Happy 2008! A new year has just kicked off and it is time to get excited! Before you go back to business as usual, take a moment to make some business resolutions. I know people often make personal resolutions for the new year, but not many do the same for their business/career. Creating business resolutions may improve work/life balance. These resolutions can be business goals, but they can also be small changes in your daily operations that can slowly grow into a business evolution or even a success revolution. Once you're done, then broadcast your resolutions. Post the resolutions on the office bulletin board, email to all your people, be the on the screen saver of your computer or post on your business website or blog. This will encourage you to keep the resolutions.
Here are a few suggestions:
1. Clearly communicate and daily prioritize tasks and responsibilities to colleagues. Make a shared to-do list.
2. Discontinue weekly office meetings. If you do #1 well, then 2 is just an email.
3. Don't work on the weekends. (Work smart,not hard)
4. Delegate more to the passionate. You will be surprised at the energy and achievement of an intern.
5. Develop new business contacts by NOT networking. Skip the expensive conference this year. See-saw [I hate the word "leverage"] off of friends, family and even your dry cleaner by letting them know about your business.
Some of my suggestions make not fit for all businesses but I hope you will be inspired to create ones that fit your business and lifestyle. Make it fun!
From Nichelle Stephens, Small business Bookkeeper and Founder of Keeping Nickels.
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