Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Negativity in Michigan

I would say this has recently come to light in Michigan but I would be lying. Michigan is an overtly pessimistic state whether that is due to lack of sunshine throughout the year or “old-timers” complaining about how things used to be back in the day when everyone had jobs at GM and times were great. Whatever the reason, this view of reality hurts the state. As recently as this morning, I read an article on mlive discussing how two brothers created a hangover cure. Comments from the readers were divided in thirds between the negative, the positive and the confused. The negative comments were the most disturbing not because they each began with a sentence about the product potentially being a hoax but that 85% of the prose was verbally attacking two people they didn’t even know on a personal level. This is what’s wrong with Michigan. This is not an argument on whether the product works or not but an argument on the support of their state. Michigan residents do not understand why young people want to move out of the state, well this is why. Young people want to do big things and change the game not be ridiculed for having the proverbially “balls” to change the game. It takes a lot to start a business but the hardest part is clearing through all the haters that wish they were in your shoes. I will say that there has been some positive light shining through the clouds in the last year but a few rays will not make Michigan a leader in the economy again. It will take the whole state to do this, from young to old.

2 comments:

  1. I disagree, Chad. We don't ridicule you for having the balls. And I don't remember reading anything in the press about other states welcoming young people and their ideas with open arms, and those young people then launching successful enterprises because of it.

    The discussion over why your generation is leaving the state is a complex one. There are a lot of theories and potential solutions floating around. Most, though, seem to focus on college grads hearing that they can't find a job if they stay in Michigan. And hearing from their friends who already moved away, how easy it was to find a job in _________.

    We want your ideas. We want your energy. We want to see you implement your vision and change the game. There are places right here in Michigan where that spirit is encouraged. Places like Midtown Detroit. If you haven't been to the city in a while, I invite you to come down and take a look around.

    I'd be happy to meet you for a cup of coffee and further discussion of the matter, and take you around the neighborhood to meet and chat with some of the business owners.

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  2. Dave, I believe you have a valid point about people moving out of state. It is easier to consider leaving when friends have already done it. When I mentioned there was some positive light shining through the clouds, I was referring to places like Midtown. The change that is taking place there is one of the reasons I stayed in Michigan and believe it has a chance to be great once again. My problem is there are not many places like Midtown in the state. I would be glad to meet up and learn more about the changes in Midtown and meet local business owners

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