Gradual change = Massive improvements over time

The last few months have been particularly interesting. 2013 started with huge confidence and has become a year of consolidation and “dipping the toe” in the water of expansion. In order to grow it is critical to set precedents and ensure that you have developed a strong foundation…not rocket science, we all know that, but how do we ensure that we attend to the foundation while growing and without losing our USPs and the reasons we started the business in the first place?

A great challenge and one that can be achieved through the following steps:
: Review and discuss the long term view with everyone involved
: Gather information and listen
: Initiate difficult conversations/brick walls are occasionally raised by those reluctant to change
: Consider all aspects and listen again
: Objectively assess the priorities of the changes required
: Ensure the team is engaged with the changes
: Proceed slowly but confidently
: Take it one step at a time….and continue to return to the plan

Not easy but it can be compared to the gradual changes you make to your own fitness and health, either make small changes resulting in improved long term habits or not bother at all…..an easy choice to make but one that needs objectivity, perspective and good communication, and of course, pro-active planning.