There are few jobs in the country as demanding and rewarding as being a small business owner. In our volatile economy, many small business owners work day and night to increase revenue, expand their market share, attract new customers and retain quality employees. In the quest to turn a simple business idea into a thriving business reality, many small business owners focus only on customer growth and revenues but fail to make adequate plans for the future.

As discussed last week, one of the major financial decisions both individuals and families must make in their lifetime is in regards to their life insurance needs. For some, the question might be how much insurance coverage is needed, while others might be more concerned about premium rates or flexibility with their coverage.

In any given year, there are a large number of financial decisions individuals and families make on a wide range of topics, including where to bank, how best to save for college, what investments to choose, and what kind of insurance coverage is needed. There are many research tools available to help you select a bank, college savings plans, investments and more, but when it comes to insurance decisions, the choices can be daunting.

When couples learn they are expecting a baby, there is normally an immediate rush to begin preparations for the happy arrival. Typical preparations can include everything from reading pregnancy guides, taking birthing and infant care classes, completing a baby registry or decorating a nursery. One important but sometimes overlooked aspect to planning for a new baby is to assess and adjust your current financial situation and future financial goals.

Summer brings with it a variety of special occasions, such as graduations, family vacations, breaks from school, and lovely summer weddings. Many engaged couples plan for months and even years in advance to make their wedding ceremony and reception just perfect, from the wedding dress, food, location, flowers and wedding cake. All the major and minor details that go into planning a wedding are important, but what is more important is the life you build together after the fanfare and celebrations are over.

Over the last few decades, there has been a noticeable shift in the way Americans make financial decisions and plan for the future. Instead of taking their time, conducting research and weighing all viable options, many people now opt for the quick and simple solutions, from selecting a bank to making major purchases and even planning for the future. Consumers are easily swayed by anything that will save them time and make their decision-making easier, even when it comes to financial planning and preparing for the future with their life insurance options.

In today's volatile economy, consumers across the county are looking for innovative new ways to save money and help their paychecks go farther. This can mean scaling back on entertainment expenses, carpooling to reduce fuel consumption, or buying groceries in bulk. One important, but often overlooked, way to save on your monthly expenses is to evaluate your current insurance policies and consider bundling your insurance policies together with one insurance agency.