Copy Doodle

Let’s say you’re planning a two week road trip from Connecticut to California. You pack accordingly. You have the camera and backup batteries, the cooler is packed, your bank account in order. The departure day arrives, and you’re off. You don’t need a map. You know the interstate out of town, and you’ll figure out your next interstate when the road forks or at the next interchange. You’ll follow the signs, plan it by ear, go with your gut. No big deal. After all, how hard can it be to find California?

The above scenario sounds ridiculous, but that is exactly what many people do with their businesses. They have a vague idea of where they are going, but fail to plot the course on how to get there. It happens time and time again. People are so excited about the possibilities, about the future, that they forget (or rather ignore) the importance of planning. We’ve all heard it before, that voice inside of us that screams, “But I don’t wanna!”

While in theory, California is easy to find—head west and you’ll eventually hit it—there is a huge difference between ending up in San Diego versus San Francisco. Different terrain, climate, atmosphere, and the list goes on. Without a map as a guide, you’ll wander aimlessly, the frustrations will build, and many times you’ll head down the wrong road.

A solid plan is the key to achieving any goal.

I challenge you, if you haven’t already, to take time to write out the purpose of your business. Plot your course to success. Treat yourself to a cappuccino (or a cold gin and tonic) or find a quiet spot in the house, and think about your goals. Then write them down as clearly as you can. And be specific. California is specific, but not specific enough. Do you want to visit the mountains in the north or the sunny beaches in the south? And when you get there, what is it that you want to do?

Not only do you need to know what you want to achieve, but why. Figuring out the why will help you understand the driving force. Many people know what they want, or think they know, but never define the motivating factor. What is driving your goal? Is it the opportunity to be your own boss, set your own hours, spend more time with your family, or build something that you can sell?