Clear heads need to be free of clutter

Someone once said the most important thing in business is to keep a cool head. I agree with that and, in fact, you could probably apply that to any situation in life - particularly those that appear seemingly out of nowhere.

But just as important, I think, is the ability to have a clear head, because I have found that when you mind is clear of clutter you can often see things for what they are and make better decisions.

Holidays are a good time to engage in "de-cluttering of the brain". Thanks to the miracle that is www.bookabach.co.nz, we have managed to find a place where this process is easy.

For an hour each day I worked myself through a strategic planning process and then canoed on a lake to the same spot and tested my thinking. In fact, this year's strategic plan was developed, written and rubber stamped in a small lake inlet in the company of pine trees, cicadas and the occasional swan. The change in environment being integral to being able to see opportunities clearly and set out a plan to take the business forward.

So, what can you do to get some clarity and bring order to your direction and planning?

Many people use exercise to get their minds focused. Others meditate whereas some use music. The key is to look at the big picture.

To be successful, you need to have a plan for yourself and business and my reading over the summer confirmed that it is a core component for most successful business people. The greatest satisfaction I get is when clients report the positive change that has occurred in them/their team and their business.

That is the power that comes from strategic planning and having a clear vision. How often do you get time to clear your mind and think about your goals and those of your business? A client said the best part of the work we did together in 2011 was that we helped her see the business in a new light and enabled a successful expansion strategy - because through Lean continuous improvement techniques we "removed the clutter".

The strategic planning process I apply to my business is the same for my clients. Sometimes having an independent person spend time with you has a similar effect to clearing your head because they can see things that you may be missing.

For assistance with your strategic plan give Zenith Solutions a call on 021-244-2421 and see how we can help you develop your strategic path to success.

Zenith Solutions is a Wanganui-based management consulting practice. Contact russell@zenith-solutions.co.nz or phone 021-244-2421.