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Things that you nurture, and support, and give energy and time to WILL grow
in your life. And in contrast, things can’t exist if you don’t support
them. If you have something in your life that you don’t want there,
identify how you are supporting it.
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As the year begins it is the perfect time to acknowledge the uncertainty
that we are currently experiencing in the business environment, and in our
lives. Our most basic assumptions have been challenged, and for many of us
there is an overwhelming desire to sit tight.
While a lot seems to be on hold, now is the perfect time to move forward.
If you are not sure where to begin, think about a strategic thinking and
planning process. While planning right now might seem like the last thing on
your mind, strategic thinking is a very comfortable way to help you gain
momentum to take positive action.
The Big
Picture
- With a structured process to fall back on, you will be
able to quickly build a realistic picture of your situation in the current
environment, and identify changes that are necessary to strengthen and your
business. Now is a great time to take a fresh look at things, and think
about the ways you want to grow in the year ahead.
Snapshot in
Time
- Each morning I get out early and walk. The light is
terrific as the sun rises and I have gotten into the habit of taking my
camera along. The details that are revealed in the pictures often surprise
me. We all are gazing right now, but how much are we missing? Strategic
planning is about the future, but it starts with a picture of what it really
looks like today.
Accuracy
- If you zoom in and focus on the environment, the conditions in
your business, and on your differentiating factors; as you develop the
picture, an image will form that can provide new insight to creating
effective strategies for the coming year.
Zoom In and
Out
- There are many dynamics, both internal and external that
affect success. There are also many tools, methods and practices to help
assess those dynamics. Some of the basic areas to look at are trends,
competition, customer segments, structure and function, and internal
strengths and limitations. People are the most important resource in any
business. Before you head in a new direction, remind yourself of the skills,
abilities, knowledge, expertise, natural tendencies, and values that set you
apart.
Perspective
- Clients, employees and business partners can provide useful
information about your business from their viewpoint. Some of the methods to
gather this information include focus groups, surveys, assessments, and
customer service reports. As a starting point, simply ask the following two
questions- Are we easy to do business with? What are the things we do best?
Highlight
- As your begin to map a plan for the future, if you design
strategies based on strengths, the goals will be easier and more enjoyable.
There is always opportunity to grow and develop. Build on what comes
naturally. Personal assessments are one way to increase understanding,
personal effectiveness, and satisfaction.
Contrast
- The successful result of a strategic thinking and planning
process is a clear and motivating vision that builds on strengths, and meets
the needs of your employees, customers, and business partners. You will have
created prioritized, actionable goals and realistic expectations. All in
all, a lot better than sitting around!
Brighter
Image
- MAKE YOUR BEST YEAR YET!
About the Author:
Helene Mazur is the President of Princeton Performance
Dynamics. As a facilitator and business coach, Helene supports individuals
and organizations to achieve goals that are important to them. Her company
specializes in strategic planning, building leadership, sales, and customer
service strategies. Visit her web site at http://www.ppdbusinesscoaching.com
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