This time of year, lots of growing business owners get the business blues. You know what I mean . . . It’s the end of the year, again. And you haven’t hit your goals. What did you promise yourself in January that would be different in business this year?
What kept you from getting there?
Maybe things got really busy, and you found yourself immersed in doing rather than planning or leading. Or maybe, you did make a move: you hired that salesperson, new project manager or admin . . . Or, you went after that big contract . . . and didn’t get the outcome you wanted. Perhaps you did didn’t set goals at all this year; You’ve been working really hard, hoping something would change, but not really sure what you were aiming for in the first place.
Either way, you’re kicking yourself and asking, “Now what?” because sales are off, cash is tight, or morale is low.
How do you avoid ending up right here next year?
It may sound simplistic, but effective planning is the answer. And no, I don’t mean writing a few half-formed ideas you’ll abandon well before Q2. I mean getting super specific about the outcomes you’re expecting, identifying the mechanisms that will get you there, and then outlining real and tangible performance indicators that tell you along the way if you’re winning or losing.
That’s how the big guys do it. Ask Warren Buffett or Jeff Bezos, and they’ll tell you: preparation is key. Sure, execution is critical, but without first setting a direction and getting crystal clear on the destination, you’ll end up off course every time.
So, what now, you ask? What can you do differently?
First, don’t give up. There’s a way through your current situation. Stay positive and keep your head up.
Second, get help. The best and brightest leaders—from Fortune 100 companies to small businesses—don’t rely solely on themselves to see the problems and know the solutions. They find a trusted advisor with whom they can bounce ideas, run small experiments, and collaborate. And I don’t mean your cousin in Atlanta who started that side hustle or the woman in your networking group who gives unsolicited advice. Your business deserves more, and this year is telling you that it’s not enough to follow that Instagram influencer. You need someone skilled in the art of calling you out and empowering you to be your best, someone who has delivered real results for countless growing business owners in your industry and others.
Finally, take action. It’s not enough to think about what’s next. You’ve got to make the commitment. That could mean investing in a new tool, hiring a team member, or applying for a loan. Not next year. But right now.” Yep, now is the time to do the thing that you’ve thought about but were scared to do.
Tired of the Business Blues?
If you are ready to breakthrough the business blues, give me call. Coaching with me can help you clarify your goals and create a roadmap to achieve them and then implement strategies to increase your revenue and overall business profitability.
Book your free Discovery Call today and let’s break barriers together.
