Where is Your Focus?

There is a great belated birthday card. The front says something like “I think I have ADHD. I’m sorry I missed your…oh, look, there goes a bunny.” There are certainly enough things to distract us these days. The economy (if you believe everything you read), the environment, taxes, the list is kind of endless. If there are problems with your job or in your business, you are even more likely to have trouble focusing. Where is your focus? Are you focusing on things you can’t change? Are you spending more time worrying than working? How do you stay on track?

Tough times can define us. It will separate the pretenders from the contenders. If you are really serious about your business, then it is time to focus. You need to spend some time looking at what is going wrong and how to fix it. Be brutal. If something isn’t working stop doing it. If there are expenses that are out of control, start cutting. It will almost certainly not be easy, but we are talking about survival here and you need to be sure that you and your business will survive, particularly if you are experiencing a downturn.

Next focus on what is going right and expand it. Look carefully. Maybe this is an area that you haven’t thought about before. Maybe a small change in one area that has been successful will result in more sales. Are there products that you haven’t carried, but that might be more in demand now? How can you add value to your products or services so customers feel they are getting their money’s worth?

Don’t overlook other businesses. There are companies out there that may be struggling as well. Are there companies that you can partner with to create a win-win situation for both you? Can you advertise each other’s businesses? What companies complement your products or services?

Sometimes we can’t see the forest for the trees. We have been in our business for so long that it is difficult to really take an objective look at the business. Ask people that know about your business if they see places you can improve and/or expand. You may be surprised at what they see.

Networking becomes even more crucial. Are you keeping your business or service in front of everyone? Even if someone doesn’t use your particular product or service they may probably know someone that does. Take advantage of every networking opportunity you can including Chamber of Commerce events, Business Networking International (BNI)—if you can’t afford to join you can visit at least twice, trade shows, business open houses, even a garage sale can be a place to advertise your business!

Don’t be so afraid of failing or so busy worrying that you don’t take the time to really think about your business. If you give up you might just be losing out on the success that is just around the corner.