New year good time to reflect on the past

As we approach a new year, it’s a good time to reflect on the year just been and ponder what lies ahead for 2019. What has gone well or not so well? What are we going to do different in 2019? If we’re not going to change the inputs, how can we expect a different outcome?

Success means different things to different people. For some, it’s about wealth creation and creating a nest egg to improve their sense of security. For others, money and wealth may not be the drivers. Lifestyle, love and family may be more important. For some, it lies somewhere in between. Everyone is different. It’s important that your business goals fit into your personal goals, not the other way around. If there’s friction between the two, something must change.

We cannot assume that everyone’s goals are the same. We must first understand what is important to our client by asking the right questions and then seek to help/solve a problem. Do you do this in your business? How well do you know your customers and how much time do you invest in them as people? What do they really want? The deeper the relationship, the better it is for everyone.

It’s not easy being in business. It can be stressful at times. We make mistakes. We are often our own harshest critics and put unnecessary pressure on ourselves. We focus on the few negatives and lose sight of all of the great things we do. Don’t forget to pat yourself on the back occasionally and celebrate success . . . even better, celebrate with your team who helped make it happen.

There’s no magic formula when it comes to business success. It’s a culmination of many different variables coming together at the right time in the right place. There are some common (non-financial) traits though such as:

■ 1. Value your staff. Treat them with respect as you want to be treated. Your business is only as good as the team around you.

■ 2. Value your customer. Never take them for granted. Be client centric. Make it win-win.

■ 3. Understand your point of difference in your market and work hard to maintain it.

■ 4. Know your customer and let them know you. People do business with people they get on with, know and trust.

■ 5. Be humble, open-minded and give things a go. Take calculated risks. Some of the best ideas can come from staff. Encourage open dialogue.

■ 6. Make it fun. Find ways to celebrate success.

■ 7. Have a can-do attitude. Be optimistic and positive. Lead by example.

All the best for 2019.