Los Angeles – 71,000 grocery workers from the United Food and Commercial Workers union began a strike yesterday that involves over 900 stores from Bakersfield to San Diego. The reason for the strike is a dispute over what (in this writer’s opinion) amounts to about a dollar a day over the next two years for most workers.

I don’t want to argue who is right or wrong, but I do want to point out the fact that striking won’t make anyone wealthy. Jim Rohn, who is called ‘America’s foremost business philosopher’, says that going on strike can get you pennies, but it can’t make you rich.

For all the energy – emotional and physical – that you would put out to fight with your employer, you could be investing in something worthwhile, like your future.

Here are some of the ways we suggest you work to improve your situation:

Focus on ways to make the company more profitable – Not only will you be personally rewarded for your efforts; you’ll learn a lot more and help the company avoid the need to ask for concessions. Imagine how profits would turn if everyone had this attitude.

Ask yourself, "How can I improve me?" – What areas are lacking in your ability to perform your job? Are there any courses you can take or skills you can learn that automatically provide an increase in your income?

Make an investment in the company – Does the company you work for have stock? If so, buy some. The fact that you have a vested interest in the profits of the corporation will cause you to look at the business from an owner’s perspective rather than that of an employee. It also gives you voting power!

The main idea is to invest in your work, rather than attempt to "strike it rich".

Your thoughts and opinions are, as always, greatly appreciated!