Posted by Greg Rittler on November 21st, 2008

The Next New Year

2009 seems out of control.

You don’t have control over the economy. You don’t have control over who is in political office. You don’t have control over how deep this recession goes. You don’t have control over when credit and financial markets are going to normalize. Are you losing sleep yet?

So what do you have control over?

You have control over planning for 2009 as best you can. Here are 6 things that will help you be as prepared as possible (and help you sleep better). Some of them we all know but rarely do. Go do them.

1. Write out your personal goals

There is not a business or organization on earth that is not fueled by people. You and your staff need to start by establishing what your personal goals are for 2009. Writing down your goals and sharing them with those around you will dramatically increase your chances of success in 2009. Dig deep enough that you get to the things that truly motivate you.

2. Begin with the end in mind

No one gets to places that they cannot first see, believe in, or imagine. Your organization needs a clear picture of where you are trying to go in 2009. Paint that picture well with the people in your organization so they can imagine it and aim for it.

3. Determine the strategic steps it will take to get you to this end

Think through what steps it will take to get you where you want to go. Build time and organizational resources into your schedule to make sure that you give enough attention to these steps and how you are going to accomplish them. Most owners and CEO’s use this time to react to situations when it is too late. Don’t wait for crisis to do the strategic work that will propel you to the next level. Do it now.

4. Use your financial tools to keep your feet on the ground

Cash is the lifeblood of your business. Your budget is your guide to controlling cash. Key indicators tell you where you are going as a business. In lean times you need to know where you stand, and where your opportunities and threats are.

5. Meet with your key advisers

Your accountant, lawyer, marketing consultants, strategists, and other advisers are there to get you out of the weeds and to help you see reality. But they can’t do that if you don’t take the time to meet with them. Lots of companies contact their advisers when they have a crisis or need special assistance on a project. Successful organizations keep wise counselors close so they can give them additional feedback as they plan for the coming year.

6. Decide to change the things that are holding you back: character issues, poor time management, bad works habits

An organization achieves to the potential of its collective character. There isn’t a shortcut to character. It takes dedication, discipline, and training to change. The only way to start the process is to assess today what needs to change in order to develop your character and that of your staff. Determine the fundamental changes that need to take place and how you are going to make the changes. Get help where you need it from a counselor, coach, mentor, pastor, or other trusted friend and adviser.

After completing these steps, sleep well knowing you have done what you need to begin 2009. You have prepared for the things that are out of your control by controlling the things that are in your control. Sleep well.

Keep moving forward,

Greg

p.s. The Kanon Group was recently profiled in the Emyth Worldwide weekly newsletter. Check it out here.