How to Avoid Missing Out On the Exact Opportunities You're Looking For

I often see entrepreneurs looking at their proverbial glass as half empty instead of half full. They might say:

• If I only had the connections that person has...

• If I only had the experience that person has...

• If I only had the personality that person has...

The list could go on and on. This type of thinking can sabotage a person in many ways, but perhaps the most critical is that it can cause you to overlook priceless opportunities that are available right in front of you.

Instead of focusing what you don't have, focus on what you DO have.

• What connections DO you have?

• What experience DO you have?

• What elements of your personality DO serve you well?

After you've taken inventory of your assets, start considering how you can leverage those and what opportunities you can create as a result.

Are you currently looking for:

• Referral(s) to prospective clients

• Introduction(s) to referral partners

• Writing opportunities:

• Speaking opportunities

• Networking opportunities

• Partnership/joint venture opportunities

• Consulting opportunities

Perhaps you have other ideas about the type of opportunities you are seeking. This is why being crystal clear about your goals is so critically important.

If you don't know what your goals are, you don't know what type of opportunities will help you achieve those goals in the quickest amount of time with the least amount of effort. Thus, you may not see the opportunities that are right front of you, or worse yet, not see what assets you have that you can leverage to open those doors for you.

Of course, your goals should be S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measureable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely). The "timely" piece is important because we're not (necessarily) talking about a 5-year plan. To start, focus on what specifically you want to accomplish in your business over the next 3-6 months.

Are you looking to generate a certain amount of revenue? Enroll a certain number of clients? Sell a certain number of products? What does success for you look like for this specific time period?

Once you're clear on that, next consider what specific opportunities will help you achieve those goals? Also, how can you leverage the experience, connections and education you already have to tap into those opportunities?

Remember, look at what you CAN do and what IS possible. Don't be afraid to ask for what you want. Be humble enough to seek and accept assistance.

Creating the profitable, successful business you desire is entirely within your reach. But you do have to R-E-A-C-H for it. Which means putting forth the effort to create the opportunities you want. They are there for the taking; so don't let them pass you by!