Without a plan, is it any wonder that many of us look back on lost opportunities or feel regret for those dreams that remain unfulfilled?
Life is not easy. It can sometimes be a battle but we have a greater chance of success if we have a plan which is written and which we stick to because we know it makes sense and we believe in it.
4. Pick your battles
It’s no fun being all things to all people and doing everything for everyone! Too many businesses try and do so many things because they have always done them.
An ingredient of a successful person is the ability to say no. To move on from activities that add no real value to your business or hold you back from achieving your goals.
As part of your goals and action plan for the rest of the year, I’d urge you all to list what you know you can stop doing for others or what restricts your personal growth.
It’s not easy, but an exercise well worth doing, that can both empower and energise you and your business.
5. Know who matters to you?
If you have your ideas written down you can then identify the alliances you need to establish to make your plan work. For every alliance you have or make, I’d give you this litmus test, is it a true partnership?
Does it reward both parties and more importantly does it either provide profit for your business whilst delivering a satisfying service for all your clients? If not, is it a partnership worth continuing?
6. Seek out help
The power of hearing the words “I can help you”, should never be underestimated. Effective networking is a key elements of success in life and business. When was the last time you reviewed your networking strategy?
Yes I said strategy because networking is a skill and like any skill it has to be practiced and refined even if you feel it comes naturally. A key part of that skill is positivity, as people tend to respond well to positive people.
No matter how you’re feeling, when you meet new connections, remember that people enjoy doing business with people they like. So smile and be happy.
7. Be your own best friend
A best friend is someone you can trust with your deepest secrets, rely on in moments of crisis and celebrate meaningful life events with.
But developing the skills to be your own best friend means you can rely on your own judgment and be your own source of comfort when you need advice or support. So why don’t you try this in 2017?
