Are you Ready?

It is my observation that we seem to live in a culture that is very clear about what doesn’t work. We’re wired to notice rather quickly what’s missing. Surely it’s from caveman days when survival was a daily activity. Further reinforced when we’re young and attention is garnered more often when we do something ‘wrong’ or inappropriate. Rarely are some of us caught doing ‘right’. An ‘atta-boy’ is often softer on or psyche than a ‘STOP that!’ 

Our newscasts are filled with despair. (I’ve often fantasized about starting a publication focused on good news, though I am told there is no market for it. So glad that’s shifting!) 

Our educational system is about correcting rather than expanding ourselves. Not surprisingly, I disliked school when I was younger, as it was a place to feel inferior, less than, and un-able in many ways. 

It took years for me to discover that I love to learn, that learning isn’t about being right or wrong, its about stretching our brain, our consciousness, its more about provoking growth, exploration and curiosity. What a shock! During school years my impression was that learning was more about memorizing, mimicking and avoiding the wrath of the bad grade or disapproval of a teacher, parent or peer.

The school of life mandates that we are always learning. You know how to tie your shoes, make something reasonable for dinner, but may not know the intricacies of running a business, or being the best parent, or how to, well, whatever it is you’d like to do. So we must learn, be vigilant for our growth and an advocate for increasing our skills.  No matter your chosen profession, its impossible to stay on top without intentional attention to this activity.

I read an article entitled ‘Preparing your People for the Upturn’ in HBR, (which ironically was from ’09 during that mess) which made me giggle with glee. In short it was pretty much an anti-statement compared to all the gloomy headlines we’ve become so accustomed to. 

Yet before I even read the article the statement itself had an impact. What a great idea! Preparing for the upturn includes many actions you may already be engaged in, yet from a different perspective. Re-visiting your business plan, re-working your marketing strategy, re-adjusting your goals and numbers, or re-creating products. The article highlighted particular areas such as mastering your operations and investing in your people but my mind took me further. It gave me permission to do additional reading, attend more seminars, connect with more teachers. It also reinforced that those who thrive aren’t focused on getting through ‘this’, they’re simply clear that any time, including now, is ripe with opportunity. 

Those who thrive don’t kick into survival mode, looking outside for the explanation. They simply see opportunities in abundance and innately seek abundant opportunity. They are unstoppable.

So, I ask you, how are you preparing for the upturn? 
Are you training your staff? 
Creating better systems? 
Adding to your skills?
Building new and stronger relationships? 
Improving your product or service? 
Honing your sales and marketing? 
Establishing better brand positioning? 

Now as ever we have the chance to learn. Learn more about yourself, your product, your clientele, dream about what your upturn looks like. Prepare for it, live it, invest in it. You’ll be glad you did.

One thing to note: it’s SO much easier to grow as part of a team. And that’s my favorite thing! When you’re ready to see if we’d be a great fit for forging ahead, do book in a Biz by Design session. You’ll be glad you did!

To your Unforgettable Journey,
J.

xoxo

p.s…Have you joined the facebook group yet? Free trainings and tips inside there too… at this link

pss…. If you’re ready to try something new, let’s talk. My purpose in life is to make a difference for business owners and leaders. Are you my next success story?

 ………………..

J. Winslow
Branding Specialist and Strategic Planner, J. Winslow brings decades of solid experience to each project and leader she interacts with. Clients range from non-profits such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, to Madison Avenue Biggies including: Women’s Day Magazine, Cover Girl and Elizabeth Taylor. She also enjoys working with TEDx speakers and students ready to leverage their own brand stories. Learn more here…