As entrepreneurs, ideas constantly run through our heads, but we
don't always have time to implement them. We add those ideas to
our to-do lists, but then often neglect them. If you're feeling
discouraged about moving your ideas forward, here is a way to
rekindle your fire, refresh your goals and finally make some
progress: Set a date within the next week for an
"idea-implementation day"--a time to free your
imagination to make a plan for accomplishing a specific goal.
Begin by defining your goal--you cannot succeed if you don't
know where you're going. Then:
1. Spend a focused hour developing three alternative
idea-implementation methods. Your creativity brings out special
insights and solutions. Most of us do not like planning; we enjoy
dreaming. Take time to create at least three ways to accomplish
your goal. Brainstorm solutions that will help you achieve success
by contemplating your goal from all possible angles.
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2. Choose one of the methods. Focus, and move in a
direction that is right for you. Review the ideas you generated,
and choose one that you think would be fun to complete. Challenge
yourself to pick a novel method that puts you outside your comfort
zone. Use your intuition, and choose one that fits your
personality. If you truly enjoy your plan, you will do it.
3. Believe you can achieve it. Every great accomplishment
begins with a seed of belief. It will take work, but when you
believe, solutions arise to help you. Tell yourself, "I can
achieve this goal."
4. Write down the steps you will take. Itemize the tasks
needed to complete your implementation method. Then, prioritize the
tasks to provide yourself with a roadmap for success.
5. Carry out your defined tasks. Immediately take your
first step toward accomplishing your goal. Taking action motivates
you to move forward with confidence.
6. Make a commitment to yourself to finish any remaining
tasks. Your momentum builds with each step you take. Before you
end your day, assign start and finish dates to any uncompleted
tasks so you do not become overwhelmed. This list turns into your
"idea action plan," which you can share with anyone who
asks you, "How can I help grow your business?"
Don't wait until next spring to plan your next
idea-implementation day. Schedule one each month to reenergize your
efforts and accomplish goals to grow your business. And reward
yourself when you complete a difficult task--it will motivate you
to continue on your path to success.
Speaker and consultant Romanus Wolter, aka "The Kick
Start Guy," is author of Kick Start Your Dream Business.