Putting Out Fires

       Are you spending your whole business day putting out fires? Why? There are a number of things that can create this kind of chaos. Real emergencies can occur, but they happen much less often than we think they do.

       The primary culprit is probably your systems, procedures, and practices . It is important that you look at the how and why you do things. Being your own boss does give you the luxury of being flexible, but you should have systems in place that tame the chaos. Especially if you have limited resources or a minimal staff you should have guidelines for how things will be done. This includes dealing with clients, vendors, marketing, bookkeeping, and continuing education.

       Your guidelines should be very clear and also include backup plans and cross training. If projects, finances, time, and staff don't line up chaos can ensue. You must be trained and willing to jump into the breach to get the job done. Your staff may be able to do it better than you, but at least you can get the job done and hang on to the customer who is depending on you.

       When you feel yourself, or someone points out, that you

are beginning to panic STOP. Assess what is causing the challenge and review your processes to see how to handle the situation. Anxiety and stress can only make the situation worse. If necessary leave the building or project site; go for a walk, have an ice cream (a pre-treat for a project that will be well done), sit in a quiet park and assess the situation.

        A change of pace and reflection are the keys to helping you get back on track, and moving forward to where you want to be. Depend on you systems and processes ; you created them for just such occasions. Hang in there and this too shall pass.