As we approach the end of the year, we take time to celebrate with family and friends, celebrate with our co-workers, share a few stories, some food, and get ready for the new year.
For many others, it’s a time to take stock of our own lives and make promises to ourselves to improve a few things. On a personal level, that could include things like losing some weight, working out more, learning a new language, or taking the time to learn a new skill.
This year, I want business leaders to do the same thing with their New Year’s Resolutions. Look back to see which goals you achieved, which you fell short of, and set new goals based on your performance this year that will allow you to continue to grow.
While most New Year’s Resolutions fail within 30-60 days, understanding the reasons why they fail is important to overcoming that barrier. Let me give you 5 steps to make sure your resolutions for 2019 are not only achievable, but to make sure you stay on course and achieve them.
- Look in the mirror. It’s time to be brutally honest with yourself. What worked to achieve the goals you set? What didn’t work when goals weren’t met? What metrics were you using to measure success?
- It’s important to avoid passing judgement on any of your team members who haven’t achieved the results you were looking for, because the case could very well be that the problem is at the top. You might have a lack of a written process, ineffective training, or a lack of accountability–all things to consider when reviewing your business strategy.
Accountability begins with a rigid dedication to achieving success. This usually means avoiding small failures, like putting off something until tomorrow, veering away from the structure of your business plan, or assuming that you don’t need to take a leadership role in your next project. Make a concerted effort to stick to the plan, no matter how inconvenient it may be.
- Based on the shortcomings of your previous year, map out a new plan for the new year. Make it clear, concise, and actionable so those who help you execute it can monitor results.
- When it comes to action plans, no plan is complete without timelines. Losing 10 pounds in a week is unrealistic, but losing half of a pound a week for a year is. Apply the same philosophy to your business, and you will see the gradual, small successes turn into one large one by the time the year is up.
- Invest in a coach, trainer, or partner to hold you accountable. There’s a reason those who do are afforded a much higher success rate. When you’re working with someone else, your motivation comes from a place of not wanting to let your partner down instead of only working for yourself. Adding another perspective to your plan can only provide a more comprehensive view of everything that’s happening.
I hope these 5 steps help you. I wish all a fantastic 2019 and a prosperous year of growth.
Please reach out if myself or my team at PCG can be of any assistance.