We have all asked it under our breath, usually paired with a slow shake of the head and an exasperated sigh, "Why did I do that?" You may have even had one of those; drop to your knees in the rain, look towards the stormy sky as the rain falls relentlessly onto your face and scream "WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYY?" while the camera pans out; moments.
In an earlier blog, we looked at your "Who" and your "What" Now it is time to look at your "Why".
All to often, we reserve the question of why for when we regret a decision or something negative happens to us. In those situations it is good to ask why, not to throw a pity party but to actually explore why you took an action or why something happened to you. What I would like to suggest to you today, though, is to ask why all the time. The use of this question can lead you down paths of discovery you can't even imagine.
Think about the typical 4 year old. The word "why" is probably one of the most used in their vocabulary. I have had these kinds of conversations with both of my kids and several others.
"Daddy" (That part is usually only from my kids, not other peoples) "Why do we have to go to the grocery store every week?"
"Because we have to buy food."
"Why"
"Well, we need to eat."
"Why?"
"Because our bodies need food so that we can walk and talk and think and do things?"
"Why?"
"...... you know, I don't really know exactly."
"Why?"
"Because I didn't go to University and study that kind of thing."
"Why?"
"Because I wanted to be a rock star ok?! Back off, you sound like my dad!"
"......... Why?"
"Why" is the one-word key to discovery. When you turn it on yourself, you can discover things that can change your life. The trick is to not just use it when things go your way. Ask it of yourself in every situation and really explore your answer.
Why did you nail that presentation?
Why did you get the job?
Why did you choose to procrastinate?
Why did you not make that sales call?
Why did you pour so much energy into your last project?
Behind every action you take, be it positive or negative, there is a motivation ... a why. Be a 4 year old and explore those motivations. Have a conversation like this with yourself;
"Why did I nail that presentation?"
"Because I felt completely confident going into it."
"Why?"
"Because I was fully prepared."
"Why?"
"Because I knew my subject and my audience inside-out and backwards."
"Why?"
"Because I took the time to research it all very well."
"Why?"
"Because I knew that this presentation was key to the success of my business."
"Why?"
"Because I knew that landing a contract with these people would open many doors."
We could continue but you get the point. Just from asking why in this sequence we discovered that a great presentation comes from confidence, which comes from preparation, which comes from a desire to succeed.
Everyone's "why" is different and certain situations will have different "whys" for you. Take the time to explore why you make choices the way you do. Channel your inner 4 year old and drill through the "whys" until you can't drill any more. Then look back at all of the answers. You will find heaps of information that will help you to understand why you do what you do and what you might want to adjust.
Why?
Because it works.
Sunday, 27 May 2012
Thursday, 17 May 2012
Who is Your What and What is Your Who? ... What?
Who is your what and what is your who? It almost sounds like I have ripped off Dr. Seuss, but I haven't. Trust me, I have no desire to incur the wrath of the Cat in the Hat.
Where, you ask, did this nonsensical question come from? From a trend I have seen in many conversations I have been having lately. Due to a presentation I delivered recently entitled, "Finding Your Passion", many of the audience members have been in touch with me wanting to dig deeper into that topic as it relates to their own life. Keep in mind, this trend is not unique to the audience in that presentation, it is very prevalent everywhere and in almost everyone (including myself).
It is this ... we tend to mix our "who" and our "what". It's like an Abbott and Costello skit isn't it?
Who is your what?
No, no ... who is your who.
What is my who?
Naturally.
We tend to define ourselves by the roles we have in life. These are our "whats". You may be a mother, father, sibling, grandparent, son, daughter, friend, employee, boss, co-worker, consumer, producer, wife, husband, boyfriend, girlfriend, volunteer, helper, dependent, or any combination of millions of roles not listed here.
Your "what" is the culmination of all of your roles. It is defined by what you do and what responsibilities you have to others. We all have "whats" and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. It is our "whats" that make us valuable members of society, able to contribute to those around us.
The problems come when we start letting our "whats" take over and eventually drown out our "who".
What is your "who"? Your "who" is you apart from your "whats". By that I mean this ... (wow, Dr. Seuss must have had lots of fun, writing sentences like this is making me smile) ... If you can put your roles out of your mind and really look inside at the person you are, you will find your "who".
Doing it isn't very easy for most. That is because we are so used to defining ourselves based on our roles. If you had no responsibilities to anyone, even for just a day, what would you want life to be like? Who would be there?
What would you be doing?
How would you feel?
Where would you go?
Think as freely as you can. This is where you discover your "who". Don't judge your vision, just soak it in. This is where you will find your passion. This is where you will learn what you really want from your life. Spend some time in this would of your "who". Get to know it very very well. Then bring it with you when you step back into your "whats". Adjust your roles according to the real you that you have found.
That is where happiness begins.
Get in touch with your true "who" and adjust your "whats" to reflect it. We will talk about your "whys" and "hows" in another article.
Monday, 16 April 2012
Show Wisdom by Speaking Simply
One of the most valuable skills around is being able to communicate complicated ideas in a very simple way. If you can master that skill, you will find that people will respond exceptionally well to you. Why? Because, when you speak, you will make them feel smart, and everyone wants to feel smart.
Think about the quotes that you like to read, jot down or even get put on the walls of your home. I bet the majority of them are one or two sentences long yet communicate a profound idea. Here are a few examples:
Look at those quotes! Each fits on one line, yet can cause your mind to think for hours and reach new heights! That is the art of simple speaking!
In spite of the power of this concept, I find that many people speak in very complicated ways when it is unnecessary. There are three possible reasons for that:
1. The speaker does not see the importance of speaking simply.
2. The speaker does not know the subject well enough to say it simply.
3. The speaker wants to feel superior and hopes they can do that by confusing the listener.
Take a doctor for example. She may say, "You have an esophageal food bolus obstruction. I will need to give you a glucagon injection in order to treat it." That sentence would scare me! I don't understand it, I feel stupid and I still don't know what is wrong with me. On the other hand, she could say, "You have a clump of food lodged in your esophagus, that is the tube that takes food into your belly. I can give you a shot that will relax that tube and allow the food to pass through to your stomach." Now I get it! My fear is gone and I don't feel stupid!
Whatever it is you do, you probably know the lingo and logic behind it much better than the average person. That is why you get paid to do it. When you are talking to a customer, they don't have the knowledge you do on that particular subject. If you want to help them and have them feel comfortable with you, you must speak in a way that they understand. Cut out the jargon and long winded descriptions. You may feel smarter if you rattle off some confusing sentence. But your customer will feel smarter and see you as wiser if you can communicate it simply.
After all, that is why we think Leonardo Da Vinci was so wise when he said, "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."
Think about the quotes that you like to read, jot down or even get put on the walls of your home. I bet the majority of them are one or two sentences long yet communicate a profound idea. Here are a few examples:
"Action expresses priorities" Mahatma Gandhi
"I am always doing things I can't do. That is how I get to do them." Pablo Picasso
"Decide that you want it more than you are afraid of it." Bill Cosby
Look at those quotes! Each fits on one line, yet can cause your mind to think for hours and reach new heights! That is the art of simple speaking!
In spite of the power of this concept, I find that many people speak in very complicated ways when it is unnecessary. There are three possible reasons for that:
1. The speaker does not see the importance of speaking simply.
2. The speaker does not know the subject well enough to say it simply.
3. The speaker wants to feel superior and hopes they can do that by confusing the listener.
Take a doctor for example. She may say, "You have an esophageal food bolus obstruction. I will need to give you a glucagon injection in order to treat it." That sentence would scare me! I don't understand it, I feel stupid and I still don't know what is wrong with me. On the other hand, she could say, "You have a clump of food lodged in your esophagus, that is the tube that takes food into your belly. I can give you a shot that will relax that tube and allow the food to pass through to your stomach." Now I get it! My fear is gone and I don't feel stupid!
Whatever it is you do, you probably know the lingo and logic behind it much better than the average person. That is why you get paid to do it. When you are talking to a customer, they don't have the knowledge you do on that particular subject. If you want to help them and have them feel comfortable with you, you must speak in a way that they understand. Cut out the jargon and long winded descriptions. You may feel smarter if you rattle off some confusing sentence. But your customer will feel smarter and see you as wiser if you can communicate it simply.
After all, that is why we think Leonardo Da Vinci was so wise when he said, "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."
Thursday, 22 March 2012
"Business Owner" Does Not Equal "Entrepreneur"
Entrepreneurship is the pursuit of opportunity without regard to resources currently controlled.
That is one of the best definitions of "entrepreneur" that I have ever seen. It addresses the fact that true entrepreneurship goes very far beyond simply owning a business and into the very character of the person who starts businesses.
I believe that "business owner" and "entrepreneur" are two very different things that are sometimes connected.
It is possible to own a business without being of an entrepreneurial spirit. An example of this could be someone who bought an existing business in order to have the freedom of not being an employee anymore. They own the business, they have their freedom but they have no desire to reach out and explore with that business. they bought it as a solid investment and want to keep it running on that same track. So they do, and so it rewards them and that's great! This is a successful business owner, but not an entrepreneur.
It is also possible to be an entrepreneur without owning a business. Picture the guy working on the loading dock of a large company's warehouse. He comes up with ways to improve the warehouse system, he motivates his co-workers, he solves problems. Eventually he is noticed by management and is moved up in the company. His creative ideas end up changing the face of the company, it branches out in new directions because of his vision. The company grows, he is rewarded and that's great! He doesn't own the business but he is the entrepreneurial spirit that drives it.
In most cases though, an entrepreneur usually wants to build something for himself. It sits within that definition, "Entrepreneurship is the pursuit of opportunity without regard to resources currently controlled."
The very nature of an entrepreneur makes them want to create something out of nothing. Because of the nature of this, there are certain traits that most successful entrepreneurs share:
- They see opportunities where others don’t.
- They have the creativity to imagine ways to reach that opportunity.
- They have the desire to pursue that opportunity.
- They have the courage to move forward with action.
When all of that comes together, you have an entrepreneur. Does it sound like you? If so, go forward boldly!
Cliff Turner of Mobile Minds provides training and support to help you become the strongest entrepreneur you can possibly be.
Monday, 19 March 2012
D-Fying Gravity with Deborah
Have you ever had one of those experiences that came out of nowhere, seemed unassuming and meaningless, but ended up changing your life? That is exactly what happened for one of Edmonton's newest entrepreneurs.
Deborah Schindel, owner of D-fy Gravity Apparel, was working as an image consultant with an established company but knew she eventually wanted to run her own business. A need that she identified while doing her job was that women wanted bras that provided both comfort and healthy support without sacrificing beauty. Products that fit this description were hard to find. The idea was planted. Deborah saw a need she could fill but wasn't sure how to go about it at that point. That is where a random event came into play that launched her into entrepreneurship.
Due to a mix up, Deborah ended up at a trade show that she didn't actually have tickets for. The people at the door encouraged her to attend anyway and let her and her business partner in for free. It was there that they discovered the products that would be the backbone of D-fy Gravity Apparel. Now, she runs her business out of her home where she has set up a very inviting space for her customers to browse her products and have fittings done. Her plan for the near future is to expand into a retail space and to find more lines of apparel that support her philosophy. That being, "Women should not have to sacrifice health for the sake of beauty." Eventually, she would like to open other locations in Western Canada.
I had the opportunity to sit down with Deborah and ask her a few questions about her experiences in this early stage of entrepreneurship. Here are some of the things she said:
When asked what she would do differently if she was back at the beginning of her business with the knowledge she has now, Deborah said that she would put more effort into the foundations of her operations. That being her marketing efforts and creation of systems that help the business run smoothly. Now that she is deeper into the business with more and more things happening every day, she is finding that some of the day to day maintenance duties are falling through the cracks. She feels that if she would have built systems to handle them earlier, she would not be dealing with all the catch up work that faces her now. It is much more interesting, in the early stages, to concentrate on dealing with customers and improving your product or service, but those daily tasks will always be there. The book keeping, database management and analysis of marketing will need to be done at some point. Set up systems for it all at the beginning to avoid an avalanche later.
We then talked about her favorite parts of running her business. For Deborah it is the face to face experiences, whether it is a networking event, a trade show or consulting customers in her shop. It is easy to see why. Deborah is so calm and comfortable when she speaks, it is obvious that she is in her element when communicating with people. On top of this, she genuinely cares for the well being of her clients. She knows she is helping them and loves it. This is essential to success for almost all entrepreneurs. Being able to deal with people in a way that makes them comfortable is key when it comes to gaining trust and eventually sales. The best way to be able to do that is to fully believe in the benefits your business offers. If you believe in your product the way that Deborah believes in hers, you will be able to take it to the world without appearing like to are pushing it down peoples throats. Your sincerity in describing its benefits will bring people to you.
There is a lot of things any entrepreneur could learn from Deborah, but those three cornerstones are key to any business.
1. Keep your eyes open, you never know when opportunity appear.
2. Build your foundation of systems early.
3. Be sincere and enjoy dealing with people to find success.
And for the women reading this, you can learn about her products here ... Apparently her stuff is awesome, I just don;t have the right equipment to test it for you :-)
Deborah Schindel, owner of D-fy Gravity Apparel, was working as an image consultant with an established company but knew she eventually wanted to run her own business. A need that she identified while doing her job was that women wanted bras that provided both comfort and healthy support without sacrificing beauty. Products that fit this description were hard to find. The idea was planted. Deborah saw a need she could fill but wasn't sure how to go about it at that point. That is where a random event came into play that launched her into entrepreneurship.
