If you’re anything like me your New Year’s resolution probably reads something like this: get in shape, grow my business, and take a VACATION. And if you’re anything like 99% of Americans, you will probably make it about two weeks before falling off the wagon and right back into old habits.
I agree with the experts who say that the problem with New Year’s resolutions is that we take the step of articulating WHAT we want to accomplish but fail to address HOW we intend to accomplish it. It’s like the saying goes “if you’re not planning to succeed you’re planning to fail.” And it makes perfect sense, really. I mean when you were starting your business you forced yourself to put a plan into action to make it a reality, right?
So this year, I am taking a little longer than usual to put together my resolutions. I’m creating first quarter goals, for myself and my business, and mapping out how I can accomplish them. Then I’m going to make time to evaluate what works, what doesn’t, and why, so that I can develop second quarter goals based on what I learn. I know some things will take more than one quarter, but by taking stock on a regular basis I’ll be more prepared for whatever comes my way. With respect to business, I think this will make me more prepared to take calculated risks rather than drifting along trying to ride out the stormy economy. I’m bracing myself for the work that lies ahead and getting back to the basics by building a plan that will make this year even better than the last. Enough about me, what are your resolutions this year?
How are you planning on making this year better than ‘08?
I love the idea of quarterly goals. I listen carefully to what my long-time customers tell me they want in card images as well as being open to what inspires me from nature. So using your idea would help me be productive in that area of my business.