What "R" word are you focusing on?

Ahhh-summer holidays! Time to hit the beach, soak up some sun, and let the worries of the working world melt away. Or it was, until the dreaded 'R' word showed up. Yep, I'm talking about the recession...and unfortunately, it doesn't take a summer vacation. So instead of taking well-deserved time off, many of us are working overtime trying to market our services, close more business, and keep our heads above water. Heck, even the sun isn't getting out much.

I certainly found myself in this boat. For over 18 months, I managed to stay optimistic and not allow the "R" word to hover like a raincloud over our business. Well, I admit it - it hit hard this past quarter and I found myself feeling physically and mentally exhausted. So, I decided it was time for a new tactic. No, not working harder - it was time to forget about this 'R' word and focus on other "r" words: relax, rejuvenate and revitalize. I needed to get myself in a whole new boat.

So I did! This is the view from the front of our boat while traveling on the St. Clair River, during our family holidays in early July.

This is where I do my most creative thinking - a tranquil setting on the water. I'm always amazed that whenever I take time for me and my family near the water, new ideas miraculously bubble to the surface. Stress floats away, and the ripple of the water quiets my mind and replenishes my soul. When I'm not busy worrying and thinking and strategizing, clear thoughts and creative strategies finally have room to get through. It may seem counterintuitive that when you turn it off or slow it down, your creativity cranks up - but it's very, very true. Sometimes, doing nothing is far more productive than constantly doing, doing, doing.

Yes,it has been a tough economic year. But no matter what the results, you deserve to take some 'me' time to focus on other 'r' words. Whether you're heading for the cottage or just spending some quiet time around the house, find a way to relax, revitalize and rejuvenate this summer . Chances are, you'll end up generating new strategies and tactics to re-invent, re-calibrate and re- tool your sales approach, all from doing nothing. Imagine how that would help you outsmart and outsell your competition this fall selling season - you know, the ones still stuck on one 'R' word?

Lisa Leitch
Teneo Inc.