Due to a mix up, Deborah ended up at a trade show that she didn't actually have tickets for. The people at the door encouraged her to attend anyway and let her and her business partner in for free. It was there that they discovered the products that would be the backbone of D-fy Gravity Apparel. Now, she runs her business out of her home where she has set up a very inviting space for her customers to browse her products and have fittings done. Her plan for the near future is to expand into a retail space and to find more lines of apparel that support her philosophy. That being, "Women should not have to sacrifice health for the sake of beauty." Eventually, she would like to open other locations in Western Canada.
I had the opportunity to sit down with Deborah and ask her a few questions about her experiences in this early stage of entrepreneurship. Here are some of the things she said:
When asked what she would do differently if she was back at the beginning of her business with the knowledge she has now, Deborah said that she would put more effort into the foundations of her operations. That being her marketing efforts and creation of systems that help the business run smoothly. Now that she is deeper into the business with more and more things happening every day, she is finding that some of the day to day maintenance duties are falling through the cracks. She feels that if she would have built systems to handle them earlier, she would not be dealing with all the catch up work that faces her now. It is much more interesting, in the early stages, to concentrate on dealing with customers and improving your product or service, but those daily tasks will always be there. The book keeping, database management and analysis of marketing will need to be done at some point. Set up systems for it all at the beginning to avoid an avalanche later.
We then talked about her favorite parts of running her business. For Deborah it is the face to face experiences, whether it is a networking event, a trade show or consulting customers in her shop. It is easy to see why. Deborah is so calm and comfortable when she speaks, it is obvious that she is in her element when communicating with people. On top of this, she genuinely cares for the well being of her clients. She knows she is helping them and loves it. This is essential to success for almost all entrepreneurs. Being able to deal with people in a way that makes them comfortable is key when it comes to gaining trust and eventually sales. The best way to be able to do that is to fully believe in the benefits your business offers. If you believe in your product the way that Deborah believes in hers, you will be able to take it to the world without appearing like to are pushing it down peoples throats. Your sincerity in describing its benefits will bring people to you.
There is a lot of things any entrepreneur could learn from Deborah, but those three cornerstones are key to any business.
1. Keep your eyes open, you never know when opportunity appear.
2. Build your foundation of systems early.
3. Be sincere and enjoy dealing with people to find success.
And for the women reading this, you can learn about her products here ... Apparently her stuff is awesome, I just don;t have the right equipment to test it for you :-)
Monday, 5 March 2012
Wednesday, 22 February 2012
Are You A Table Scrap Entrepreneur?
The voice of Rover the family dog, "Bacon! They are having bacon! mmmmm. I know there will be a bit left on a plate after they finish eating. I haven't chewed anything or dug in the yard. I bet they will give me a bite if there is any left over. Ooooh! Here it comes! She's taking the plate of the table! ... Yes yes yes ... Oh, she wants me to sit. No problem lady! Ok...I'm a stittin' gimme gimme!.....YEEEEEESSSSSSSS!" Chomp! One scrap of bacon gone. Rover is happy.
Why did I write this strange paragraph? Well, for fun of course! That and because I believe that often, entrepreneurs take the roll of Rover when it comes to how they run their business. Have you ever said anything along these lines?
"If I can see 20% growth this year, I will reward myself with a trip."
"If everything goes well at the office this week, I might have time to take the weekend off!"
"That client is really sucking up my time, I guess it is another late night at work for me."
Granted, being a business owner has it's share of sacrifices that must be made. Especially in the start-up phase. But if you are a few years into your business, it is operating successfully and you still are dominated by thoughts like these, you are probably a Rover. A table scrap entrepreneur! If the business you own and have created only rewards you when there is left over time or money, something is wrong. It has become your master!
If you are the master of your business, you will not be at it's mercy once it is running smoothly. Instead, the rewards that you desire from owning a business should be built into your expectations of it.
You did not create a business in order for it to be your master. You created a business so that you could be the master of it.
In order to solve this, ensure that your goal setting process is correct. Set your personal goals before your business goals. Know what you want out of life and then design your business to provide it. I run a workshop that does this very thing with entrepreneurs. It helps them think through their business as masters of it and ensures that their personal goals are built into the very fabric of it.
Did you get into business to have more free time? Design the systems and hire the staff to make that a reality.
Did you get into business for money? Make sure your marketing, sales and customer service are top notch and enjoy the income.
Did you get into business in order to be the world biggest provider of flugelbinders? (I don't think that is a real word). Then make sure that your brand is synonymous with flugelbinders and find ways to conquer your flugelbinder competition.
In short, identify what you as a human being want. Then find a way to structure your business in a way that gives you that very thing.
Rover is happy with his bacon scraps. I am willing to bet that if your run your business like a table scrap entrepreneur, you will not be happy for long. Ensure that you are getting what you want out of your business, not just what is left over.
Why did I write this strange paragraph? Well, for fun of course! That and because I believe that often, entrepreneurs take the roll of Rover when it comes to how they run their business. Have you ever said anything along these lines?
"If I can see 20% growth this year, I will reward myself with a trip."
"If everything goes well at the office this week, I might have time to take the weekend off!"
"That client is really sucking up my time, I guess it is another late night at work for me."
Granted, being a business owner has it's share of sacrifices that must be made. Especially in the start-up phase. But if you are a few years into your business, it is operating successfully and you still are dominated by thoughts like these, you are probably a Rover. A table scrap entrepreneur! If the business you own and have created only rewards you when there is left over time or money, something is wrong. It has become your master!
If you are the master of your business, you will not be at it's mercy once it is running smoothly. Instead, the rewards that you desire from owning a business should be built into your expectations of it.
You did not create a business in order for it to be your master. You created a business so that you could be the master of it.
In order to solve this, ensure that your goal setting process is correct. Set your personal goals before your business goals. Know what you want out of life and then design your business to provide it. I run a workshop that does this very thing with entrepreneurs. It helps them think through their business as masters of it and ensures that their personal goals are built into the very fabric of it.
Did you get into business to have more free time? Design the systems and hire the staff to make that a reality.
Did you get into business for money? Make sure your marketing, sales and customer service are top notch and enjoy the income.
Did you get into business in order to be the world biggest provider of flugelbinders? (I don't think that is a real word). Then make sure that your brand is synonymous with flugelbinders and find ways to conquer your flugelbinder competition.
In short, identify what you as a human being want. Then find a way to structure your business in a way that gives you that very thing.
Rover is happy with his bacon scraps. I am willing to bet that if your run your business like a table scrap entrepreneur, you will not be happy for long. Ensure that you are getting what you want out of your business, not just what is left over.
Wednesday, 15 February 2012
Is "Sales" a Four Letter Word?
"Sales ... p-thew" (that was me attempting to capture the sound of spitting in disgust)
That word, "Sales" has a stigma attached to it. We hear it and we think of the piranhas that hover outside the door at the used car dealership, we think of the people that so conveniently call you at dinner time to get you to buy their personalized pens that can write underwater or in space. (I actually had that call come in. I told them that when I started taking on clients who were space artists or under water poets I would give them a call). In short, we usually bring to mind bad experiences we have had with sales people. Then the stigma kicks in, "Sales ... patooohey!" (Did that spit sound better?)
In reality, sales need not be a dirty word. We all do it every single day. We sell our products to our customers. We sell ideas to our partners. We sell the fact that studying will be worth it someday to our kids.
No matter what your business does, you need to sell it to others somehow. You can be the most talented carpet layer in the world, but if you don't sell your business, you will have a hard time making a living of it. (On the other side of that, you can see may example of people who are mediocre at what they do, yet have great success due to understanding sales). Imagine your success if you are great at what you do and know how to sell properly!
The thing is, those who are good at sales, don't seem like they are selling. They probably don't feel like they are selling either. Why? Because good sales come from listening to the buyer.
People love to buy, but they hate to be sold. The sales person who tries to convince someone they need something will turn most people off almost instantly. The sales person who listens to what the buyer says they need and then tries to meet that need will find loyal clients everywhere.
Zig Ziglar famously said, "You can get everything you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want."
This is the heart of good, honest, not-slimey sales. Don't approach sales with the attitude of "How much can I get from this person." Instead approach it with, "What can I do to help this person." If people view you as someone who genuinely wants to help, they will keep coming back to you. That creates repeat business and also referral business. If you come across as someone who wants to get them to buy as much as possible with no regard for their actual need, you will never see them again.
Sales is not a four letter word, literally or figuratively. (Although a lot of pushy sales people deserve some 4 letter titles) Sales, if done properly, is a pleasant form of communication in which both parties have their needs met.
The next time you are selling your product or service, ensure that you really understand the client's needs. Address those needs sincerely and provide the solutions you have to offer. It won't feel like "sales" to you or the client. It will feel like being helpful, and that is a way better feeling.
That word, "Sales" has a stigma attached to it. We hear it and we think of the piranhas that hover outside the door at the used car dealership, we think of the people that so conveniently call you at dinner time to get you to buy their personalized pens that can write underwater or in space. (I actually had that call come in. I told them that when I started taking on clients who were space artists or under water poets I would give them a call). In short, we usually bring to mind bad experiences we have had with sales people. Then the stigma kicks in, "Sales ... patooohey!" (Did that spit sound better?)
In reality, sales need not be a dirty word. We all do it every single day. We sell our products to our customers. We sell ideas to our partners. We sell the fact that studying will be worth it someday to our kids.
No matter what your business does, you need to sell it to others somehow. You can be the most talented carpet layer in the world, but if you don't sell your business, you will have a hard time making a living of it. (On the other side of that, you can see may example of people who are mediocre at what they do, yet have great success due to understanding sales). Imagine your success if you are great at what you do and know how to sell properly!
The thing is, those who are good at sales, don't seem like they are selling. They probably don't feel like they are selling either. Why? Because good sales come from listening to the buyer.
People love to buy, but they hate to be sold. The sales person who tries to convince someone they need something will turn most people off almost instantly. The sales person who listens to what the buyer says they need and then tries to meet that need will find loyal clients everywhere.
Zig Ziglar famously said, "You can get everything you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want."
This is the heart of good, honest, not-slimey sales. Don't approach sales with the attitude of "How much can I get from this person." Instead approach it with, "What can I do to help this person." If people view you as someone who genuinely wants to help, they will keep coming back to you. That creates repeat business and also referral business. If you come across as someone who wants to get them to buy as much as possible with no regard for their actual need, you will never see them again.
Sales is not a four letter word, literally or figuratively. (Although a lot of pushy sales people deserve some 4 letter titles) Sales, if done properly, is a pleasant form of communication in which both parties have their needs met.
The next time you are selling your product or service, ensure that you really understand the client's needs. Address those needs sincerely and provide the solutions you have to offer. It won't feel like "sales" to you or the client. It will feel like being helpful, and that is a way better feeling.
Thursday, 9 February 2012
Don't Lick That! 10 Common Mistakes.
If you rode the school bus as a kid here in Canada, you know what the inside of the window frames look like when it dips below -25 or so. Yup, they build up a layer of frost that looks sooooo tasty that you just have to lick it. Everyone from your teacher to your parents to your grandparents to that weird uncle that lives in his van has told you , "Do not lick frosty metal." But you do it anyway. Your tongue sticks just like they said it would. You try to counter the bumps the bus hits as your tongue fuses itself to the window frame, but sure enough, you mistime one and riiiip! Den you thalk like dis fou aboud fou houwahs.
We humans are strange beasts. Despite repeated warnings, there are some things we just have to learn the hard way. It is the same when it comes to entrepreneurship. Have you heard these warnings?
We humans are strange beasts. Despite repeated warnings, there are some things we just have to learn the hard way. It is the same when it comes to entrepreneurship. Have you heard these warnings?
- Don't assume everyone will love your product just because you and your mom think it is the world's greatest thing.
- Do not think that you can handle every little bit of the business yourself just because Tim Horton's introduced a bigger coffee cup.
- Do not over promise on what you can deliver in the early stages. That rush order of 5000 hand made puffy slippers will not make itself and your friends will hate you for inviting them to a sweatshop party.
- Do not start a business without clear goals. You will not know where you are going and even if you were where you wanted to be you wouldn't know it ... and that sucks.
- Do not underestimate costs. Yes, you will have to pay for enough bandwidth to handle an online store. No, they will not give it to you on a trade for your old guitar.
- Do not ignore your instincts. The numbers may point one way, but if your gut points another, listen to it. Unless your gut is just constantly pointing toward the fridge.
- Do not view customers simply as a way to make money. They will hate you.
- Do not view employees as a place to save money. They will hate you.
- Do not view equipment as a way to save money. Your equipment won't hate you if you buy cheap version of it. But your customers will hate you. Your employees will hate you. Eventually you will hate you.
- Do not give up! Seriously, never give up. Change course, adjust strategy, tweak everything, just don;t give up.
Just as a kid can't help but lick that school bus window frame, most entrepreneurs will make at least one of these mistakes despite all the warnings out there. So really, this blog seems like a waste of time eh? Go lick frosty metal.
Wednesday, 8 February 2012
Find Your Confidence Spot (or underwater basket weaving)
"Hoist me up in the bucket of the tractor so I can reach the roof. Don't hit the electrical wires. If you do, I will probably get electrocuted and fall off, so don't touch me. Just run to the house and get Ma." These were instructions I received from my grandpa when I was 10 years old.
