This week we celebrate the independence of the United States of America. Today I want you to celebrate independence for your business. You may not be breaking free from an oppressive monarch, but I bet there are some things that are holding your business back.
Competition
Now is the time to break free from competition. Just because they may be bigger than you or have more resources doesn’t mean you can’t be successful in the same industry. Think David versus Goliath or Colonial America versus the mighty British Empire. They succeeded and so can you.
Need a boost? Go read Guy Kawasaki’s How to Drive Your Competition Crazy.
Taxes
Unfortunately, you’ll still have to pay taxes to the government. I’m talking about a different tax that likewise eats away at your profitability. My colleague always describes projects that have no direct business or customer-facing value as “taxes.” These include maintenance, infrastructure upgrades, etc. They are necessities that arise and have to be handled.
Reduce or eliminate these “taxes” through better planning, automation, employing smart people, and getting real in your business.
Customers’ Choice
Your customers have the freedom to choose. They could easily celebrate their independence by walking away from your business. Celebrate your customers’ decision to pick you by encouraging customer loyalty. Reward your best customers and thank everyone who buys your product.
You can turn your faithful customers into your best sales force. For help on this, read Creating Customer Evangelists
Status Quo
Today is the day you need to look at how you do business. I guarantee there are some bad habits you’ve acquired that suck the productivity out of your business. Proclaim your independence from the status quo and the rut in which you may find yourself.
Reinvent the old ways of doing things. Just because that’s the way you’ve always done them doesn’t mean you have to continue that way forever.
Break the Routine
Relax! You work hard everyday and maybe every night or weekend. You need a vacation. A break from your work routine will let you return with a fresh mind and body.
If you weren’t able to take some time off this holiday week, plan a vacation soon.You’ll be surprised how invigorated you’ll feel when you return.