But why?

As kids we were awesome at this, but for some reason as we grow, we stop asking… why? We stop questioning in place of doing. So before you DO anything else, let’s make sure you’re actually doing what matters…
 
First up let’s start with the big question… why did you originally choose to start your own business?
 
Was it for the prestige? The money? Did you want to share something great with the World? Or was lifestyle the primary reason? The freedom of being your own boss? More flexibility for family? Or perhaps you were disillusioned by your own employer and thought you could do it better?
 
Whatever your reasons, are you still on track to achieving those goals? And even more importantly, do they remain true?
 
When I start working with a new client I find they are often struggling with their business, not because they aren’t capable, but because their personal goals have become so misaligned with their business activities.
 
This is particularly evident with entrepreneurs that either start a business to move away from something, feel it was the obvious next step, or have become reactive rather than proactive in their decision making, as a result of being bumped off track… perhaps it was the GFC, a relationship breakdown, an evolution of industry? Whatever the reason, they’ve found themselves fuelled by fear and are making decisions to avoid pain rather than moving toward a goal.

“The key to success is to focus our conscious mind on things we desire not things we fear.”
Brian Tracy
 

If you think your team, your customers and even suppliers don’t sense your fear or disillusion, you’re mistaken. They may not be able to articulate it, but they feel it.
 
So before you throw yourself into another day, take a few minutes to quickly assess where you’re at. Are you moving towards your goals, or away from disaster? Is your business still performing to achieve your personal goals? If not, why not? The switch required is often simple, you just need to identify it.
 
In my business I’m always asked for actionable steps. Not just ideas, but a solid plan of action. So during the first half of this year I’ve decided to create a series of short articles designed to help you realign your business activities with your personal goals. And each article will contain a brief to do list.
 
If you’re interested in this process, I’d really appreciate your input. As we progress, let me know what you need and how it’s working for you. And what results you are seeing?
 
So where to start? Well here of course…
 
Why ARE you in business?
 
Grab a new business journal and start by answering these questions. Think about it. Understanding the why is a vital step in the process...

1. Why did you start/buy this business?
2. Does this initial reasoning remain true?
3. Are you on track?
4. If not, why not?
5. What needs to change?
6. By when?

My next article will take a quick look at these responses and focus on where we go from here.

Enjoy.

David