For me, confidence comes in the form of operating vehicles. I grew up on a farm so there was lots of driving practice for a young boy. I had my first dirt bike when I was 8. Was driving tractors when I was 10. Trucks in the field when I was 12. Trucks on the road when I was 13. Did a bit of motocross racing. Drove 5 ton delivery trucks when I was 19. I am now 36 and have never (knock on wood) been in an accident when I have been at the wheel. I drive assertively and safely and I know it. (Ok, I'm done bragging, watch me back into something in the parking lot after I finish this blog post)
When I am driving vehicle, I feel safe and confident in my abilities. Knowing that, I often try to leverage it when I find I need confidence in other situations. What makes me confident in a car?
Knowing how a car works.
Knowing its limits.
Knowing how it wants to move.
Understanding the rules of the road, even the "unwritten" ones.
Watching far ahead for possible hazards.
Being in tune with what other drivers are doing around me.
In business, I try to do the same in order to have that same confidence. In any situation I try to:
Know how my business works.
Know its limits.
Know how it wants to operate.
Understand my surroundings and the rules that govern them.
Look as far into the future as possible for possible hazards.
Be in tune with the people around me and what they are doing.
It seems simplistic but it works for me. If I find myself in a situation where I am lacking confidence I try to think, "What would be similar to this in a driving situation and how would I prepare for it?"
Think about an activity that you feel completely confident doing. Is it rock climbing? Knitting? Playing hockey? Curling? Underwater basket weaving?
Whatever it is, analyze what makes you feel confident in that activity. What do you do that gives you that confidence? Then, when faced with a situation that you are lacking confidence, try to compare it to that activity. What lessons can you pull from it to give you confidence in the situation you face.
Try it ... it works!
ps. I did not bump the power lines and my grandpa was pretty happy about that.
For me, confidence comes in the form of operating vehicles. I grew up on a farm so there was lots of driving practice for a young boy. I had my first dirt bike when I was 8. Was driving tractors when I was 10. Trucks in the field when I was 12. Trucks on the road when I was 13. Did a bit of motocross racing. Drove 5 ton delivery trucks when I was 19. I am now 36 and have never (knock on wood) been in an accident when I have been at the wheel. I drive assertively and safely and I know it. (Ok, I'm done bragging, watch me back into something in the parking lot after I finish this blog post)
When I am driving vehicle, I feel safe and confident in my abilities. Knowing that, I often try to leverage it when I find I need confidence in other situations. What makes me confident in a car?
Knowing how a car works.
Knowing its limits.
Knowing how it wants to move.
Understanding the rules of the road, even the "unwritten" ones.
Watching far ahead for possible hazards.
Being in tune with what other drivers are doing around me.
In business, I try to do the same in order to have that same confidence. In any situation I try to:
Know how my business works.
Know its limits.
Know how it wants to operate.
Understand my surroundings and the rules that govern them.
Look as far into the future as possible for possible hazards.
Be in tune with the people around me and what they are doing.
It seems simplistic but it works for me. If I find myself in a situation where I am lacking confidence I try to think, "What would be similar to this in a driving situation and how would I prepare for it?"
Think about an activity that you feel completely confident doing. Is it rock climbing? Knitting? Playing hockey? Curling? Underwater basket weaving?
Whatever it is, analyze what makes you feel confident in that activity. What do you do that gives you that confidence? Then, when faced with a situation that you are lacking confidence, try to compare it to that activity. What lessons can you pull from it to give you confidence in the situation you face.
Try it ... it works!
ps. I did not bump the power lines and my grandpa was pretty happy about that.
Monday, 6 February 2012
6 Questions To Help You Find Your Passion
Often, I speak to people that know that they want to be in business for themselves but don't know what kind of business to get into. They often feel lost and like they are "missing the boat" as they search for a business that will make them happy. I tell them that I think they are wise for wanting to make sure they find a business that suits them rather than just jump on the first opportunity that shows its face. Pouring all of your time and effort into a business that does not somehow feed your passion will usually lead to a rough time.
So the questions is, if your passion isn't staring you in the face, how do you discover it? One of the workshops I lead (Finding Your Passion and Making it your Business) explores that very question and helps participants find their passion. It is done by working through a series of questions and activities that really help a person to look within and find what truly drives and excites them. Here are a few sample questions from that workshop that can be a good starting point if you are trying to discover your passion.
What are 3 experiences you have had that made you feel "alive".
What was your dream job as a child? What did your parents do? How did you feel about their jobs?
If you had to pretend you knew your passion right now, what would you do or say about it? (I know this one is tough, spend some time on it.)
If you could subscribe right now to 3 magazines, which ones would they be?
If you could travel back in time and visit yourself when you were 16, what one message would you want to communicate?
If you could take over any person's life (the good and the bad), whose would it be and why?
This is just a small sampling of the exploration done in that workshop, but it may be just enough to get you pointed in the right direction.
Look through your answers. try to find a common thread running through them. The answer may be just below the surface. In essence, discovering your passion is all about self awareness. Know how you feel at key moments, explore why you feel that way. Your passions are hidden just below the surface.
You may be very intelligent, hard working and have oodles of business savvy; but without a passion for what you do, you will never experience true fulfillment.
Find your passion and run with it.
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Exercise Your Creative Business Brain
During a recent workshop, I was asked how to develop the creative part of your mind when it comes to business.
Any time you want to develop a new product or service; Any time you want to create a new marketing effort; Anytime you run into a challenge that has no obvious solution; you will need your creative abilities to shine. For some, it comes naturally. For others it is difficult.
If you are one of the people that seem to have difficulty tapping into your creative thoughts, here is an exercise that can help. (Before you start, remember that you must allow your brain to function freely as you do this. Do not judge your own thoughts. Don't worry if you get "off topic", let your brain go in whatever direction it wants. You never know where it will take you. Likely, it will take you exactly where you need to go, just not by the route you anticipated)
Select a random object from the room you are in.
Grab a recording device.
Sit somewhere comfortable and just let your mind go.
Say everything that you think out loud so that you can have a record of it on tape.
Do not judge your thoughts or try to pull them a certain way, just let them develop naturally.
You will be amazed at what you learn.
It may go something like this. "Pencil ... I write with it ... I doodle with it ... this pencil is kind of dull ... I wonder where my sharpener is ... I like the smell of pencil shavings ... it reminds me of being in school with those wall mounted sharpeners ... I remember when Jim and I broke the one in Mrs. Drizzle's class and he blamed it on the class hamster ... I wonder what Jim is up to now ... Maybe he is on Facebook ... I should get back in touch".
You never know what thoughts will come to you and what actions they will inspire. Those actions could be life changing in the end. Maybe Jim is now an angel investor who will want to invest in your company!
Remember, the whole point of this exercise is to get you feeling comfortable with allowing your brain to run its natural course with thoughts. Once you can do this freely with random objects, you can bring that same technique into your business.You may set before you a picture of an employee, a product that needs improvement or a service that needs to be marketed. If you have become comfortable with your creative side, you will be able to run with thoughts on those topics as well. Letting your mind run wherever it wants and eventually bringing you through thoughts that will lead to a solution.
If obvious answers just aren't there and you are having trouble coming up with creative solutions, try this exercise. Build your imaginative muscle and become comfortable letting it work. I guarantee you will be impressed by the results.
Many of our workshops are geared toward developing your creative skills in business. Click here for a list of dates and topics.
Any time you want to develop a new product or service; Any time you want to create a new marketing effort; Anytime you run into a challenge that has no obvious solution; you will need your creative abilities to shine. For some, it comes naturally. For others it is difficult.
If you are one of the people that seem to have difficulty tapping into your creative thoughts, here is an exercise that can help. (Before you start, remember that you must allow your brain to function freely as you do this. Do not judge your own thoughts. Don't worry if you get "off topic", let your brain go in whatever direction it wants. You never know where it will take you. Likely, it will take you exactly where you need to go, just not by the route you anticipated)
Select a random object from the room you are in.
Grab a recording device.
Sit somewhere comfortable and just let your mind go.
Say everything that you think out loud so that you can have a record of it on tape.
Do not judge your thoughts or try to pull them a certain way, just let them develop naturally.
You will be amazed at what you learn.
It may go something like this. "Pencil ... I write with it ... I doodle with it ... this pencil is kind of dull ... I wonder where my sharpener is ... I like the smell of pencil shavings ... it reminds me of being in school with those wall mounted sharpeners ... I remember when Jim and I broke the one in Mrs. Drizzle's class and he blamed it on the class hamster ... I wonder what Jim is up to now ... Maybe he is on Facebook ... I should get back in touch".
You never know what thoughts will come to you and what actions they will inspire. Those actions could be life changing in the end. Maybe Jim is now an angel investor who will want to invest in your company!
Remember, the whole point of this exercise is to get you feeling comfortable with allowing your brain to run its natural course with thoughts. Once you can do this freely with random objects, you can bring that same technique into your business.You may set before you a picture of an employee, a product that needs improvement or a service that needs to be marketed. If you have become comfortable with your creative side, you will be able to run with thoughts on those topics as well. Letting your mind run wherever it wants and eventually bringing you through thoughts that will lead to a solution.
If obvious answers just aren't there and you are having trouble coming up with creative solutions, try this exercise. Build your imaginative muscle and become comfortable letting it work. I guarantee you will be impressed by the results.
Many of our workshops are geared toward developing your creative skills in business. Click here for a list of dates and topics.
Monday, 23 January 2012
Show Confidence Through How You Speak
It is natural for people to talk faster (and sometimes in a higher voice) when they are nervous. The psychology behind it is that speaking fast lends importance and validation to what a person says, at least thats what the speaker thinks. In the other person's mind, it says that the speaker feels nervous talking and feels inferior to the listener or not confident in the subject matter. If you are like most people and want to appear confident in what you are saying, you might need to slow it down a bit.
The next time you are talking, try to notice your voice. Listen to how it changes in certain situations and critique it a bit. When does it speed up and slow down? When does it get higher or lower? Are there certain sounds that come out smooth or raspy?
Then, find a private place and speak the way you would like to sound. It may seem silly at first but stick with it. You will soon find a pace that not only sounds confident but makes you feel confident. If it helps, imagine a celebrity that you think has a great way of speaking and imitate it, then slowly blend it into your natural voice. (For me it was Jack Nicholson, I removed the long drawn out vowels but concentrated on his depth and speed, which is quite slow). Here is an example of Mr. Nicholson Talking. He shows nothing but confidence no matter what he says, as he appears to be doing it on his own time.
Once you have found a pace of speaking that makes you feel confident, go out and use it. Start with people who don't know you. The bank teller, the taxi driver, the grocery clerk or anyone else you bump into. Get used to using it. See how you feel and how others respond when you use it. After some practice, start bringing it into your life until it is the norm. You will be amazed at the results.
DO NOT come up with a fake voice for yourself. You need to be you in all situations to have true confidence. But do learn how to control your pace of speaking and the tone that you use. Having that control will lead to clearer and more direct speech. That will cause you to feel more confident in what you are saying and that confidence will be communicated to the listener.
The next time you are talking, try to notice your voice. Listen to how it changes in certain situations and critique it a bit. When does it speed up and slow down? When does it get higher or lower? Are there certain sounds that come out smooth or raspy?
Then, find a private place and speak the way you would like to sound. It may seem silly at first but stick with it. You will soon find a pace that not only sounds confident but makes you feel confident. If it helps, imagine a celebrity that you think has a great way of speaking and imitate it, then slowly blend it into your natural voice. (For me it was Jack Nicholson, I removed the long drawn out vowels but concentrated on his depth and speed, which is quite slow). Here is an example of Mr. Nicholson Talking. He shows nothing but confidence no matter what he says, as he appears to be doing it on his own time.
Once you have found a pace of speaking that makes you feel confident, go out and use it. Start with people who don't know you. The bank teller, the taxi driver, the grocery clerk or anyone else you bump into. Get used to using it. See how you feel and how others respond when you use it. After some practice, start bringing it into your life until it is the norm. You will be amazed at the results.
DO NOT come up with a fake voice for yourself. You need to be you in all situations to have true confidence. But do learn how to control your pace of speaking and the tone that you use. Having that control will lead to clearer and more direct speech. That will cause you to feel more confident in what you are saying and that confidence will be communicated to the listener.
Thursday, 19 January 2012
Network Like A Human
Networking events; some people love them, some people hate them. From my experience, the expectations you have going in will determine how valuable an event will be for you.
Many people go into a networking event with the false belief that the goal is to sell their product or service. I bump into these people at events without fail. They walk up to me and give me their elevator pitch and then wait for my reaction. If I don't seem interested, they move on to the next person and throw their pitch. It feels like someone just grabbed me, slammed me against a billboard and then walked away. I am 99.9% certain that 99.9% of the people that do this fail 99.9% of the time.
It is funny to watch when two of these walking infomercials bump into each other. They both struggle to talk over the other while neither listens. Then they grudgingly take turns talking for the next 30 seconds, and then both turn away in disgust with that "What a waste of time" look on their face. ( I call these conversations "Herb Tarlek Showdowns" and have often considered taking side bets on who would stop pitching first.)
Networking events exist for the purpose of building your network, hence the name. Your network is the circle of people that exist around you. To have someone in your network, you need to have a relationship with them. Therefore, networking events are about building relationships!
Going into a networking event with the main goal of making some new relationships will lead to a much more productive and enjoyable time.
The way I do this is by thinking about the person I am talking to rather than what product or service they are representing. Instead of thinking, "How can I sell my service to this person?" I am thinking, "Who is this person and how can we fit into each others world?"
They may not be interested in my service and I may not be interested in theirs, but that doesn't mean there is no value in a relationship with them. I may be able to learn something from them that I would not have learned if I did not get into their world. They may introduce me to someone who is interested in my service. They may learn something from me that will help them in their world. Maybe you will eventually use each others services after building some trust over a few cups of coffee. Who knows, you may even be meeting your future spouse! (Unless you already have one. In that case it may be better not to shoot for that kind of thing at networking events.)
The point is to look at networking as "people meeting people" rather than "businesses pitching businesses".
You are a dynamic human being with a lot more to offer the world than just the product you sell. Every other person at that event is also a unique human being with interesting knowledge and stories. Connect with people on that level and truly discover what a networking event is about.
Find out more at www.Mobile-Minds.ca
Many people go into a networking event with the false belief that the goal is to sell their product or service. I bump into these people at events without fail. They walk up to me and give me their elevator pitch and then wait for my reaction. If I don't seem interested, they move on to the next person and throw their pitch. It feels like someone just grabbed me, slammed me against a billboard and then walked away. I am 99.9% certain that 99.9% of the people that do this fail 99.9% of the time.
It is funny to watch when two of these walking infomercials bump into each other. They both struggle to talk over the other while neither listens. Then they grudgingly take turns talking for the next 30 seconds, and then both turn away in disgust with that "What a waste of time" look on their face. ( I call these conversations "Herb Tarlek Showdowns" and have often considered taking side bets on who would stop pitching first.)
Networking events exist for the purpose of building your network, hence the name. Your network is the circle of people that exist around you. To have someone in your network, you need to have a relationship with them. Therefore, networking events are about building relationships!
Going into a networking event with the main goal of making some new relationships will lead to a much more productive and enjoyable time.
The way I do this is by thinking about the person I am talking to rather than what product or service they are representing. Instead of thinking, "How can I sell my service to this person?" I am thinking, "Who is this person and how can we fit into each others world?"
They may not be interested in my service and I may not be interested in theirs, but that doesn't mean there is no value in a relationship with them. I may be able to learn something from them that I would not have learned if I did not get into their world. They may introduce me to someone who is interested in my service. They may learn something from me that will help them in their world. Maybe you will eventually use each others services after building some trust over a few cups of coffee. Who knows, you may even be meeting your future spouse! (Unless you already have one. In that case it may be better not to shoot for that kind of thing at networking events.)
The point is to look at networking as "people meeting people" rather than "businesses pitching businesses".
You are a dynamic human being with a lot more to offer the world than just the product you sell. Every other person at that event is also a unique human being with interesting knowledge and stories. Connect with people on that level and truly discover what a networking event is about.
Find out more at www.Mobile-Minds.ca
Friday, 6 January 2012
Wherever You Go, There You Are
Often I hear people talking about being a different person when they are at work than at home. I call B.S.! (Usually not to their face as that would be rude, but I will try to point out that it isn't true at some point.)
Yes, most people have to conduct themselves differently at work than they do at home. Take me for example. I like to wear my pajamas when I have no where to be. The top has a picture of Oscar the Grouch and the word "SCRAM!" written across it. I like to talk in funny voices with my kids and sing songs in the manner of Beaker from the Muppets. Acting like that in front of a client would probably not go over well. With clients I dress nicely and speak lightheartedly yet professionally.
Does that mean I am a different person? Do I shut part of me off when I meet with clients? No! My personality is mine and I don't shut off any of it at any time. If my client happened to start singing "Dust in The Wind" like Beaker I would join right in. (Which is awesome, by the way. Check it out) I am the same person in any situation, everyone is, you can't escape yourself. You simply must conduct that personality differently in different situations.
When you walk into work, you are still the same person you were when you were at home. The same strengths, the same weaknesses, the same baggage, the same joys. If you had a bad morning it will likely have an effect on your workday. If you have a great workday it will have an effect on your evening at home. Trying to deny that leads to undue pressure to cover up feelings and try to mask what is going on inside; and that is never healthy.
Instead, you need to embrace the fact that you are you, no matter where you are. Know that you need to conduct yourself in ways suitable to the situations you are in, but that you should never try to disguise who you are.
If you are a fun-loving person, embrace it and be that way to the degree that is appropriate in all situations!
If you are a serious person, embrace it and be serious to the degree that is appropriate in all situations!
Whoever you are, embrace it! You will be happier and so will everyone around you because they will know they are getting the real you. Granted, you can't please everyone. Some people won't fit with your personality whether you are faking it or being genuine. So why not be genuine and let yourself be surrounded by people who appreciate you for who you are?
I am goofy. I know it and I love that about me. I am good at what I do and I can be very serious if needed but at the core I am goofy. That degree of goofiness will change according to what I am doing. If I sitting with a client exploring ways for them to reach their goals, I am focused and serious about the task at hand, but I don't hesitate to throw in a bit of goofiness if the situation is appropriate. That is me and I don't mind being me in a meeting. But when I get home with the kids, the goofiness can be let loose (assuming there isn't a serous talk I need to have with one of them). The bottom line is, I know I am goofy and I love it. I know that it is only appropriate in certain situations but that it is a part of me every second of every day.
Admit to yourself what the core of your personality is and own it! Don't feel that you have to shut it off in any situation. Don't try to hide who you are, just conduct yourself in a way appropriate to each situation. Be you at home, be you at work. people will appreciate you for who you are.
Yes, most people have to conduct themselves differently at work than they do at home. Take me for example. I like to wear my pajamas when I have no where to be. The top has a picture of Oscar the Grouch and the word "SCRAM!" written across it. I like to talk in funny voices with my kids and sing songs in the manner of Beaker from the Muppets. Acting like that in front of a client would probably not go over well. With clients I dress nicely and speak lightheartedly yet professionally.
Does that mean I am a different person? Do I shut part of me off when I meet with clients? No! My personality is mine and I don't shut off any of it at any time. If my client happened to start singing "Dust in The Wind" like Beaker I would join right in. (Which is awesome, by the way. Check it out) I am the same person in any situation, everyone is, you can't escape yourself. You simply must conduct that personality differently in different situations.
When you walk into work, you are still the same person you were when you were at home. The same strengths, the same weaknesses, the same baggage, the same joys. If you had a bad morning it will likely have an effect on your workday. If you have a great workday it will have an effect on your evening at home. Trying to deny that leads to undue pressure to cover up feelings and try to mask what is going on inside; and that is never healthy.
Instead, you need to embrace the fact that you are you, no matter where you are. Know that you need to conduct yourself in ways suitable to the situations you are in, but that you should never try to disguise who you are.
If you are a fun-loving person, embrace it and be that way to the degree that is appropriate in all situations!
If you are a serious person, embrace it and be serious to the degree that is appropriate in all situations!
Whoever you are, embrace it! You will be happier and so will everyone around you because they will know they are getting the real you. Granted, you can't please everyone. Some people won't fit with your personality whether you are faking it or being genuine. So why not be genuine and let yourself be surrounded by people who appreciate you for who you are?
I am goofy. I know it and I love that about me. I am good at what I do and I can be very serious if needed but at the core I am goofy. That degree of goofiness will change according to what I am doing. If I sitting with a client exploring ways for them to reach their goals, I am focused and serious about the task at hand, but I don't hesitate to throw in a bit of goofiness if the situation is appropriate. That is me and I don't mind being me in a meeting. But when I get home with the kids, the goofiness can be let loose (assuming there isn't a serous talk I need to have with one of them). The bottom line is, I know I am goofy and I love it. I know that it is only appropriate in certain situations but that it is a part of me every second of every day.
Admit to yourself what the core of your personality is and own it! Don't feel that you have to shut it off in any situation. Don't try to hide who you are, just conduct yourself in a way appropriate to each situation. Be you at home, be you at work. people will appreciate you for who you are.
Monday, 2 January 2012
3 Parts of a Successful Business
When you have a brand new business concept, the ideas flow freely and the excitement is electrifying! The sky is the limit and your dreams seem to come alive! It is a great feeling! There is a point, though, where all of that excitement and brainstorming must be put into a workable plan. That doesn't mean that the excitement needs to die, but it does mean that some critical thinking is needed.
In an earlier series of articles called "4 Parts of An Entrepreneur" I talked about the different characters within an entrepreneur that work together to build a business out of that flurry of ideas. Just like a successful entrepreneur has these parts that must work together, a successful business has parts that must work together as well. At the base of it all are 3 main pieces that must be put to use properly:
1. Product/Service
Of course, every business needs a product or service to offer. If you are starting a new business you will need to be offering a new concept or a new spin on a old concept if you are to be successful. If you come out of the gate offering the same product at the same price and in the same way as your competition, you will find it very difficult to succeed in the marketplace. So you must offer something new or offer a unique experience to consumers. If you don't do that, you will fail to pull people away from their normal buying habits and switch to you.
2. Purpose
Without purpose, a business will lack vision and determination. Much like a human being, a business needs to have a sense of purpose if people (employees, lenders, customers) are going to buy into it.
There are two ways to think about purpose and both are important.
First is your outward purpose. What change is your company making in the live of those around it? Do you make meals easier to prepare and thus take stress off of time crunched parents? Do you educate the public about something that can make them enjoy life more? Do you make it safer to work in a warehouse setting? Look past your product or service and see how it actually changes lives. That is your outward purpose. That is why people will buy into you.
Second is your inward purpose. What change does your company make to your own life and that of your employees? Does it allow you to live a certain lifestyle? Does it provide you with the feeling of control you desire? Does it free up time to spend with those you love? This is your inward purpose. The benefits that you and your employees receive from doing business.
Define both of these and set goals for them. Then when you face decisions, you can compare your options to your purpose to see which is the best.
3. People
Never ever forget that the success of your business, no matter what it is, is dependent on people. Right from the beginning you will need people.
At first it may just be a family member to help with the accounting, but soon you will have customers who need to be treated right. Then you will need suppliers, lenders and employees. Behind every business you deal with and every order you take there is a person. Treat them wrong and you will lose them or be treated poorly by them. Pay your bills, listen to your employees, deliver on all promises to your customers. No matter how wonderful your product is, you will taste defeat of you do not treat people properly. Guaranteed. The great thing is that people respect those who treat them well. So in return, you will receive the kind of treatment you desire from all of these people. That makes business a much more pleasurable thing. Sound too simple? It is simple! But it is amazing how fast people forget this when things do not go smoothly. Be the one who keeps treating people properly at all times and see how appreciated you become. Your business will flourish because of it!
When you are starting a new business, there are a million things to think about. Be sure that these 3 are in place and you will have a strong base to build from.
Know that your product or service is unique and be able to explain why.
Know your company's purpose and be able to communicate it.
Know the people around you and treat them well.
Enjoy success!
These concepts are covered in detail at our "Discovering the Entrepreneur Within" workshops. Click here for dates and tickets.
In an earlier series of articles called "4 Parts of An Entrepreneur" I talked about the different characters within an entrepreneur that work together to build a business out of that flurry of ideas. Just like a successful entrepreneur has these parts that must work together, a successful business has parts that must work together as well. At the base of it all are 3 main pieces that must be put to use properly:
1. Product/Service
Of course, every business needs a product or service to offer. If you are starting a new business you will need to be offering a new concept or a new spin on a old concept if you are to be successful. If you come out of the gate offering the same product at the same price and in the same way as your competition, you will find it very difficult to succeed in the marketplace. So you must offer something new or offer a unique experience to consumers. If you don't do that, you will fail to pull people away from their normal buying habits and switch to you.
2. Purpose
Without purpose, a business will lack vision and determination. Much like a human being, a business needs to have a sense of purpose if people (employees, lenders, customers) are going to buy into it.
There are two ways to think about purpose and both are important.
First is your outward purpose. What change is your company making in the live of those around it? Do you make meals easier to prepare and thus take stress off of time crunched parents? Do you educate the public about something that can make them enjoy life more? Do you make it safer to work in a warehouse setting? Look past your product or service and see how it actually changes lives. That is your outward purpose. That is why people will buy into you.
Second is your inward purpose. What change does your company make to your own life and that of your employees? Does it allow you to live a certain lifestyle? Does it provide you with the feeling of control you desire? Does it free up time to spend with those you love? This is your inward purpose. The benefits that you and your employees receive from doing business.
Define both of these and set goals for them. Then when you face decisions, you can compare your options to your purpose to see which is the best.
3. People
Never ever forget that the success of your business, no matter what it is, is dependent on people. Right from the beginning you will need people.
At first it may just be a family member to help with the accounting, but soon you will have customers who need to be treated right. Then you will need suppliers, lenders and employees. Behind every business you deal with and every order you take there is a person. Treat them wrong and you will lose them or be treated poorly by them. Pay your bills, listen to your employees, deliver on all promises to your customers. No matter how wonderful your product is, you will taste defeat of you do not treat people properly. Guaranteed. The great thing is that people respect those who treat them well. So in return, you will receive the kind of treatment you desire from all of these people. That makes business a much more pleasurable thing. Sound too simple? It is simple! But it is amazing how fast people forget this when things do not go smoothly. Be the one who keeps treating people properly at all times and see how appreciated you become. Your business will flourish because of it!
When you are starting a new business, there are a million things to think about. Be sure that these 3 are in place and you will have a strong base to build from.
Know that your product or service is unique and be able to explain why.
Know your company's purpose and be able to communicate it.
Know the people around you and treat them well.
Enjoy success!
These concepts are covered in detail at our "Discovering the Entrepreneur Within" workshops. Click here for dates and tickets.
Wednesday, 21 December 2011
3 Steps to Right Side Up Goals
The new year is fast approaching, and for many of us that means goal setting time! Of course, goal setting is something that can be done and re-done throughout the year, but it seems to be that feeling of a fresh start that comes with January 1st that encourages up to really look at where we are and where we want to be.
There are generally 3 steps to setting goals. If a person uses them correctly, it can really become an inspirational force to push you to where you want to be. The problem is, most people set them backwards!
Here is how it usually works:
1. Numbers - We say things like, "Alright...I did $750,000 in sales last year. This year I will do $800,000."
2. Achievements/Milestones - "If I do that much business I will need an assistant to take some stuff off my plate. I know I was working way too much just to keep up this year. So that will be a goal for this year, hire an assistant."
3. Rewards - "Well, after paying that assistant, my net might not be a whole lot different. I do need to reward myself though. Ok. I will take a 2 week trip to Mexico again like I did this year. I should be able to afford that."
Starting with the numbers limits everything. If your goals are limited, so is your imagination. If your imagination is limited, so is your excitement. If your excitement is limited, so is your determination. If your determination is limited, so is your result.
To set an effective goal, flip this system over!
1. Rewards - "I enjoyed my 2 weeks in Mexico last year. This year I want 2 trips. Two weeks in Mexico and 3 weeks in Ireland."
2. Accomplishments/Milestones - "If I am going to be away, I will need someone competent to handle things when I am gone. An assistant won't be enough. I need someone who can actually manage the place. I will hire an manager to work under me in the first half of this year."
3. Numbers - "I know what I want and the major change that will have to happen to make it a reality. I need to pay for it. After crunching the numbers I realize that my business needs to do $900,000 to pay for all of this. I will do at least $900,000 in sales this year. Having that manager in place will take a lot of work off my plate so I can concentrate on sales so I should easily be able to reach that number and not have to work insane hours like last year."
This way creates motivation, drive and determination because it is based on something you want as a person, not just cold numbers at the accountant's office.
In the first system it sounds like this, "I will pick a number that is bigger than last year because that is what businesses are supposed to do right? (P.S. I don't agree that is the case). Then if I hit that number, I will do something nice for myself."
The second is much more powerful because it sounds like this, "I know what I want in my personal life and my business is my tool to provide those things. Here is what I want and here is what my business needs to do to get it for me." Much more powerful! (On a side note, do not be surprised if you need to scale your business back a bit to meet your personal goals. Especially if you are in the case where your business is starting to consume your life)
This year, when you sit down to set your business goals remember, you are a person. You have things that you want to experience in this life and you have people that you want to share your life with. Your business is simply a tool to make those things happen. Set your personal goals and then set your business goals in a way that supports them.
Your personal goals may not be a trip. They may be a new house, more time with your family, more time for yourself, to give a certain amount to a cause or to volunteer more of your time. It is all up to you and there are infinite possibilities. Just concentrate on what you want out of your life, then build your goals around that.
If you set your goals in this way, you will find much more drive to make your business a success. That is because you will be working toward providing what you see as a fulfilled life. Not just shooting for empty numbers.
Working on the person behind the business is key to being a success in business and life. Click here for more information on how to reach your goals.
There are generally 3 steps to setting goals. If a person uses them correctly, it can really become an inspirational force to push you to where you want to be. The problem is, most people set them backwards!
Here is how it usually works:
1. Numbers - We say things like, "Alright...I did $750,000 in sales last year. This year I will do $800,000."
2. Achievements/Milestones - "If I do that much business I will need an assistant to take some stuff off my plate. I know I was working way too much just to keep up this year. So that will be a goal for this year, hire an assistant."
3. Rewards - "Well, after paying that assistant, my net might not be a whole lot different. I do need to reward myself though. Ok. I will take a 2 week trip to Mexico again like I did this year. I should be able to afford that."
Starting with the numbers limits everything. If your goals are limited, so is your imagination. If your imagination is limited, so is your excitement. If your excitement is limited, so is your determination. If your determination is limited, so is your result.
To set an effective goal, flip this system over!
1. Rewards - "I enjoyed my 2 weeks in Mexico last year. This year I want 2 trips. Two weeks in Mexico and 3 weeks in Ireland."
2. Accomplishments/Milestones - "If I am going to be away, I will need someone competent to handle things when I am gone. An assistant won't be enough. I need someone who can actually manage the place. I will hire an manager to work under me in the first half of this year."
3. Numbers - "I know what I want and the major change that will have to happen to make it a reality. I need to pay for it. After crunching the numbers I realize that my business needs to do $900,000 to pay for all of this. I will do at least $900,000 in sales this year. Having that manager in place will take a lot of work off my plate so I can concentrate on sales so I should easily be able to reach that number and not have to work insane hours like last year."
This way creates motivation, drive and determination because it is based on something you want as a person, not just cold numbers at the accountant's office.
In the first system it sounds like this, "I will pick a number that is bigger than last year because that is what businesses are supposed to do right? (P.S. I don't agree that is the case). Then if I hit that number, I will do something nice for myself."
The second is much more powerful because it sounds like this, "I know what I want in my personal life and my business is my tool to provide those things. Here is what I want and here is what my business needs to do to get it for me." Much more powerful! (On a side note, do not be surprised if you need to scale your business back a bit to meet your personal goals. Especially if you are in the case where your business is starting to consume your life)
This year, when you sit down to set your business goals remember, you are a person. You have things that you want to experience in this life and you have people that you want to share your life with. Your business is simply a tool to make those things happen. Set your personal goals and then set your business goals in a way that supports them.
Your personal goals may not be a trip. They may be a new house, more time with your family, more time for yourself, to give a certain amount to a cause or to volunteer more of your time. It is all up to you and there are infinite possibilities. Just concentrate on what you want out of your life, then build your goals around that.
If you set your goals in this way, you will find much more drive to make your business a success. That is because you will be working toward providing what you see as a fulfilled life. Not just shooting for empty numbers.
Working on the person behind the business is key to being a success in business and life. Click here for more information on how to reach your goals.
Sunday, 18 December 2011
The 4 Parts of an Entrepreneur (Part 2)
In Part 1 you read about the artist and the analyst working together within you. Those two come to light at the beginning. They get all the ideas rolling and find ways to make them a reality, if they are working together properly. Once they get to a certain point with their ideas, they need two more parts of your inner entrepreneur to step in. They are the manager and the motivator.
The Manager
Ideas that your artist and analyst create are wonderful, but at some point they need systems and actions put into place to drive them forward. That is where your manager comes in. She is the part of you that takes the ideas and says, "Ok, if this is going to work then we need to do this, this and this...." She makes the plans that will take your realistic idea and make it a profitable business. Your manager is the one that will watch everything that goes on in your business, see what works and make adjustments to the things that don't. She will crunch the numbers and decide how to make them better. She will often come up with problems that she can hand back to the artist and analyst to solve. She will also delegate a certain role to the next character ...
The Motivator
The motivator is the communication specialist within you. This is the part of you that can turn on the charm, do the negotiating, encourage, convince and argue. The motivator is the part of your inner entrepreneur that is shown to the world. Everything created by the artist, analyst and manager come to light through the motivator. She is the part of you helping others to see the value in your dream. She makes sales, gets buy in from employees and shows the public what you are all about.
By combining these 4 parts of you properly; The Artist, The Analyst, The Manager, The Motivator; you will be able to bring your business into the world and know that you have all your basis covered.
Often, one of these 4 will stand out due to an entrepreneurs unique personality. It is very important not to let that happen. To be a well rounded business owner, the 4 must operate in a balanced fashion, aiding each other and performing their specific roles.
In my workshop, "Discovering the Entrepreneur Within" we explore the relationship between these 4 parts. You will learn to identify them, bring their strengths to the surface and make them work as a well oiled machine.
Find these parts of you, give them faces, get to know them and see how easy it becomes to make and act on decisions.
The Manager
Ideas that your artist and analyst create are wonderful, but at some point they need systems and actions put into place to drive them forward. That is where your manager comes in. She is the part of you that takes the ideas and says, "Ok, if this is going to work then we need to do this, this and this...." She makes the plans that will take your realistic idea and make it a profitable business. Your manager is the one that will watch everything that goes on in your business, see what works and make adjustments to the things that don't. She will crunch the numbers and decide how to make them better. She will often come up with problems that she can hand back to the artist and analyst to solve. She will also delegate a certain role to the next character ...
The Motivator
The motivator is the communication specialist within you. This is the part of you that can turn on the charm, do the negotiating, encourage, convince and argue. The motivator is the part of your inner entrepreneur that is shown to the world. Everything created by the artist, analyst and manager come to light through the motivator. She is the part of you helping others to see the value in your dream. She makes sales, gets buy in from employees and shows the public what you are all about.
By combining these 4 parts of you properly; The Artist, The Analyst, The Manager, The Motivator; you will be able to bring your business into the world and know that you have all your basis covered.
Often, one of these 4 will stand out due to an entrepreneurs unique personality. It is very important not to let that happen. To be a well rounded business owner, the 4 must operate in a balanced fashion, aiding each other and performing their specific roles.
In my workshop, "Discovering the Entrepreneur Within" we explore the relationship between these 4 parts. You will learn to identify them, bring their strengths to the surface and make them work as a well oiled machine.
Find these parts of you, give them faces, get to know them and see how easy it becomes to make and act on decisions.
Friday, 16 December 2011
The 4 Parts of an Entrepreneur (Part 1)
Most entrepreneurs find themselves walking through stages in their business as they build it to success. In each of those stages, a certain mindset is needed. The temptation is to completely change your mindset once your business moves into the next stage. Instead, it is important to keep each mindset active as you build your business to success.
I look at my inner entrepreneur as 4 parts. They are the artist, the analyst, the manager and the motivator. (Maybe I shouldn't admit this, but I actually have a character built up for each one, that I can see in my mind as I consult with them.) Perfection is to have all of them active in any decision, working together as a team.
Today I want to introduce you to two of them; the artist and the analyst. Here is what they do:
The Artist
This is the part of you that is present right from the start. He is probably the one who came up with your business idea, then ran with it. The artist is the one that got you all excited and pointed out all of the possibilities to you; some realistic, some maybe out of reach (for now). The artist may not always be the most practical but he is always full of imagination and creativity. Unfortunately, after the initial excitement dies down, the artist often gets pushed aside by the next character, but don't let it. Keep the artist alive and strong at all times.
Who is that next character?
The Analyst
When the analyst steps in he takes everything the artist has dreamed up and says, "Ok, this won't work, that will, this is great,... What on earth were you thinking here?...This part is genius, that part isn't...". Basically, the analyst puts the artists work up against the present reality. Of course, that is a necessary part of bringing your dream to life. Unfortunately it is where many potential entrepreneurs give up. If they see too many objections from the analyst, they completely forget about the artist and forget their dream.
Instead, you must embrace both of these two and get them to work together. The artist creates ideas, the analyst tests them. The analyst identifies challenges and gives it back to the artist. The artist then creates solutions to hand back to the analyst. This cycle continues until a clear and reasonable path to success is found.
If you build this wonderful relationship between your artist and your analyst, you will find that decision making and problem solving become much easier and more fruitful. You will see challenges as things that can be solved or maybe even used to your advantage. Your dream and vision for your idea will stay clear in front of you with a defined path toward it.
In my "Discovering the Entrepreneur Within" workshops, I teach people to first identify and accept their artist and analyst. We learn strategies to draw out the power of each one. Then we explore how to make them work together to make your business a success. We also look at how the other two characters, the manager and the motivator, must be brought into this picture. I will write about those two in another blog article soon.
Until then, work with your artist and analyst. Make them see how they need to work in unison to bring your vision of a successful business to life.
On to Part 2
I look at my inner entrepreneur as 4 parts. They are the artist, the analyst, the manager and the motivator. (Maybe I shouldn't admit this, but I actually have a character built up for each one, that I can see in my mind as I consult with them.) Perfection is to have all of them active in any decision, working together as a team.
Today I want to introduce you to two of them; the artist and the analyst. Here is what they do:
The Artist
This is the part of you that is present right from the start. He is probably the one who came up with your business idea, then ran with it. The artist is the one that got you all excited and pointed out all of the possibilities to you; some realistic, some maybe out of reach (for now). The artist may not always be the most practical but he is always full of imagination and creativity. Unfortunately, after the initial excitement dies down, the artist often gets pushed aside by the next character, but don't let it. Keep the artist alive and strong at all times.
Who is that next character?
The Analyst
When the analyst steps in he takes everything the artist has dreamed up and says, "Ok, this won't work, that will, this is great,... What on earth were you thinking here?...This part is genius, that part isn't...". Basically, the analyst puts the artists work up against the present reality. Of course, that is a necessary part of bringing your dream to life. Unfortunately it is where many potential entrepreneurs give up. If they see too many objections from the analyst, they completely forget about the artist and forget their dream.
Instead, you must embrace both of these two and get them to work together. The artist creates ideas, the analyst tests them. The analyst identifies challenges and gives it back to the artist. The artist then creates solutions to hand back to the analyst. This cycle continues until a clear and reasonable path to success is found.
If you build this wonderful relationship between your artist and your analyst, you will find that decision making and problem solving become much easier and more fruitful. You will see challenges as things that can be solved or maybe even used to your advantage. Your dream and vision for your idea will stay clear in front of you with a defined path toward it.
In my "Discovering the Entrepreneur Within" workshops, I teach people to first identify and accept their artist and analyst. We learn strategies to draw out the power of each one. Then we explore how to make them work together to make your business a success. We also look at how the other two characters, the manager and the motivator, must be brought into this picture. I will write about those two in another blog article soon.
Until then, work with your artist and analyst. Make them see how they need to work in unison to bring your vision of a successful business to life.
On to Part 2
Monday, 12 December 2011
Business Grade 6 Style!
Today I finished up a series of classes called "A Business of Our Own" with a grade 6 class in Glenora school. The program is provided by Junior Achievement and delivered by volunteers like myself. The idea is for the kids to plan, build and operate their own business within their school. It comes completely from their own ideas and I act only as a consultant and guide.
I worked with this class over a period of 5 weeks. Their business was a snack stand to be operated during a book sale at their school. They borrowed $200 from a class fund they had as their initial investment. They divided themselves into groups that would be responsible for different parts of the business and they went to work.
They experienced all of the phases a new business would go through. The initial excitement, the pie-in-the-sky ideas, the slap of reality, the realistic business plan that follows the slap, the vision of a common goal, the squabbling on how to reach that goal, the productivity that comes from teamwork and finally the reward of seeing a functioning and very successful business in the end. Most entrepreneurs go through these stages over the course of several months, if not years. This group of kids dealt with it in a few weeks.
They saw a gross income of over $500 from the $200 investment. That is a 150% return on investment for a month of work! If only we could see that kind of return in our own businesses on a regular basis.
If there is one thing I see in them and wish I could give to every entrepreneur I know, it is their lack of fear. Granted, they were working in a safe environment, (if they lost money it wouldn't mean they would have to pay it back out of their pocket) but it was amazing to watch how they would make decisions when they didn't have fear of failure blinding them.
These kids had no business knowledge but that would not stop them. They looked at what they had to do, asked questions and found ways to learn the things they needed to know. They used creativity and curiosity to find ways to make their business work.
Personally, I will strive to have that same attitude when I face business decisions in areas I am not so skilled in. Like those kids, I will set the fear aside so that it doesn't block my view. Then look around for the answer. If it isn't there in the open, I will find creative ways to dig for it. Once I find it, I will implement it confidently. Operating outside of fear can lead only to progress. An earlier article I wrote asks the question, "What would you do if your weren't afraid?" I think the kids in that class were a living answer to that.
Do the same for yourself! Just try it! I know fear will always be there, especially in the early stages of business, but try ignoring it. Don't let it be a factor! Focus on removing fear from situations you face as you build your business. See the clear paths that appear when you remove that hindering emotion. Then walk down those paths confidently knowing that fear did not influence you or hold you back.
In the end, all of the profits they created were donated to the Stollery Children's Hospital, providing yet another good example for this world to look at.
So thank you to the grade 6 class of Glenora school for being a great example to the business world in many ways. If any of you from the class are reading this, I sincerely hope you learned something valuable that will help you in the future. Please know that I have learned some very valuable lessons from all of you as well.
I worked with this class over a period of 5 weeks. Their business was a snack stand to be operated during a book sale at their school. They borrowed $200 from a class fund they had as their initial investment. They divided themselves into groups that would be responsible for different parts of the business and they went to work.
They experienced all of the phases a new business would go through. The initial excitement, the pie-in-the-sky ideas, the slap of reality, the realistic business plan that follows the slap, the vision of a common goal, the squabbling on how to reach that goal, the productivity that comes from teamwork and finally the reward of seeing a functioning and very successful business in the end. Most entrepreneurs go through these stages over the course of several months, if not years. This group of kids dealt with it in a few weeks.
They saw a gross income of over $500 from the $200 investment. That is a 150% return on investment for a month of work! If only we could see that kind of return in our own businesses on a regular basis.
If there is one thing I see in them and wish I could give to every entrepreneur I know, it is their lack of fear. Granted, they were working in a safe environment, (if they lost money it wouldn't mean they would have to pay it back out of their pocket) but it was amazing to watch how they would make decisions when they didn't have fear of failure blinding them.
These kids had no business knowledge but that would not stop them. They looked at what they had to do, asked questions and found ways to learn the things they needed to know. They used creativity and curiosity to find ways to make their business work.
Personally, I will strive to have that same attitude when I face business decisions in areas I am not so skilled in. Like those kids, I will set the fear aside so that it doesn't block my view. Then look around for the answer. If it isn't there in the open, I will find creative ways to dig for it. Once I find it, I will implement it confidently. Operating outside of fear can lead only to progress. An earlier article I wrote asks the question, "What would you do if your weren't afraid?" I think the kids in that class were a living answer to that.
Do the same for yourself! Just try it! I know fear will always be there, especially in the early stages of business, but try ignoring it. Don't let it be a factor! Focus on removing fear from situations you face as you build your business. See the clear paths that appear when you remove that hindering emotion. Then walk down those paths confidently knowing that fear did not influence you or hold you back.
In the end, all of the profits they created were donated to the Stollery Children's Hospital, providing yet another good example for this world to look at.
So thank you to the grade 6 class of Glenora school for being a great example to the business world in many ways. If any of you from the class are reading this, I sincerely hope you learned something valuable that will help you in the future. Please know that I have learned some very valuable lessons from all of you as well.
Sunday, 11 December 2011
You are Not Your Business
For entrepreneurs, a constant danger is getting eaten by your business. (Normally I would use the word "consumed" there, but that just isn't graphic enough). You can get eaten! If you aren't careful, your business can take you and wrap you up so tightly within itself that you start to believe you are a single creature.
I see this in every industry but it really stood out to me during my time in real estate. So many real estate agents had sacrificed their own personal goals and replaced them with business goals. So many had lost meaningful touch with their families while trying to further their business. So many had started basing their own personal self worth on how many sales they were making. This type of behavior exists in every industry. It is a slippery slope that ends in bitterness, even if the business that has eaten you does well.
You and your business are two separate entities and you must constantly remind yourself to keep it that way. If you don't, you will start to experience some of the things I listed in the last paragraph. Your personal values and feelings of worth will end up being dependent on the success of your business. Your businesses operates on a different field than your personal life. If you let the business take over how you run your life it will end up being a hollow experience. You see, a business cannot provide what a fulfilled life needs. It can provide the tools to gaining a fulfilled life, but only you as a person (not as a business) can truly experience your life to the fullest based on your personal values (not on those of your business).
I know, I know. This line can be very grey, especially if you run a business that was based on something that makes you feel fulfilled as a person. But it is imperative that you retain your personal identity outside of your business to keep your life and your business healthy. As soon as the two start to become one, bad decisions get made on both ends. Business decisions end up having too much of your personal interests involved (i.e. hiring your very unqualified nephew to avoid offending a family member). Your personal interests end up being dictated by your business (i.e. You're time at home with your family is dictated by how much work needs to get done each day.)
To keep these two separate, start with making two sets of goals. One for your business and one for yourself. Your business goals may include a certain sales volume or profit, a milestone of some sort or possibly an expansion. Your personal goal list will be things that you want for yourself and those you love. Maybe a trip or a house or a certain amount of time spent with someone. Only you know what should be on your lists. After you see what your two separate lists of goals look like, then give attention to making them BOTH successful. Clearly define what you must do as a person and what your business must do. Do not mix them!
When you are working toward your business goals, make decisions and carry out actions that reflect the values and interests of the business. Have a place where you think only in business terms. An office that when you walk in, your mind says, "It's business time."
When you are working on your personal goals, enjoy it! Don't let your mind start working while you are spending time with family or friends. Know that your business is doing its thing off in the distance and that right now you are being a person and enjoying your life.
When you are working on your business, focus on it! When you are working toward your personal goals and enjoying your personal life, focus on it! Keep them separate, give them both the attention they need. You and your business will both benefit and you will not get eaten.
I see this in every industry but it really stood out to me during my time in real estate. So many real estate agents had sacrificed their own personal goals and replaced them with business goals. So many had lost meaningful touch with their families while trying to further their business. So many had started basing their own personal self worth on how many sales they were making. This type of behavior exists in every industry. It is a slippery slope that ends in bitterness, even if the business that has eaten you does well.
You and your business are two separate entities and you must constantly remind yourself to keep it that way. If you don't, you will start to experience some of the things I listed in the last paragraph. Your personal values and feelings of worth will end up being dependent on the success of your business. Your businesses operates on a different field than your personal life. If you let the business take over how you run your life it will end up being a hollow experience. You see, a business cannot provide what a fulfilled life needs. It can provide the tools to gaining a fulfilled life, but only you as a person (not as a business) can truly experience your life to the fullest based on your personal values (not on those of your business).
I know, I know. This line can be very grey, especially if you run a business that was based on something that makes you feel fulfilled as a person. But it is imperative that you retain your personal identity outside of your business to keep your life and your business healthy. As soon as the two start to become one, bad decisions get made on both ends. Business decisions end up having too much of your personal interests involved (i.e. hiring your very unqualified nephew to avoid offending a family member). Your personal interests end up being dictated by your business (i.e. You're time at home with your family is dictated by how much work needs to get done each day.)
To keep these two separate, start with making two sets of goals. One for your business and one for yourself. Your business goals may include a certain sales volume or profit, a milestone of some sort or possibly an expansion. Your personal goal list will be things that you want for yourself and those you love. Maybe a trip or a house or a certain amount of time spent with someone. Only you know what should be on your lists. After you see what your two separate lists of goals look like, then give attention to making them BOTH successful. Clearly define what you must do as a person and what your business must do. Do not mix them!
When you are working toward your business goals, make decisions and carry out actions that reflect the values and interests of the business. Have a place where you think only in business terms. An office that when you walk in, your mind says, "It's business time."
When you are working on your personal goals, enjoy it! Don't let your mind start working while you are spending time with family or friends. Know that your business is doing its thing off in the distance and that right now you are being a person and enjoying your life.
When you are working on your business, focus on it! When you are working toward your personal goals and enjoying your personal life, focus on it! Keep them separate, give them both the attention they need. You and your business will both benefit and you will not get eaten.
Wednesday, 7 December 2011
Icy Roads, Country Music and Self Discovery
Last night I was driving back to Edmonton from Calgary after looking at venues to host a "Discover the Entrepreneur Within" workshop. It was a relatively slow drive due to falling snow and I was getting tired of my usual music playlist. Digging into my console, I found an old CD with mostly '90's country music. Putting it in brought back all sorts of memories that I hadn't visited in a long time. Among them was a Clint Black song called "No Time To Kill". I remember listening to it as a teenager and not really "getting it". Last night a line stuck out to me like it never had before and I started to "get it".
The line went like this, "If we'd know 10 years ago today would be 10 years from now, would we spend tomorrow's yesterdays and make it last somehow."
That's a real mouthful and will probably take a couple reads to wrap your brain around if you are anything like me. In essence, it made me think back on all the time I had "wasted" over the past decade. I know that there were times where I could have accomplished more than I did. I could have worked harder to build business faster. But just when I started to think that I should make sure I pour tons of work into every moment from now until I die, another line caught me.
"No time to kill but time to change the kind of hurry I've been in."
If I am going to look back on the last 10 years and decide if I wasted time or not, I had better decide what is important to me first.
Sure, I probably could have pushed harder in business to make more money. I could have spent more time analyzing and growing my business. But you know what? When I look back, I am more than happy with where things are in that part of my life. I take pride in the fact that I spend a lot of time and energy enjoying time with my kids, family and my close friends. I see no "wasted time" in either of those realms. Where I do feel I "killed time" was in rewarding myself. Times that I could have done something nice for myself I often filled with chores or some other thing that really wasn't that important. So, I decided on that drive home that, over my next 10 years, I am going to make some time for me.
Look back at your last decade. What parts are you happy about? What parts would you change? Decide now to take control of that. Decide now to spend the next 10 years using time to the advantage of things that are important to you.
One last line from the song to sum all this up. If you get a chance, take a listen (And yes I sang this at the top of my lungs about 6 times over during that drive. My steering wheel is my biggest fan.)
"The highest cost livin's dyin' and that's one everybody pays. So have it spent before you get the bill, there's no time to kill."
The line went like this, "If we'd know 10 years ago today would be 10 years from now, would we spend tomorrow's yesterdays and make it last somehow."
That's a real mouthful and will probably take a couple reads to wrap your brain around if you are anything like me. In essence, it made me think back on all the time I had "wasted" over the past decade. I know that there were times where I could have accomplished more than I did. I could have worked harder to build business faster. But just when I started to think that I should make sure I pour tons of work into every moment from now until I die, another line caught me.
"No time to kill but time to change the kind of hurry I've been in."
If I am going to look back on the last 10 years and decide if I wasted time or not, I had better decide what is important to me first.
Sure, I probably could have pushed harder in business to make more money. I could have spent more time analyzing and growing my business. But you know what? When I look back, I am more than happy with where things are in that part of my life. I take pride in the fact that I spend a lot of time and energy enjoying time with my kids, family and my close friends. I see no "wasted time" in either of those realms. Where I do feel I "killed time" was in rewarding myself. Times that I could have done something nice for myself I often filled with chores or some other thing that really wasn't that important. So, I decided on that drive home that, over my next 10 years, I am going to make some time for me.
Look back at your last decade. What parts are you happy about? What parts would you change? Decide now to take control of that. Decide now to spend the next 10 years using time to the advantage of things that are important to you.
One last line from the song to sum all this up. If you get a chance, take a listen (And yes I sang this at the top of my lungs about 6 times over during that drive. My steering wheel is my biggest fan.)
"The highest cost livin's dyin' and that's one everybody pays. So have it spent before you get the bill, there's no time to kill."
Friday, 2 December 2011
Entrepreneur: Crazy or Genius?
Dear Entrepreneur, society has been trained to think you are crazy.
Because of the risks involved in entrepreneurship, most of your family, friends and other people around you are going to think you are crazy. They may not say it to your face, but they will probably be thinking it inside. They have seen the stats, they have heard the horror stories and the failures. They will dwell on those negative thoughts out of concern for you. What they will fail to realize is that every bit of shopping they do and every service they use is a success story. They will not be able to visualize what you do and will have trouble seeing you as one of the successes. You know differently though and must look past their doubt so that you can build your dream into a reality and prove them wrong.
The funny thing is, when you succeed, society will suddenly think you are a genius!
Then they will be coming to you asking how you did it. Asking if you could help them do the same.
My entrepreneurial hero is Sir Richard Branson, the owner of the Virgin group of companies with over 400 companies under his private umbrella. He left school when he was 16 years old as he was having trouble with his studies due to dyslexia. He tried selling Christmas trees and budgies with no success. Then he started a newspaper for students. This found great success and he expanded, bringing a small staff into a crypt to use as an office. Once the paper seemed to be maxing out their circulation, he started selling records by mail order on the side, using his own paper to advertise. From there, Virgin records was born. Over the years he branched into retail record stores, soft drinks, airlines, television, radio, financial services, cellular communications and even space travel! The thing that I love the most is that he did not venture into these ventures because he understood them. He entered them because he saw a need and wanted to fill it for the consumer. He had the vision and then surrounded himself with people with the technical know how. He then motivated them and managed then to a mutual success. He is no were near finished either. I am always excited to hear of his next idea.
I am sure Mr. Branson had his share of people telling him he was insane (he probably still hears it from time to time) but is now seen by most as an absolute business genius.
Don't let it bother you that people think you are crazy for wanting to build your own business. Listen to constructive criticism but dismiss those that just write off entrepreneurship as a whole. They think you are crazy now, but wait until they see you 5 years from now. They will marvel at what you have built.
Saturday, 26 November 2011
Know Who Is In Your Circle
If I talk about a new business plan to close friends and family, there are a few responses I can count on hearing:
My mother will say, "Oh no! Can't you just be satisfied with where you are at? What if it fails?"
My friend Don will say. "Wow! That's awesome! You go man!"
My friend Stacy will say, "That sounds like a great idea! Your only only big challenge might be ... "
When you are building a business it is very important to know who is around you and what effect they have on you. This is especially important during those early stages of bringing the dream to reality. When you explain your dream to people, they are going to react to it and you are going to see that reaction. If that person is someone close to you, you will be affected by that reaction.
Generally, you can put these people into 3 categories:
1. Caring Detractors
2. Biggest Fans
3. Motivating Realists
Knowing who fits into what category and planning on how to deal with them can save you a lot of strife. I have several people in each category so I will give you some examples:
Caring Detractor
My mother fits this category. Anytime I speak of a new idea, investment or business; she feels that it is her job to talk me out of it. No matter how solid the plan, she has to say , "Don't do it!" The trick for me is remembering why she does this. It is because she hates risk and fears change when it comes to the lives of her children.
I am sure you have similar people around you. When you talk about new ideas, they automatically try to "protect" you from the worst. They may have had bad experiences themselves that have led them to believe that entrepreneurship is something dangerous. They may just lack the creativity to see how an idea can become a successful venture. Either way, they try to dissuade you out of concern for you.
(There is another type of detractor. The kind that wants to dissuade you out of jealousy or bitterness. Not wanting success for you. These people should not be in your circle, so lets just forget about them)
Biggest Fans
I have few friends that fit in this category, they cheer me on and say, "What a great idea!" no matter what I am talking about. Don is one of these friends. He wants me to feel good and will say whatever he has to in order to accomplish that. He is a great friend and I wouldn't trade him for the world, but I have to be careful how much weight I put in his enthusiasm and encouragement.
You probably have some of these as well. They are great for the ego. They are great for making you feel like the worthy person you are when you may be feeling less than worthy. Listen to what these people say and enjoy it. They are sincere. They love you and want the best for you. Just make sure that you don't place all of your stock in their comments. They will make you feel great about your idea but may make you blind to issues that need to be addressed.
That's where this next group comes in ...
Motivating Realists
These are hard to find but I do have a few in my life. Stacy is one of these. She wants me to succeed and will encourage and cheer me on, but at the same time, she will bring to light any snags in my plan. She has the courage to tell me the things I might not want to hear. She will point out bumps in the road that I may have to deal with. She offers me a perfect mix of encouragement and realism. When she sees potential problems she points them out and then helps me think through to a solution.
If you have some of these people around you, grab on to them and hold them close through the building of your business. They can be a huge contribution to your success. These people have usually taken some risks themselves and have been rewarded for it. They understand that a bit of hard going and uncertainty in the beginning can pay off a million times over in the future. They care about your success and are honest about the pros and cons of your plan.
Knowing who is around you and which type of person they are is a great way to avoid stress.
Know ahead of time that the detractors will try to stop you and handle your communication with them accordingly. (I don't tell my mother anything until I have already done it).
Know that your fans will cheer you on. Tell them what you are doing and bask in the encouragement they will offer. Just don't get blinded by that wonderful spotlight they put on you.
Know that the realists will be straight with you. Tell them what you are doing and then listen closely to what they say. It may not always be what you want to hear but it will always be helpful.
Balance these three and then go ahead knowing that, when it comes down to it, YOU are the key to making your dream a reality.
My mother will say, "Oh no! Can't you just be satisfied with where you are at? What if it fails?"
My friend Don will say. "Wow! That's awesome! You go man!"
My friend Stacy will say, "That sounds like a great idea! Your only only big challenge might be ... "
When you are building a business it is very important to know who is around you and what effect they have on you. This is especially important during those early stages of bringing the dream to reality. When you explain your dream to people, they are going to react to it and you are going to see that reaction. If that person is someone close to you, you will be affected by that reaction.
Generally, you can put these people into 3 categories:
1. Caring Detractors
2. Biggest Fans
3. Motivating Realists
Knowing who fits into what category and planning on how to deal with them can save you a lot of strife. I have several people in each category so I will give you some examples:
Caring Detractor
My mother fits this category. Anytime I speak of a new idea, investment or business; she feels that it is her job to talk me out of it. No matter how solid the plan, she has to say , "Don't do it!" The trick for me is remembering why she does this. It is because she hates risk and fears change when it comes to the lives of her children.
I am sure you have similar people around you. When you talk about new ideas, they automatically try to "protect" you from the worst. They may have had bad experiences themselves that have led them to believe that entrepreneurship is something dangerous. They may just lack the creativity to see how an idea can become a successful venture. Either way, they try to dissuade you out of concern for you.
(There is another type of detractor. The kind that wants to dissuade you out of jealousy or bitterness. Not wanting success for you. These people should not be in your circle, so lets just forget about them)
Biggest Fans
I have few friends that fit in this category, they cheer me on and say, "What a great idea!" no matter what I am talking about. Don is one of these friends. He wants me to feel good and will say whatever he has to in order to accomplish that. He is a great friend and I wouldn't trade him for the world, but I have to be careful how much weight I put in his enthusiasm and encouragement.
You probably have some of these as well. They are great for the ego. They are great for making you feel like the worthy person you are when you may be feeling less than worthy. Listen to what these people say and enjoy it. They are sincere. They love you and want the best for you. Just make sure that you don't place all of your stock in their comments. They will make you feel great about your idea but may make you blind to issues that need to be addressed.
That's where this next group comes in ...
Motivating Realists
These are hard to find but I do have a few in my life. Stacy is one of these. She wants me to succeed and will encourage and cheer me on, but at the same time, she will bring to light any snags in my plan. She has the courage to tell me the things I might not want to hear. She will point out bumps in the road that I may have to deal with. She offers me a perfect mix of encouragement and realism. When she sees potential problems she points them out and then helps me think through to a solution.
If you have some of these people around you, grab on to them and hold them close through the building of your business. They can be a huge contribution to your success. These people have usually taken some risks themselves and have been rewarded for it. They understand that a bit of hard going and uncertainty in the beginning can pay off a million times over in the future. They care about your success and are honest about the pros and cons of your plan.
Knowing who is around you and which type of person they are is a great way to avoid stress.
Know ahead of time that the detractors will try to stop you and handle your communication with them accordingly. (I don't tell my mother anything until I have already done it).
Know that your fans will cheer you on. Tell them what you are doing and bask in the encouragement they will offer. Just don't get blinded by that wonderful spotlight they put on you.
Know that the realists will be straight with you. Tell them what you are doing and then listen closely to what they say. It may not always be what you want to hear but it will always be helpful.
Balance these three and then go ahead knowing that, when it comes down to it, YOU are the key to making your dream a reality.
Thursday, 24 November 2011
What Would You Do If You Were't Afraid?
Entrepreneurs, especially those in the early stages of business, know that fear is a factor that must be dealt with on an almost daily basis.
What if people don't buy into my service?
What if the bank doesn't come through?
What if this big sale doesn't come together?
What if...
What if...
What if...
I am sure you have some personal fears you can complete those sentences with.
Fear is a natural reaction to uncertain circumstances and an unknown future. It is a survival tool after all. Fear is in us to warn us of things that could harm us. We fear falling off of things because the landing could kill us. We fear disease because it can ruin our lives. We fear our business failing because it means we could go broke.The trick is taking that fear and working through it. It can be a great tool if used properly.
I find this one question very helpful. When faced with something scary I ask myself, "What would I do if I wasn't afraid?" This question takes the emotion of fear out of the equation and lets me focus on what the logical approach to a situation should be.
A common example is public speaking. You have a presentation to make in 3 days and you are nervous because it is a very advanced audience you will be speaking to. They know their stuff and expect the same of you. You can sit and worry about making a fool of yourself, or you can ask, "What would I do if I wasn't afraid."
Your answer would likely be, "I would..."
...research the topic thoroughly.
...focus on writing accurate and interesting content.
...rehearse the speech several times.
...walk out onto the stage confidently on that day.
...present my thoughts in a fluid and engaging way.
You already know what you need to do in order to be successful. If you can side step the fear for a moment and concentrate on what needs to be done, you can alleviate that fear. As you go through the actions you prescribed for yourself, your confidence in success will return as you are consciously taking steps toward it.
Afraid that the bank won't say yes to your business loan? What would you do if you weren't afraid?
Afraid that your first customers won't like your product? What would you do if you were't afraid?
Afraid that your new employee won't perform well? What would you do if you weren't afraid?
Afraid to quit your day job and build your business full time? What would you do if you weren't afraid?
Fear will be present in your life as an entrepreneur. Acknowledge that there is a reason you are afraid, then ask what you would do if you were't. The answer to the problem causing the fear is usually right around the corner.
What if people don't buy into my service?
What if the bank doesn't come through?
What if this big sale doesn't come together?
What if...
What if...
What if...
I am sure you have some personal fears you can complete those sentences with.
Fear is a natural reaction to uncertain circumstances and an unknown future. It is a survival tool after all. Fear is in us to warn us of things that could harm us. We fear falling off of things because the landing could kill us. We fear disease because it can ruin our lives. We fear our business failing because it means we could go broke.The trick is taking that fear and working through it. It can be a great tool if used properly.
I find this one question very helpful. When faced with something scary I ask myself, "What would I do if I wasn't afraid?" This question takes the emotion of fear out of the equation and lets me focus on what the logical approach to a situation should be.
A common example is public speaking. You have a presentation to make in 3 days and you are nervous because it is a very advanced audience you will be speaking to. They know their stuff and expect the same of you. You can sit and worry about making a fool of yourself, or you can ask, "What would I do if I wasn't afraid."
Your answer would likely be, "I would..."
...research the topic thoroughly.
...focus on writing accurate and interesting content.
...rehearse the speech several times.
...walk out onto the stage confidently on that day.
...present my thoughts in a fluid and engaging way.
You already know what you need to do in order to be successful. If you can side step the fear for a moment and concentrate on what needs to be done, you can alleviate that fear. As you go through the actions you prescribed for yourself, your confidence in success will return as you are consciously taking steps toward it.
Afraid that the bank won't say yes to your business loan? What would you do if you weren't afraid?
Afraid that your first customers won't like your product? What would you do if you were't afraid?
Afraid that your new employee won't perform well? What would you do if you weren't afraid?
