Make The New Year Work For You
I'm squeaking in here at the tail end of the year with a few tips on how to make the transition to 2004 a productive one. As you reflect on 2003 and plan for 2004:
* Take some time to reflect on all the things that went RIGHT this past year for you. All too often, soloists focus on how they've fallen short. Remember that self-confidence is the currency of successful self-employment.
* Make a list -- in writing -- and rank your 2003 clients and/or customers on several factors, such as: chemistry; compensation; projects that engaged your mind and expanded your skill set; overall enjoyment; etc. Once this list is on paper, you'll be able to better focus your energy on what types of customers you want to pursue, and which ones aren't worth the effort in the New Year.
* Get clear on your financials. Waiting until tax-time in March or April to determine the fiscal status of your business means that you've lost an entire quarter of 2004. A few clicks of the mouse in QuickBooks, Quicken, or another financial program can give you a good snapshot of your year, and help you plan more effectively. And if you're not using one of these software programs, make it one of your first investments in the New Year.
* Forget resolutions, and think "areas of focus." Studies have shown that most New Year's resolutions are abandoned by March. Instead of making half-hearted promises about your business, pick one or two areas you want to focus on this year. For example: establishing a passive revenue stream from your Web site; getting a better handle on the financial aspects of your business; expanding your personal network with other soloists; building your skills in a specific area, etc. With broad-based themes, you can focus on proactive steps instead of on what you're going to give up (an approach that only seems to amplify a negative mental tape loop).
* As I've said in this newsletter before -- it's worth spending some time to create a "Won't Do" list. Consider all the things that are no longer acceptable or tolerable in your solo life -- no matter how big or small they may be -- and consciously weed them out. If you don't change them, who will?
Publisher: Terri Lonier, author of the "Working Solo" series and president of Working Solo, Inc., strategic advisor to companies targeting the SOHO (small office/home office) market and individuals who want to grow a successful solo business. We create the SOHO Connection(TM). Contact us at: wsoffice@workingsolo.com
Working Solo is a registered trademark, and The Frugal Entrepreneur, SOHO Connection, the Business Gym, and the Personal Pathfinder Program are trademarks of Terri Lonier. All other trademarks are the property of their respective holders.
Copyright 2003 Terri Lonier. All rights reserved.
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