Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Life and Business: Both a Future-Focused Journey



When starting out in life, our time is occupied by education, jobs, social plans, having fun and dating. For many, what follows is getting married, starting a family and raising children. Overall we are too busy to think about what we should be doing now that would impact our distant future. And then it happens. You turn 30, 35, 40, 45…and everything changes. Suddenly your health is not what it used to be. Your personal list of doctors has gone from one to six, and you realize it takes a lot more energy, time, effort and investment to maintain your health – not to mention the process of actually getting healthy first. You set aggressive goals and you wonder if you'll be able to reach them. You begin to feel a sense of urgency to take care of yourself in hopes of longevity so you can be present for your children.

A parallel existence occurs professionally. When starting out in business, your focus is on gaining customers or clients, placing orders and making daily decisions. With success, you might find you're looking for a bigger building, adding to staff, or improving processes. Overall you’re too busy to think about what you should be doing now that would impact your company’s distant future.  And then it happens. You’re in business for a year, then five years, then ten…and everything has changed. Your business model is outdated, your customers are getting older, the competitive environment is strong and potential customers are looking for new products and services. You used to make all the decisions, but now you need a half-dozen consultants and you realize it takes a lot more energy, time, effort and investment to maintain your business – not to mention growing it. You set aggressive goals and wonder if you will be able to reach them. You begin to feel a sense of urgency for business survival so your company can be your legacy to pass on to your children.

Lesson: Take the time, make the effort, consult experts, and invest in your (personal and business) health NOW. Make considerations for maintenance, remedies, innovation, growth and building strength for your future.

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