Maximize Results

Here we are approaching midsummer, still with the dream that the recession is receding and the economy improving. I work with small businesses and entrepreneurs of all ages, and together with my clients I have stared into the demon face of recession. While we are all doing our best to get out of it, many are pushing themselves to the limit and blaming themselves for not doing enough.

Blame no more. Do no more. Instead, breathe while you notice what is going on around you. While most consultants and coaches whip their clients to do more, I say make sure that the doing and the being are in balance. Look at your circumstances neutrally and remind yourself that what you are going through is neither good nor bad, it just is.

Here’s what I have noticed. Let me know if what I see resonates with you.

1. While it’s good to stay on top of new trends, remember that trends take time to bring results. Instead of trying everything new and running after social media, assess what you do best and spend more time doing it. Stop worrying about the social media you’re not familiar with. Invest time in what you’re good at—and maximize results.

2. Stop defining yourself and your business by the services you offer. Service is passé. With the click of a button, we can get anything these days. Dive into getting to know yourself and identifying the value you offer. Then use that value to revamp your marketing.

3. Einstein defined insanity as doing the same thing over and over again while expecting different results. From a place of neutrality, ask yourself, “In which areas of my business do I do that?” Don’t blame yourself, don’t call yourself names, and don’t do anything about it. Just assess. Then, from that neutral place, ask yourself how you could be different in that area. It’s about you shifting from doing to being.

4. Applaud yourself for the hard work you are doing and stop blaming yourself for the goals you may not be reaching. We are still in a recession, and while some businesses are booming, most are not. I’m not telling you to slack off and blame the recession for whatever is going wrong. I’m urging you to assess your circumstances—and listen to Saint Francis, who said, “God, give me the strength to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

Keep breathing, and congratulate yourself for the person you are in this moment and for the amazing presence you bring to the world.