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Archive for December 2008

Turn Your Life Around

Friday, December 26th, 2008

So a new year is almost upon us and how quickly they seem to go by. You are probably already thinking, what I want to do differently this year. Here are 5 quick tips to get you on track and help you stay there so you can achieve any goal that you set.

1. Clearly identify your goal.

Be as specific as possible. If your goal is to increase business think about how much: one new client per quarter or increase income by $1,000 per month. When you list an identifiable goal it is easier to reach and you are less likely to stop being deterred. However, be realistic because it is easier to achieve smaller goals and work your way up then to strive for the moon and not even leave the Earth.

2. Practice thinking positive.
Nothing will stand in your way more than you if you don’t really believe in your goals and dreams. Who will get on board with you if you are not on board yourself? Create an image board to help you focus on what is important to you. Another tip is to start and end each day with a “Yes I Can” speech. Stand in the mirror and state to yourself, I am going to get one client this quarter.

3. Break you goal into pieces.
What will it take to get that new client you seek? This is where your plan comes into play and by breaking the tasks into small chunks will be easier that one big task. Start with targeting five leads or attending one networking event per week. You will find that you stay more focused when your tasks are attainable from the get go.

4. Allow for failure and set backs
we all make mistakes and this is how we make ourselves stronger and more resilient. Not have the best presentation at your networking event, that is okay, we all have those times and picking yourself up and dusting yourself off is the best way to counteract your failure. Take a look at what you did wrong and work on fixing it for the next event.

5. Employ a friend or mentor
when you have someone to answer to it is easier to stay on task. By having someone to discuss your plan with, it is easier to sort out how you need to tweak your process to make yourself even more successful. Be sure to pick someone who wants the best for you so that you remain positive and focused.

Making changes are not easy but if you employ simple strategies to keep at it, you can and you will achieve any goal you set for yourself. This is a new year, so start it off with a bang and end it with more success than you ever imagined.

Make 2009 Your Year!
All the best
Lee – My Office Assistant

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Categories : Organization

Ten Things to Consider When Working From Home

Monday, December 22nd, 2008

So now you are thinking of working from home.  Working from home is NOT for everyone.  However if this is the route you choose there are several things you need to take into consideration.

1.  Have a dedicated “home office”, preferably an area or room where you will not be disturbed.  To be tax deductible you must make sure that your personal space is separate from your business space and it must be the primary area where your business activities take place.

2.  Pay attention to the lighting, ventilation and ample power in your area.  Poor lighting and ventilation can cause headaches, fatigue and will cause your work to suffer.  You will need adequate lighting to see both your computer screen and your paperwork.  It is a good idea to have both overhead and task lighting.  Also consider natural light from windows.  Have no windows, you may want to invest in full-spectrum bulbs which simulate sunlight.  And make sure your area is neither too hot nor too cold.

3.  Properly equip your home office and keep it professional.   A good desk and storage area is a must.  Also many companies and clients require you to have an internet connection and a dedicated telephone line with an answering service or voice mail.   If you spend a lot of time on the telephone, you may want to invest in a good headset but be mindful of background noise.  Let’s not forget a comfortable chair and decent furniture.  This is especially important if you will be having clients in your home office.

4.  Prepare your short term and long term goals.  Whether it is a business plan or standard operating procedures for your employer, without a plan you will get sidetracked and distracted.  Have a daily schedule and stick to it and don’t forget to schedule a lunch break.

5.  Let your family and friends know your office hours and have them refrain from ringing you unless it is for business reasons.  If you are continually interrupted with non-work related issues you will get nothing done in your work day.

6.  Associate with like-minded people who can inspire and motivate you in the success of your business or career.  Sharing your knowledge with others will be helpful in keeping you at the top of your game.  Join the Chamber of Commerce, local business groups or meet-ups in your area.  Avoid pessimists and negativity from those who rather put roadblocks in your way and continually discourage you. 

7.  Take advantage of the internet and forums.  Many home business owners and entrepreneurs will share their knowledge with you.  But keep in mind it is a two way street so don’t forget to provide your own tips and tricks.  You can find free resources, great marketing tips and just about anything on your type of business.  Be wary though, if it is too good to be true then it usually is.

8.  Learn, learn, and learn.  Upgrade your skills and knowledge by attending workshops and seminars.  Read up on latest trends, new technology and marketing.  And don’t forget to consider learning new skills to help you grow professionally.

9.  Promote your business in every possible way that you can.  Flyers, brochures, emails and classified ads are just a few methods of promotions.  Have business cards with you ALL the time.  Inform family, friends and acquaintances about your business.  Word of mouth is your best promotion of business.

10.  Working from home can be monotonous and lonely at times.  Avoid isolating yourself to the point of depression.  Socialize with friends, family and business acquaintances but don’t let it get in your way of your goal.

Working from home can be rewarding and profitable if you have a good plan and vision.  Keep in mind all the reasons that you have decided to do this and don’t give up.  But most importantly take the time to consider if it is actually right for you.

All the best,

Lee Drozak – My Office Assistant

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Categories : Work from Home

Welcome to a New Year

Monday, December 22nd, 2008

As part of effort to continue learning new things and improving on others I made a conscious decision to regularly blog.  Not only to be consistent but also to integrate it with my website.  So welcome and see you again in 2009!

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Categories : Uncategorized