Whether you are totally into New Year’s resolutions or think they are just a waste of time, I think we can all agree that January 1 is a great to time to consider how we are spending our time on a daily basis. If you talk to the Mark Cubans, Berry Gordys, and Warren Buffets of the world the keys to their accomplishments and longevity, they will all share that there are daily choices that they make every day that have been critical to their success.
Read, A Lot
All the big wigs from Ariana Huffington to Oprah Winfrey read a lot. Some of the biggest names in business read a book a week to expand their minds and grow as entrepreneurs. Check out this list of “10 Great Books Every Entrepreneur Should Read” compiled by Lifehack that includes a book of meditations from Marcus Aurelius to the old stand-by “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” from Stephen R. Covey. And, if reading just isn’t your thing, then there are many other options, podcasts, youtube, and TEDtalks are some of the best ways to learn from the experts and grow as a person, as a leader, and as an entrepreneur.
Self-Care and Balance
As a small business owner, it is really difficult to take time off for you. (I would know!) But, BUT, self-care and balance are so important to making sure your immune system isn’t compromised as well as your mental health. The reality is that if you need take time for breaks every day, take time to recharge your battery with your favorite activities like a hike or seeing a movie, and finding a workout routine that you actually enjoy like swimming and yoga which will make your quality of work and production so much better! (And don’t forget wonderful, beautiful, completely under-rated SLEEP!) Not only will your business show growth, but your love of the business will grow rather than blow up from burn out.
Prioritize Goals
Examining what changes need to happen in the business to help it grow and to improve efficiency is a positive behavior to adopt this year. Examining your marketing strategies is one of the most important tasks you should do on a regular basis, like bi-monthly. This will allow you to see if you are growing like you want. You can look at product success, sales, audience, engagement, etc. It’s also important to evaluate other processes that keep your company running smoothly like accounting, lead generation and employee production. It’s also a great idea to make yearly, monthly, weekly, and even one or two daily goals. Keep them sweet and simple and attainable and watch how they provide you with a roadmap to success!
Delegate
Little and big tasks should be examined! Determine what has to get done, when, and by whom to maximize your time and the talents of yourself and others. Evaluate whether you are the best person for that job, and then determine what you can afford to hire out and what needs to stay in house. Even delegate some of the non-business related tasks that are on your plate. You know $20 a week to have someone mow your lawn may give you an hour to finish something with a higher rate of return. As a sole proprietor, the saying “time is money” is critical. Examine what you should do more of and less of that helps the business and helps you have time for your own self-care.
Super Hour
Everybody has a time in the day when they are the most clear, focused, and creative; it is super important to utilize that hour or two in the day where you are most productive! If early morning is your “hour of power” then find a way to get to bed early and get up and get to work. If it is the end of the day when there is silence and you have alone time to think clearly and be productive, then just do it! You will feel empowered and positive each day because you have utilized your optimum work time.
While it isn’t necessary to make hard and fast New Year’s resolutions, reviewing and adopting some good habits and behaviors will never hurt your own personal health and well-being not to mention the health and wellness of your business! Happy New Year! May your business and personal life in 2020 be prosperous and full of joy.