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model is outdated, your customers are getting older, the competitive environment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.
