I’ll be frank, because we’ve really gone through a challenging year, haven’t we? There’s nothing to hide, and we shouldn’t ignore the hard journey. In fact, let’s be transparent about what we faced. Because, stepping forward into 2021 means looking in the mirror—looking at this year in hindsight 2020— so that we can grow.
I like to say it’s about the progress and not perfection. What action steps will you take this new year’s? Let’s review practical questions together, tips and advice on how you can take action for the new year.
“Progress not Perfection!”
Growth takes time, but if you take a small step each day, I guarantee you’ll make big leaps.
1. So, what challenges did we face?
Oh dear. We faced the COVID-19 pandemic, which sent us through a series of stages for safety. We were sandwiched in an awkward in-between.
Some weeks after the 2020 new year, we were buying masks and stocking up in fear of the uncertainty. Interacting with the staff, our partners and clients online for the most part. If it’s in person, we plan to take safety pre-cautions, wear a mask and keep a safe distance.
Also in 2020… this one is the real shocker…we weren’t getting enough face to face meetings and we miss all of you. Our goals totally shifted. Instead going to in-person networking events or in-person training events, we had to find online alternatives. Good thing we already used Zoom.
But don’t forget there are blessings in disguise. Creativity and new transforming ideas are usually made during these rough times. At Weiskopf, we decided to support our clients and provide free weekly skills trainings throughout the year.
Watch these are free to view on our Youtube <—- channel.
We took this extra step so we could equip your toolkit and help keep you accountable; to still take steps of action in midst the slow-downs and the rush of pandemic life.
Most importantly, knowing there are still six to eight months ahead of the pandemic life, what can you do better? We don’t expect another lock down, but then again, we’re still in an age of uncertainty. Continue to be on your toes, and plan ahead.
2. What will you do better this 2021?
How do you interact more effectively with your clients. These are just a few ideas out of many possibilities.
- How will you meet your clients and perspective customers?
- Maybe you’ll start transitioning more services and offerings online (on Zoom, or Google, or Microsoft).
- Be creative with a promotion on social media?
- After giving a service or sending a blog or email, invite them for an online meeting?
- What needs to happen with work office space, Can responsibilities be remote?
- Which responsibilities must be in-person?
- What should you plan for that (including safety precautions and buying materials like masks)?
Be sure to outline what it is you did this year, what it is you didn’t do (and why). Then steal from yourself. Yes. What worked well this year? Also, what needs to be revised or envisioned in a different way? Build off from what you already have that was working well and good.
3. So, how to get ready for the new year? What action steps should we take?
Now is the time to get in ship shape, so be prepared for a good amount of housekeeping. If there’s too much housekeeping for you to handle in one go, then break tasks into smaller parts. Make it a goal to do two to four tasks a week (whatever you think is smart), or one task a day. In a month, you could have five to twenty-five things checked off your housekeeping list!
Hey, accomplishing five small tasks is better than nothing at all. Here’s a housekeeping list for you to check out—
Housekeeping!
Year End Checklist Click Here
4. Start to make business planning a weekly event
Set aside a specific time where you can plan in advance. Put time on your calendar on Friday afternoon to make these plans. Decide on a marketing plan for a number of months in advance instead of being spontaneous and inconsistent. Consistency is key all around.
In case you missed last Monday’s email, here is a list of the reflection questions we asked you to think about. If you want to chat with us about anything you’ve seen here, give us a call at 630.320.2991!
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- What was one of the best things that happened this year?
- What was one of the most challenging things that happened?
- Unexpected obstacles?
- In what ways did you act to combat this obstacle?
- How did you learn from it?
- What do you need to prioritize?
- What is your vision for your business and what will you do to reach it?
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Whelp! We made it thru 2020
Now, on to 2021!
We can keep doing it. Just one small step at a time. One hour of planning every Friday afternoon. Delegate tasks if you’re able to so you can do more of it. And don’t forget to make some time for yourself this 2021.
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, please reach out immediately. We want to help.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Feel free to share about the challenges and resolutions you’ve been through in 2020. Happy New Year.
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Virginia Weiskopf, Personal Technical Guide
Over 20 years of expertise providing technical solutions that let you focus on your business.