As we enter another year, ask yourself a couple of questions. First of all, are you going to stay committed to your resolution this year? And second, why have you finally decided to make a commitment to something that you could have started on July 1st last year instead of waiting until January 1st this year.
What makes this date any different? It’s just a day! It has nothing to do with timing. It’s really something deeper–something inside of you that simply holds you back despite your having the desire to be the best you can be.
And that’s the point I really want to drive home as we start this new year. Desire is simply not enough. It’s not enough in your personal life, and it sure isn’t enough in your small business. I’ll admit it’s a starting point, but at the end of the day desire is worthless without clarity about where you want to be, a plan of action and a firm commitment to yourself to follow through.
Here is a short list of seven popular New Year’s Resolutions for Small Business Owners, in no particular order. If you are already doing some of these religiously, good for you. If not, ask yourself why, and then make the commitment to take action and follow through!
1. Make the commitment to learn more this year
Whether you decide to enroll in a small-business class, or simply read a different book each month about business, a successful person, or personal development, you and your business will be the better for it.
2. Make business planning and strategy a priority
Just because your business isn’t a new startup, doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t spend some quality time planning and strategising for a successful year.
3. Increase your networking efforts
This is really a no-brainer! If this is on your list for this year, put the plan together on where, when and how and stick to it.
4. Better manage your work-life balance
The game of small business and entrepreneurship is stressful at times. Find ways to better manage your work-life balance. You and your family will thank you for it.
5. Find a way to serve, contribute, and give back
Isn’t this really what it’s all about anyway?
6. Hire a business consultant
Not someone who relies only on rhetoric but one who can help you really plan and implement quality strategy. Experienced, unbiased, neutral advice from a third-party is really invaluable to you and your small business.
7. Communicate more with your employees:
Find out the real reasons why they are dissatisfied, and do something about it. They will work harder for you, and be more dedicated to you and your company over the long term.
Use the following formula to rate yourself on the factors that are critical in achieving potential.
If you have an unyielding desire to succeed, a crystal clear vision for the future and an exceptional plan of action give yourself 10 of of 10 in each box. The closer you mark yourself toward 0 the less sure you are about that factor.
Now simply multiply your scores together and divide by 10 to get your change percentage.
If you want this year to be the best ever give us a call and we’ll help you get there.
Call us direct on 1300 933 074 or 0409 459736 to arrange your free review session.