How do you plan for success? In the span of my career, I’ve worked with dozens of entrepreneurs, who employ similar tactics to reach their goals, for example, dedication, passion, perseverance. But in the 40+ years that I’ve been working, there is a host of other techniques and secrets that leaders use to achieve success. One of the easiest tips? Writing and creating lists.
While one might associate list making with trips to the grocery store, lists can be excellent resources to help keep you in charge of your projects, aspirations, and future plans. All business owners should maintain and keep the following lists.
Focusing Your Goals
Lists can be incredibly helpful when managing your short-term and long-term goals. Because goals are created as an intangible idea, it’s critical that you record and track your goals as you progress in your business. It can be easy for entrepreneurs to lose track of their long-term aspirations when managing the day-to-day responsibilities of the business. Lists are excellent solutions to keep the plans for a business focused. The way to utilize a list is to keep it near your desk. Make it a habit of referencing your lists every month. This can be a great way to see how far you’ve come in a designated amount of time.
How You’ve Succeeded
So many lists often involve goals or projects that you have not accomplished yet. While these lists are important, they can also feel overwhelming. Why not keep a spreadsheet or running list of all of the successes you find during the week, month, or year. This can be equally as important as your goal sheet for it allows you to compare your progress. This list can also help keep you motivated. It’s much more enjoyable to track what we’ve completed, not when we’ll complete it.
Connections Lists
All good CEO’s keep running lists of important industry leaders to meet. These connections can be extremely valuable to your and your business. While you’re networking at a party, keep your ears open for names dropped by co workers, clients, friends. Add these to your list at home and make it a weekly habit of spending time researching and following the individual online. If possible, ask your connection for an introduction. This can be via email or in person. Take advantage of your personal and professional networks to connect yourself with new leaders every chance you can.
Personal List
This last example is a great way to continue personal growth. Many entrepreneurs devote time to tracking and planning their own growth. Why is this important? The most successful companies are operated by people who value change and continued learning at all stages of life.
Check out the list below. What lists do you use to stay focused and keep your goals on track?
