Many of us were taught this concept either in Sunday school or by a loving parent, grandparent, guardian, etc.

A truly successful endeavor should always have this mindset at the forefront of its mission. Consider others more important than yourselves.

A business also follows this teaching well if it realizes that its customers pave and pay the way. The owners and employees of the business can carry out their individual callings of raising a family, serving in places of faith and in the community.

We must never forget our customers, but quite often, we do. Take a moment to reflect on who your customers are and how much they do for you, your employees and your family.

We at Greater Fayetteville Business Journal would like to let our founding sponsors and advertisers know how thankful we are for their support. We are also extremely thankful for our readers and subscribers.

We seek to bring you actionable and relevant business news and information. When we do this well, we are serving others more than ourselves.

Thanks for all the emails, phone calls and comments. They have been very encouraging. I am also extremely thankful for the team that is coming together at Greater Fayetteville Business Journal.

Personally, I am humbled to be a part of this endeavor with each of them — to help shine a light on our business community and region. We are working extremely hard to deliver relevant content.

We could use your help, as well.

If your business has anything you believe is newsworthy, please let us know by emailing editor@bizfayetteville.com. Help us continue serving our customers by shining a light on our business community and region.

In closing, I have to say that I am not pollyannish enough to believe that all perceivably successful businesses serve or treat others (their customers or employees) as more important than themselves (the owners).

Success has to be defined. I try to align my definition with the One who taught us to consider others first. His small enterprise of 12 appeared to be a failure, initially, but after a couple of millennia, with an organization of 2.4 billion, and counting, I’d say that’s a great example of success to consider.

God bless you and yours.

Marty Cayton is the publisher of the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal.