We all have resolutions; what about unresolutions
Ah, the New Year. A fresh start, a time to do the things you’ve been meaning to do for the last year…or three. It’s popular to make a list of the things you hope to achieve, new endeavors, hopes…dreams. It’s wonderful to look to the future, have aspirations, and make goals to achieve things yet to be had, as mostly likely, that’s what lead you to business ownership and entrepreneurship to begin with.
But, just as important as goal setting is, bad habit prevention and un-doing is integral for success. So without further ado, here’s your list of 2016 unresolutions.
1. Stop overcommitting. Seriously.
It’s easy to say yes to every good opportunity that comes your way, especially if you’re motivated and/or broke. Instead of saying yes to everything, carefully weigh your options and priorities, and try to invest your time in the opportunities that make the most business sense. Spending time dedicated, and focused on an important project can result in repeat business or future partnerships that a less intentional project wouldn’t.
2. Stop forgetting your commitments
For Pete’s sake, if you say yes to something then follow through. No one likes a flake, so make sure you show up to the events, submit the projects, and meet the deadlines you commit to. Need help organizing your time? Start religiously using your calendar to schedule personal and professional obligations so you won’t forget to what you’ve committed.
3. Stop worrying about what other people are doing
It’s a good idea to have a pulse on the market and your competition but it’s counterproductive to constantly worry about everyone else’s next move. Examine your goals, short and long term and do some R&D, but stop obsessing about your competition’s every move. They’ll have some good ideas, and if you’re focusing on your audience, you will too. Don’t let their success be your downfall.
4. Stop trying to do it all
You are obviously great at what you do, or you wouldn’t be where you are, but don’t try to do it all on your own. There are great people out there who would be assets to your team. Don’t be afraid to branch out, share your goals, and be a little vulnerable. It’s hard to share your dream, your baby, your business, with someone else who you don’t know that much about, but in order to succeed you have to find likeminded others who can help extend your dream.
Stop being so serious…or start being more serious
This is a hard one. There are two types of entrepreneurs – ones that put every ounce of effort they have into their business endeavors, and those who have yet to go “all in.” To the over-involved I say, most respectfully, take a chill pill. Make sure you’re maintaining balance between work and home, and make you’re your employees are doing the same.
Above that, be sure you’re effectively communicating and setting realistic expectations. On the other hand, the second type of entrepreneur is doing their business “on the side” and hasn’t made the leap. To those business owners 2016 is your year to commit. If you’ve been dabbling in your business for years, it’s time to fish or cut bait. Sometimes big gains mean big risks.
The takeaway
When it comes to the New Year, resolutions and goal settings are positive to business, only if you also make sure to analyze your current practices, as well. Don’t let bad habits impact your success. Stop doing those things standing in the way of progress and make 2016 count for your business.
#unresolutions
