Have you noticed there are some business owners who just seem to get it right every time? It seems like anything they touch turns to gold. How do they do it? What’s that magic formula that finds them so blessed, while many other entrepreneurs continue to struggle?
For most successful people, it’s as simple as this: They have a plan. They write down their goals, and stick to them. Goals force practical steps into your life that help make your dreams come true. If you haven’t tackled your business goals for the new year, here are some ideas to help you get started. Remember, they’re only suggestions. For your goals to truly work, they must be yours.
1. Get your finances in order
Want to know the number-one reason small businesses fail? Poor accounting. If you don’t keep up with it, you’ll sink like the Titanic.
But that’s just the start. You can’t rely solely on a profit-and-loss statement to see what’s happening with your business. You need a realistic budget that forces you to address the present while planning for the future.
2. Commit to a better hiring process
The main reason small business owners hire the wrong people is they move too quickly. They’re afraid the work won’t get done until the position is filled. While there’s some truth to this, you should also know it takes more time to quickly hire three people who don’t work out than it does to find that one good person who’s perfect for the job.
Commit to slowing down your hiring process. Invest more time and thought in the interview process, and don’t make an offer until you find the right person — no matter how long it takes. At my company, each new hire has gone through five or six interviews.
Remember, you don’t want someone who is just looking for a J-O-B. You want someone who is passionate about the position and your mission.
3. Find a mentor or coach
What’s the one trait that almost all successful entrepreneurs have in common? They have a wise and experienced mentor who shows them the ropes and holds them accountable.
Find good people who are doing things with excellence, who are having the kind of success you envision having one day, and learn from them. You don’t have to stick to just one. You can have a different mentor for every area of your life.
4. Get healthy
Have you ever noticed you don’t have a lot of fight or enthusiasm in you when you’re tired? In business, there’s always going to be a battle, so take care of yourself! Get in shape, eat healthy foods, and get plenty of rest. Give your mind and body what they need, so you can fight another day.
So, what are you waiting for? Write down those goals and get started. Goodbye, stress. Hello, prosperity!