Afraid to quit your day job and build your business full time? What would you do if you weren't afraid?
Fear will be present in your life as an entrepreneur. Acknowledge that there is a reason you are afraid, then ask what you would do if you were't. The answer to the problem causing the fear is usually right around the corner.
Tuesday, 22 November 2011
Human Resources or Powerful Partners?
I have trouble with the phrase "human resources". Maybe I have an odd way of viewing it but I don't think I am alone. To me, it brings to mind a company seeing it's people as usable objects, like something they could take inventory on. "Lets see, we have 37 computers, 4 cars and 21 humans."
Its just semantics, I know; but it begs the questions, "How should a company view it's employees?"
The first thing to understand is that people (the humans that are the employees of your company) are motivated by their own goals and needs. They are only going to be interested in your company as far as it is able to meet their needs. This isn't a selfish thing, it is simply human nature. We all need to have food and shelter, we all need to feel good about our lives, we all need to provide for the ones we love, we all need to feel like we are important, we all need to have time to enjoy life, we all need to feel like we are bettering our lives (and the lives of those we love) every day. Every person has these same basic needs no matter their position within an organization.
Employees can be treated either as faceless resources or like valuable people. And guess what ... The way that they act and feel toward your company is directly effected by that!
A person who is treated like a replaceable part of your organization will act like a replaceable part of your organization. Pay them the bottom end of what their position commands, give them a drab office, never ask for their input, never praise them for a job well done, hold fast to schedules without regard for their personal life and only speak to them when you need something. How hard do you think they will work to build your company? How much effort will they put in? Will they go above and beyond to help you reach the goals you have for the company? Of course not. Instead, they will be tossing resumes around hoping to find something to get them the heck away from you and your company. In this kind of situation, none of their personal needs are being met. Why on earth would they stay and show interest in bettering the position of you and your company if you show no interest in bettering their position in life?
If you employ a person, commit to treating them in a way fitting of someone who is helping you towards your goals, because that is exactly what they are doing! They are taking care of things for your business so that it can meet and exceed the goals you have set for it. Of course, paying people properly is a great way to make them feel valuable, but there are hundreds of other ways as well. For example:
In short, people need to feel valuable. If they feel valuable they will act valuable. They will want to push your company towards its goals because they feel like an important part of it. They will look for the things that can be improved and point them out to you. They will creatively think of ways to make customers happy. They will put in the extra time or effort needed to ensure the business runs smoothly. Why? because they know that taking care of your company's needs will in turn take care of their own needs. They will know that they are an integral part of your company's success and they will be proud of that fact. They will act in a way that benefits your business because it gives them a sense of pride and security to be a part of a successful venture. You see, it is a symbiotic relationship. Your business needs your employees and your employees need your business. If you take care of them, they will take care of you.
You, as the employer, set the tone of your organization. Present it as a company that values its people and your people will be very valuable to you. You will not see them as a resource, but as partners working toward the same goal.
Its just semantics, I know; but it begs the questions, "How should a company view it's employees?"
The first thing to understand is that people (the humans that are the employees of your company) are motivated by their own goals and needs. They are only going to be interested in your company as far as it is able to meet their needs. This isn't a selfish thing, it is simply human nature. We all need to have food and shelter, we all need to feel good about our lives, we all need to provide for the ones we love, we all need to feel like we are important, we all need to have time to enjoy life, we all need to feel like we are bettering our lives (and the lives of those we love) every day. Every person has these same basic needs no matter their position within an organization.
Employees can be treated either as faceless resources or like valuable people. And guess what ... The way that they act and feel toward your company is directly effected by that!
A person who is treated like a replaceable part of your organization will act like a replaceable part of your organization. Pay them the bottom end of what their position commands, give them a drab office, never ask for their input, never praise them for a job well done, hold fast to schedules without regard for their personal life and only speak to them when you need something. How hard do you think they will work to build your company? How much effort will they put in? Will they go above and beyond to help you reach the goals you have for the company? Of course not. Instead, they will be tossing resumes around hoping to find something to get them the heck away from you and your company. In this kind of situation, none of their personal needs are being met. Why on earth would they stay and show interest in bettering the position of you and your company if you show no interest in bettering their position in life?
If you employ a person, commit to treating them in a way fitting of someone who is helping you towards your goals, because that is exactly what they are doing! They are taking care of things for your business so that it can meet and exceed the goals you have set for it. Of course, paying people properly is a great way to make them feel valuable, but there are hundreds of other ways as well. For example:
- Give them a comfortable place to work. Somewhere they feel proud to work from.
- Schedule their hours in a way that shows you understand that they have a life outside of work.
- Make time to "chat" once in a while. (An off topic chat may seem like a waste, but it is an investment.)
- Publicly recognize their successes.
- Genuinely ask for their input when decisions are being made.
- Share the glory for your company's successes with them.
In short, people need to feel valuable. If they feel valuable they will act valuable. They will want to push your company towards its goals because they feel like an important part of it. They will look for the things that can be improved and point them out to you. They will creatively think of ways to make customers happy. They will put in the extra time or effort needed to ensure the business runs smoothly. Why? because they know that taking care of your company's needs will in turn take care of their own needs. They will know that they are an integral part of your company's success and they will be proud of that fact. They will act in a way that benefits your business because it gives them a sense of pride and security to be a part of a successful venture. You see, it is a symbiotic relationship. Your business needs your employees and your employees need your business. If you take care of them, they will take care of you.
You, as the employer, set the tone of your organization. Present it as a company that values its people and your people will be very valuable to you. You will not see them as a resource, but as partners working toward the same goal.
Tuesday, 15 November 2011
Keep Your Creative Mind Strong
There was a time I didn't need the gym. I was young and constantly doing physical things. I could eat anything I wanted and I wouldn't gain an ounce of fat. Now the story is different. I'm past the age where I can rely on my metabolism to keep me thin. Now I have to watch what I eat and make a point of staying active to keep in good shape. Fortunately, I enjoy my time at the gym. I find it to be a very creative place. While my body does the exercises, my mind can go in all sorts of directions often finding some interesting thoughts to ponder.
Today I realized that it isn't downtime that my mind is getting in the gym. It is a workout of its own. It is when the creative side of my entrepreneurial spirit gets to come out. (It happens in other places as well, my shower at home and my car being the best of all.) Without this time though, my creative side would constantly be overshadowed by the analytical side. When I am in the office speaking with clients, it is most often my analytical side that is doing the work. It stays strong on its own because of this constant activity. My creative side, though, only gets to come out when I am in certain situations (IE. gyms, cars or showers).
It is incredibly important for all entrepreneurs to keep that creative side active. If you are in business for yourself, you likely remember the moment when the dream of entrepreneurship popped into your head. It was wonderful wasn't it? The rush of suddenly seeing the world differently. A world opened up by the vision you had for your product or service. The feeling of unlimited potential, of all the possibilities ahead. That was the creative side of you shining through.
Many entrepreneurs lose touch with that creative side. Once they make their dream a reality, they fall into the trap of indulging only their analytical side in order to run the business on a day to day basis. Businesses need to deal in cold hard facts and numbers if they are to succeed, so there is a place for the analytical mind without a doubt. However, it should not overshadow the creative mind.
Creative thinking is where you are going to find ways to expand your business, please customers and create a great environment for your employees. It is how you will see not only where your business is going, but where it could go. It will allow you to step out of the numbers and see your business as an organism in a huge world where it plays a part. It will help you to see other parts your business could play, or perhaps an idea for a whole new business. It will keep that anxious urge to create alive in you, and that is the road to a wonderful life full of accomplishment! Shut all that down and you become a simple manager. Is that why you started your own business? To be a manager? I highly doubt it.
Take the time to keep your creative side active. Find that place or activity that opens you up in that way. Make a point of being in those situations that allow your mind to roam free. Keep seeing those opportunities in that wide open world that you first saw when you dreamed your business into being. Look at the road ahead through your creative eyes and marvel at the possibilities.
Tuesday, 8 November 2011
Chickens, Crocodiles and Great Business Ideas
Rancid, decomposing chicken carcasses would turn almost anyone's stomach. It was no different for a chicken farmer I heard about today. But his disgust lead to business success!
He had a farm that produced hundreds of thousands of chickens. Although his farm was far above average when it came to the conditions for his birds, he still had hundreds of dead chickens each week. He tried burying them but ran out of room, he tried incinerating them but it was too costly, he tried composting them but it was much too disgusting. Each week he was left with a disgusting mess.
On a family trip, he stopped in at a crocodile farm so that he and his kids could watch the mighty reptiles. By chance, he noticed that they were being fed chicken carcasses! An idea was born! He went through the proper channels and legally acquired 2 breeding crocodiles. He made a proper enclosure for them at his farm, fed them the dead chickens and watched them make babies. It didn't take long for him to have his own crocodile farm which people were paying to see!
Out of his frustration, his creative juices flowed. Not only did he solve a major problem for his main business, he also ended up creating a second successful business as a result!
When you are frustrated with a task or a tool, don't just storm away angry. Take some time to look for a creative solution. You may find a solution that makes your life much easier, save your business some money and maybe even stumble upon a great business idea that you can run with.
He had a farm that produced hundreds of thousands of chickens. Although his farm was far above average when it came to the conditions for his birds, he still had hundreds of dead chickens each week. He tried burying them but ran out of room, he tried incinerating them but it was too costly, he tried composting them but it was much too disgusting. Each week he was left with a disgusting mess.
On a family trip, he stopped in at a crocodile farm so that he and his kids could watch the mighty reptiles. By chance, he noticed that they were being fed chicken carcasses! An idea was born! He went through the proper channels and legally acquired 2 breeding crocodiles. He made a proper enclosure for them at his farm, fed them the dead chickens and watched them make babies. It didn't take long for him to have his own crocodile farm which people were paying to see!
Out of his frustration, his creative juices flowed. Not only did he solve a major problem for his main business, he also ended up creating a second successful business as a result!
When you are frustrated with a task or a tool, don't just storm away angry. Take some time to look for a creative solution. You may find a solution that makes your life much easier, save your business some money and maybe even stumble upon a great business idea that you can run with.
Entrepreneurs: Examine Your Hat Collection
Starting up a new business means that you will have to wear many hats. The problem is, not every hat is going to fit you perfectly. Knowing what hats to wear and which hats to put on someone else's head can be the difference between a business success or a business nightmare.
In your business' infancy, you MUST wear all the hats. I say must, because even if you have the ability to hire a staff right off the bat, it is necessary to understand your business from every angle. Immerse yourself in it, sign every check, examine every invoice, talk to every customer. Really get to understand everything about it so that you appreciate every nuance that goes on in the belly of what you have created.
Soon though, you need to ensure that the right people are wearing the right hats.
Most entrepreneurs are of the creative type. They see the world a bit differently than most people do. They see opportunities to improve things and shake the system up to make it better. If this is you, then put that hat on. Look at your business from all of those angles and use your creativity to change the things that can be improved. That may mean that you need to have a manager in place to take care of the day to day maintenance type decisions. You may need sales people to handle the finding of customers or clients. You may need an accountant to crunch the numbers. Find the right people for those jobs so that you can concentrate on wearing that hat of creativity to steer your business in the ways it must go.
You may be of a different set though. Some entrepreneurs have incredible technical knowledge of the product they are producing but may not have the business savvy to take it to the public successfully. If that is you, wear the right hat. Surround yourself with a dynamic manager and sales staff who can take care of getting your product out to the public while you put your skills to use where no one else can, perfecting what it is you have created.
Every entrepreneur is different. To be successful, you must be honest about what your true skills are and where you are lacking. You must then be willing to find others who have skills where you are lacking to create a well tuned business.
In the beginning, wear all the hats for a bit so that you know how they all fit. But then, examine your skills, put on the hat that really fits you, find people who wear the other hats perfectly, then watch your business soar as everyone does their part according to their skill.
In your business' infancy, you MUST wear all the hats. I say must, because even if you have the ability to hire a staff right off the bat, it is necessary to understand your business from every angle. Immerse yourself in it, sign every check, examine every invoice, talk to every customer. Really get to understand everything about it so that you appreciate every nuance that goes on in the belly of what you have created.
Soon though, you need to ensure that the right people are wearing the right hats.
Most entrepreneurs are of the creative type. They see the world a bit differently than most people do. They see opportunities to improve things and shake the system up to make it better. If this is you, then put that hat on. Look at your business from all of those angles and use your creativity to change the things that can be improved. That may mean that you need to have a manager in place to take care of the day to day maintenance type decisions. You may need sales people to handle the finding of customers or clients. You may need an accountant to crunch the numbers. Find the right people for those jobs so that you can concentrate on wearing that hat of creativity to steer your business in the ways it must go.
You may be of a different set though. Some entrepreneurs have incredible technical knowledge of the product they are producing but may not have the business savvy to take it to the public successfully. If that is you, wear the right hat. Surround yourself with a dynamic manager and sales staff who can take care of getting your product out to the public while you put your skills to use where no one else can, perfecting what it is you have created.
Every entrepreneur is different. To be successful, you must be honest about what your true skills are and where you are lacking. You must then be willing to find others who have skills where you are lacking to create a well tuned business.
In the beginning, wear all the hats for a bit so that you know how they all fit. But then, examine your skills, put on the hat that really fits you, find people who wear the other hats perfectly, then watch your business soar as everyone does their part according to their skill.
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