MARKETPLACE LESSONS
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While in discussion with a group of leaders, I asked if they make 'new year's' resolutions and if they do, how they go about making and (more importantly) keeping them.
These suggestions are a direct result of my discussion with them.
All agree that one goal (rather than a few goals), concretely outlined with what changes are to be made and how they will be achieved worked best for them.
They added that the goal needed to be realistic--no sense in setting yourself up for failure.
And several of the leaders had specific techniques to create their goals. Plan for success--get everything ready to go so there will be no excuses. Commit in writing--it provides a concrete reinforcement. Persevere--accept that you may not succeed the first time and be willing to try again (and again). Acknowledge your success along the way and reward it.
Many in the group added a caveat. The beginning of January is not really the best time to begin (too many stresses and distractions) but it's a traditional time so... I've started to plan out my approach to achieve my goal.
LESSON LEARNED:"Whatever your plans and goals are for 2010, I wish you luck--but as you're well aware we make our own luck."
-Sam Geist
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THE STATS
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As 2010 begins, it provides an excellent time to ask (and answer) ten essential questions that will help you become a stronger leader and get you on your way to a great new year.
What matters most?
The good news is, there's no right or wrong answer. Clarify priorities and commit to keeping them in focus.
What is one "problem" I can turn into an opportunity?
Think about your past business successes and figure out how to apply those skills to the issue at hand. You grow by building on strengths, not "fixing" weaknesses.
What do employees need to hear from me?
Be careful about sending the message that you need people to hear. Think from your employees' point of view--if they don't feel understood, they won't listen to you.
What is our customers' greatest pain?
Be relentless about knowing and meeting that need. Listen and understand first--then get busy offering solutions.
What new business opportunities will I pursue?
Seek out new opportunities where there is potential for mutual benefit--not just "what's in it for me?" Significant business relationships begin with real dialogue--not a tweet.
How will I be more strategic?
Strategic planning isn't an event--it's a discipline. Put it into daily practice.
How can I make swift yet smart decisions?
Clear the "mind clutter" that plagues even the best leaders.
What leadership skill can-and should-I get better at?
Pick the leadership skill that most needs your attention--and commit to improvement. Small changes really can make a big difference.
How will I recognize success?
You won't know if the business is on the right path if you haven't determined some key markers or indicators. Consider how you'll know when a result "feels right."
What is my biggest fear, and how will I face it?
Name it--and claim it. Own your fear--before it owns you--and decide how you'll confront it.
--WorkMatters/Gayle Lantz---------------------------------------- While new year's resolutions continue to focus on improving financial situations, losing weight and developing healthy habits, current 2010 resolutions indicate that financial concerns remain top of mind for Americans. Results include: - 52.6% said the U.S. should resolve to create jobs/reduce unemployment
- 32.4% want the country to fix its finances
- 10.6% say it should solve healthcare issues
- 33.2% say they are including financial planning in their 2010 resolutions
- 52% say they are more hopeful about their own financial health going into 2010 then they were last year.
--Allianz Life Insurance Co./Synovate
--Putnam Investments/Insight Express
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