Just finished another busy Christmas season. No matter how hard we try, we always seem to have some emergency that wants to screw things up during our busy time.
I believe this is the norm. As a business owner trying to grow your enterprise, you will be faced with a non-stop barrage of problems to deal with. Some will be big and come at the worst possible time. As you fight through them, your knowledge and business skills improve.
Don't expect to get to the point where you never make mistakes. You will continue to make mistakes. The trick is to avoid the one that puts you out of business.
There are very few overnight successes. Look around you and pick out a few businesses and businesspeople you admire. Chances are they have been in business longer than you think.
I am forever asking business owners I come in contact with to see how long they have been at it. The answers are encouraging from the standpoint that they make me realize we are still young and growing and the best is yet to come. Unwillingness to give up, creativity, ability to live with uncertainty, a sense of humor, patience, a supportive spouse, balance in your life — these things you will need to make your enterprise a success.
Our goal this year is a 33% increase in shipments. This will require things to run smoother. No parts shortages. Happier, more-motivated employees. Better cash flow. Most of this is possible with better planning. I had better get to work!
I hope this is the year that you take the plunge. Or if your already have, I hope you re-dedicate yourself to making a go of your business.