“Your actions speak so loudly, I cannot hear what you are saying.” That was Ralph Waldo Emerson’s take on priorities. As small business entrepreneurs, we can talk a good game. But, can we successfully execute the plays that guarantee a win?
Throughout my years as a small business strategist and business coach, I’ve noticed a common theme among small business owners. They talk about their goal for growing their small business yet their actions — and their calendar — would say something different. It’s like professing my goal to lose 5# while grazing my way through a bag of Doritos.
Take Inventory
Consider the goals for your business. What do you intend to achieve this week? This month? This year? (Goals are not your to-do list. Be sure you’re clear on the difference.)
Check your calendar. Does your schedule — and all the goings-on stuffed into it — reflect the activity needed to achieve your goals?
Are you surprised by the discovery? Most small business entrepreneurs are stunned to discover their calendars aren’t aligned with what is needed to achieve their goals.
Shuffle the Deck
Let’s re-configure your calendar so it’s reflective of your goals.
For starters, schedule your most critical goal-focused activities for the beginning of your day. Next, line up other activities behind your goal-focused actions. Arrange your day according to the priorities of your goal. Voila! Achieve your goals with greater ease and less stress. Who doesn’t want that?!
Be patient. It takes time to rework your calendar so it’s properly prioritized and aligned with your goals. Don’t give up. In the words of Wally “Famous” Amos, “If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’ll keep getting what you’re getting.” And, who wants that?!
What does your calendar say about the probability of achieving your goals?
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