’t. This is a real Plan B.



The business should still be a ground-floor opportunity—less than 100,000 distributors. The Harvard Business School teaches network marketing. They have developed stages of growth in network marketing companies. Companies reach critical mass—when they reach $50 million in sales. Distributors receiving $1000 in residual income see their income exponentially increase to $10,000 per month at the point of critical mass.



Residual income is important. It is truly financial security. You are paid for work you have done previously. You can decide to work more or less. You make the decision. You are in control.



The business should have a long-track record. Most companies fail in the first 18 months. And, it should have a consistent record of excellence. The management should be long-term.



The business should be a member of the DSA. The DSA is a watch-dog organization over the direct selling companies. You must be invited to be a member and subscribe to the highest ethics as a company. There are only 200-300 network marketing companies that are members.



The business should have a product that is unique. And, can be supported by independent research and government patents. It should be highly consumable-- provides continual business and repeat sales.



Most companies start a business then go out to find a product. They pay for manufacturing which is outsourced. The better situation is a company that was built around a product. They do their own manufacturing, allowing them complete control over the quality of the product.



The business you choose should provide free training and support. Mentoring should be available. Camaraderie should exist in the corporate culture rather than competition. The business should be about helping others and making a difference in the world.



The business should also have a high-quality System. A good system makes the business all the more duplicatible. Success is the result of "plugging in" to the system.



Make a choice to create a Plan B. Do your research, find something that is still a ground-floor opportunity, helps people, and provides mentoring and support. You deserve a stellar retirement!