Jackie Nagel, Synnovatia 
For centuries, philosophers have contemplated the nagging causality dilemma, “which comes first, the chicken or the egg.” Equally perplexing for small business owners is “which comes first, the goal or the plan”. We all know the goal comes first, right? Regardless, small business owners often find themselves in the middle of a random pile of activities that have little connection to their final destination.
When things aren’t working as well as one hope or plans, it’s natural to push harder. Whether our push is through longer hours, more frequent contact with potential clients, or bigger, louder marketing messages, it all adds up to one thing — beating your head against a wall. Not only is it unproductive, it’s not the smartest strategy for growing your small business. Rather than get a bigger helmet so it hurts less when your head hits the wall — again — learn to pivot.
Nothing is more exciting than the victory celebration following the achievement of a goal. For many small business owners goal achievement doesn’t happen often enough. The solution is simple — set goals you’re willing to make a priority in your day.
“Your actions speak so loudly, I cannot hear what you are saying.” That was Ralph Waldo Emerson’s take on priorities. As small business entrepreneurs, we can talk a good game. But, can we successfully execute the plays that guarantee a win?
Anyone within earshot of Super Bowl XLVIII heard Pete Carroll and the Seattle Seahawks reference the “12th man.” I’ve heard this before from another 3-time NCAA Division/FCS championship team, my alma mater, NDSU Bison. Former coach, Craig Bohl, and the Bison football players credit their success to their fans.
the genius behind inbound marketing, issued a challenge — blog for 30 days. What? In a row?!? How crazy was that idea! I was lucky if I managed to eek out one blog a week! I certainly wasn’t capable of writing one blog every day — especially given my current blogging state of mind.
How many times a day do you say, “I don’t have time” or “I don’t have enough time”? Lack of time is a common problem that plagues every small business owner. A rock-solid solution to create more time is needed in today’s time-crunched environment.
Any one who runs a small business knows how easy it is to get caught up in the act of doing. You compile taxes for year-end, organize your desk, and clear out your inbox (again). The multitude of tasks required on any given day of small business operation is daunting. In the mix of all the “doing”, there’s one — and only one — approach to keep your small business growing.