As you reflect on the past year, it can be easy to get caught up in sales numbers and profit and loss statements and wonder if you are making any forward progress in your business. You may feel like asking Santa for the gift of a large new client ready to buy your inventory up before years end.
Reality: While a new client is always a great feeling, it does little to help a business owner feel their progress and growth. The real gift comes from the understanding that most business owners tend to be perfectionists. We are really hard on ourselves and internalize mistakes and failures. So, take the time to freeze your victories in the upcoming year and focus on the feeling of growth and forward momentum.
3. The Gift of Accountability
Did you do all the things that you wanted to do this year? If you are like many business owners, you may have fallen short on your yearly goals and wish that there was a way that you could help stay on track.
Wish List: A Super Cool Computer Program That Keeps You On Task
Reality: There is no magic tech solution that will keep you on task throughout the year. The real gift is learning how to create action plans that are easy to follow and broken down into manageable pieces. Once you master this skill you should have a much easier time reaching your business goals.
4. The Gift of Freedom
Most business owners begin working for themselves for the gift of freedom. They want to be there for their kids soccer games, make their own schedule and control their own destiny. Unfortunately, many get trapped in an owner-reliant business where the success (or failure) of their business rests on their shoulders.
Wish List: A Business That Can Run Itself Without Your Day-to-Day Input
Reality: This one can be a reality! Once you get the first three gifts, you can then focus on creating systems and controls that will allow you to step away from your business for weeks or even months at a time.
It won’t be a gift that will be under your tree however, but it will over time get easier and easier to step away from your business and regain your freedom.