A Summer of Focus!

When I think about summer, I think about how much I love spending time in my garden, taking road trips on the motorcycle and my husband Joe,  or spending time with my friends and family.  I’ve also learned to think of summer as the perfect time to . . . .focus!  Not what you were expecting?  I know! 

Summer is a great time to choose a goal.  I usually pick something I’ve been avoiding or slacking  – but make sure it’s something you can accomplish in three months.  There’s no better way to start your fall knowing that you’ve chosen a goal, worked hard to achieve it, and savor the joy of finishing it. 

Unfortunately, sometimes choosing the goal is harder than actually accomplishing your tasks.  What’s the best way to figure out what goal to tackle?  And how the heck do you focus on it, when there are so many delicious diversions?  We’ll take it one step at a time. 

1. Pick a project that has been building in your mind.  If it’s something you’ve put aside, but want to do – it’s perfect for a summer session.  Make sure the goal you choose is realistic to complete in three months.
2. To succeed with your goal, and to enhance your focus, it’s important to declutter physically.  Make sure your work space makes you feel calm instead of stressed.  Declutter mentally. Are you volunteering too much at school or for other types of organizations?  Saying yes to everyone?  Not focusing on your business?  Take a long look at what you spend your time on, and if it’s too diverse, start shutting them down.  
3. Look at where the lion’s share of your money originates.  If you make most of your money from meeting others at networking meetings, get out there and be the  money maker. Networking events and social gatherings are all excellent places to refine and explain who you are and what you need to be successful. 

As a final suggestion, customer appreciation is always an easy way to generate goodwill as well as new business.  It’s the easiest way to get new clients – word of mouth and business referrals are the best type of marketing!  It’s easy to forget the power of your previous clients.  A good summer goal might be to get in touch with your clients from the previous year.  You can offer them something new, reconnect with them, and tell them what kind of business and clients you are looking for.  Asking clients what they think of your services or a new product is a great way to get them engaged with you again. 

What could you accomplish if you put your mind to it this summer?  Whatever your goal, I wish you the best for your summer.  Enjoy it, and your life!