How to hit the ground running while adjusting if things go wrong.


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Starting a new year in business is a great chance to reset, focus, and build momentum. Here’s a clear, practical way to begin and a smart approach for adjusting when things don’t go as planned.

First of all, take an honest look back on the previous year. The key to this part, is keeping it simple.

  • What worked really well?
  • What didn’t work, and why?
  • Where was the most time wasted?
  • What brought the most value ?
Next, set clear, realistic goals, but make them specific…but, focus on no more than four or five goals.
  • Increase sales by X%
  • Increase sales/margin by Y%
  • Gain X new customers
  • Launch one new product/service
Then, for each goal ask yourself the following and remember that small steps make for steady progress.
  • What’s the first step?
  • What can I do this week?
  • What can I do this month?
Things might go wrong at some point, it happens to the best! First of all, don’t panic…pause and assess.
  • What exactly went wrong?
  • Is it a short-term problem or a bigger trend?
  • What’s still working?
Staying calm helps you make better decisions. Ask for help and advice, talking with your team and mentors…and you don’t have to work everything out alone, and tackled correctly, you learn and can bounce back stronger…also, what can I do differently next time?
Every mistake can improve your business if you learn quickly.Finally, always remember that problems are part of growth and that adjusting is a sign of strength.
Make sure that you are planning for your future success!

“As the New Year dawns, let your genius not be just a spark but a relentless flame, igniting paths unseen and potential untapped.”
Dr. Tracey Bond