We all know there are only two certainties in life... death and taxes.
But, at this point in 2022, there appears to be a third - dismal news about the prospects for UK firms in the media.
Clearly, things are challenging right now.
Following the Pandemic, the supply chain concerns and inflationary pressure emerged, both exacerbated by the war in Ukraine.
It's certainly given headline writers plenty of fodder, with City AM predicting a 'profit crunch as inflation strikes' and then implying that small businesses are facing a cost 'attack'.
Not to be outdone, the BBC reported that there had been a 'significant increase in the number of organisations at danger' and that UK businesses were facing a 'perfect storm' as a result of the recent tax increases.
Even the CBI chimed in, claiming that businesses will 'require assistance to get through the summer'.
At this moment, any rational businessperson would adopt the only reasonable course of action: close the doors and sell the company.
It's worth noting, though, that journalists are not business owners.
They have different perspectives on the world.
The Chinese character meaning crisis, according to legend, is made up of two additional characters: danger and chance.
In my view, that isn't correct but, like other clichés, it has some truth.
Yes, supply chain issues exist...
But does this offer a chance to bring manufacturing back to the United Kingdom?
The management phrase for this is're-shoring'.
Yes, profit margins are under pressure.
But, instead of writing articles about it, businesses will examine their budgets and key performance metrics and take whatever steps are necessary.

It's worth noting that the FTSE-100 index of major equities has held up well in the face of adverse news, including the war in Ukraine and media reports. The FTSE held its own in April, with a slight gain of 29 points.
Major stock markets in Europe, the United States, and Asia all declined.
So perhaps the news isn't as horrible as the media portrays it.
We work with some fantastic firms and are happy to be financial planners for both limited corporations and single traders.
According to anecdotal evidence, many of our SME and self-employed clients are hopeful about the future.
They're obviously working hard, and we'll do everything we can to help them, as we always have.

To get in touch with Future Life Wealth Management's team, click HERE.