January 29th marks the Chinese new year and with it begins the Year of the Dog. Let’s take a look at what this year means for your business. According to the Chinese calendar…
Like the dog, you are honest and faithful to those you love, although you also can be somewhat eccentric and very stubborn at times! For dogs in 2006, any recent setbacks or obstacles can be overcome so look forward to a year in which to really shine, either personally or professionally. source
Take these points to heart as you run your business in 2006:
1. Be Honest
There is no substitute for complete integrity and honesty with your business partners and customers. Don’t sell yourself short to cut corners or trick others.
2. Be Faithful
Be loyal to your employees and customers. Treat them with respect and dignity and reward them for their efforts. Well-treated employees will be faithful to you and be better workers. Customers will be faithful return customers if you consistently met and exceed their expectations.
3. Go Eccentric
It is just fine to go out on a limb and try something new this year. Shake things up a bit. Do something different! You may be stuck in a rut and need to break with the norm to make yourself more successful. You’ll never know if that great idea of yours will work unless you try it!
4. Selectively Stubborn
Being stubborn is acceptable when you’re sticking to your moral convictions and doing what is right. But don’t be a stick in the mud when you’re wrong. This year, quickly acknowledge when you make a mistake and correct it promptly.
5. Overcome Obstacles
Learn from the speed bumps and problems of the past and press forward! Just because you’ve failed before doesn’t mean you can’t be successful this time around. Remember the words of Thomas Edison:
I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.
6. Shine
Take your ideas, products, or services and polish them. Refine and improve them. Help your customers see the benefits. When you have top quality products, your business will shine. Potential customers will be attracted by the glow of your great company and the success their friends have had with your business.
Rebirth
As the new year begins, take a fresh look at your business and see how these principles of the Year of the Dog can help you pick yourself up, get to work, and have a wildly successful 2006.
Happy New Year!