RISMEDIA, November 10, 2009-Here at Buffini & Company we've coached over 50,000 people in a one-on-one capacity, and have dedicated ourselves to studying, researching and supporting people through the growth process. One thing I've noticed recently is that people are taking a step back and beginning to examine some of the practices they employ in their business.
When the market is flying high and sticking a sign in the yard brings in multiple offers it can be easy to think you're doing better than you necessarily are. The harsh reality is, however, a tougher market always exposes the real truth behind how you're actually doing. And some of us have gotten off track. Below, I detail "The Five Detours on the Road to Success."
1. Lack of Accountability
Every human being does better with accountability because we truly cannot see our own shortcomings; outside perspective is the best way to gain clarity on our patterns.
2. Loss of Motivation
Motivation, by its very nature, is designed to dissipate so we need to seek it out continually. As my friend and mentor, Zig Ziglar, says: "Motivation is like bathing. You have to do it on a daily basis!"
3. In Need of Direction
Once you get things moving and gain some momentum you actually need more direction than you did when you were just starting out. This is borne out by countless people who work their whole life and have nothing to show for it.
4. Isolation
All you have to do is watch the "Animal Planet" documentary on predators in the wild to know how detrimental isolation can be: Predators never attack the pack; they always look for the isolated, hurt, wounded, and lost, the ones who've stopped moving forward. Self-employed people are more predisposed to this isolation than anyone else.
5. Drift
While "isolation" is a predator, "drift" is a killer; it's the "silent assassin" because we don't know how far and how fast we've drifted until something catastrophic happens.
As you can see, the "Five Detours" are things we all face and it can be easy to get off track in both business and our personal lives. But let's examine the solution side of things. If there are detours, then rest assured there are also rules of the road to get you back on track.
Stay on Track with These Rules of the Road
1. Stay Accountable
While it may not be natural to seek out accountability, let's just have a look at what happens in its absence. Tiger Woods - the greatest golfer in the world - recently missed the cut at the British Open. Just so happens it was the first time in five years he didn't bring his coach to a tournament.
2. Brainstorm and Network with Others
We humans do much better when we mastermind together, which is why we facilitate networking at our events, as well as in our Coaching programs and Small Groups. Surround yourself with positive, resourceful, successful people, because they'll lift you up rather than drag you down.
3. Plan Daily Doses of Motivation
Just think of your daily motivation like an essential vitamin, with nothing but positive, good-for-you side effects. Plan daily doses by listening to affirming CDs in your car or by reading good books - just a few lines here or there will go a long way.
4. Follow the System
You know you're in need of direction - everybody is. And we've developed a system that works. Now, I know that few people ever follow the system 100%, but what if that means you're missing out on a 30% jump in your income?! Would that be worth increasing your commitment to the lead-generation activities by just 10%? The Referral Systems work; but only if you do!
5. Work with a Coach
A Coach has the expertise, tools and strategies to help you get your business cranking. That accountability and direction will help you avoid drift - the deadly killer.
This much I do know…there's a reason our Coaching Members averaged $192,000 in income in one of the worst markets we've seen…
The fact that you're still in business means you have weathered the storm and, as I've said before, a recession is a terrible thing to waste. Follow the rules of the road and you'll be launching a great new year.
For more information: Visit http://www.robertjrussell.com
