Are you familiar with the TV series “The Hoarders?” I have seen it several times, and I felt like a hoarder when I was working on a significant project. You can find files, papers and pens everywhere, all over the place. Every wall has flip chart paper.
When the year is in full swing, I look through my inbox on my computer and feel like a hoarder. Are you ever feeling that way?
Although we may not all be at the “hoarding” stage, I am sure that many of us can relate to the term “clutter” when it comes to running your business. Let’s get started in the New Year by addressing these issues and offering solutions.
1) YOUR OFFICE.
I assume you do work in an office. Because I’ve had many conversations with entrepreneurs who confess to having moved into their office from the dining room or other areas of their homes or buildings where there is a flat, clear surface, I asked that question. Seriously? Although it is hard to believe, this is very true for many. It is impossible to run a business in this way. A cluttered office = chaotic mind = chaos.
SOLUTION: Here are some suggestions. 1) Set aside an hour each day to tackle the chaos in your office. Focus on one corner of your office and keep it that way. Make sure you have trash bags and recycle bins on hand. It’s essential to write it down and keep your promise! You’ll see the money and energy flowing into your business before you know it. You will be happier! 2) Get a professional organizer. They do exist. They are excellent at what they do. Contact one of them today to get started on your new year.
2) CLIENT FILE.
Although it may sound strange to you, I’m actually referring to your client base. These are the people you currently work with. We often accept clients with ‘a a pulse’ and a dollar, but as we work with them for a shorter time, we realize that they are actually just like ‘clutter. They are not the ideal client. They are a drain on your time, energy, and resources. This is a sure way to stop your business from growing.
SOLUTION: I suggest to my clients that they categorize the client database as A, B, and C. They are your ideal clients because they are reliable, on-time, engaged, give testimonials and refer others. They are your best clients. They are often potential ‘A’s but have not been nurtured. It’s easy. Set up a time when you can get started. These are the clients who complain about you and don’t pay. It’s time to fire them. Clear the clutter and make room for new clients. You need to be positive to grow your business. Working with clients who are ‘C’ is not going to help you. Clean out your client files, and see the immediate impact this has on your business.
3) COMPUTER INBOX
You are nodding your head because you already know where I’m going with this! What is the most recent time you cleared your inbox of clutter? Not just your computer, but your iPhone, Ipad, and all other electronic devices that store your emails. It drains your energy every time you check your inbox. It’s time to make a change!
SOLUTION: Schedule a time for clearing out the clutter. It made a big difference for me over the holidays. You can hire a VA to assist you, especially with things like Facebook messages or photos that have been piling up. You have two options: either do it slowly every day, schedule some time, in the end, to get on it or hire someone to help you. It will make you so happy. Lastly, you should try to reduce the number of emails that you receive each week or day to between 10-20. This is an easy habit to develop. My Friday 50 practice is 50 emails per day. It’s great. It will be yours.
4) YOUR MINDSET.
Yes, clutter exists! Negative thinking is a particular example. This is a lot of clutter that must be eliminated. Negative thoughts can hold you back. Fear can hold you back. You will not be able to grow a profitable and thriving business if you are afraid or hesitant.
SOLUTION: There are many classes, books, and courses. These days, critical thinking skills are in high demand. To make 2014 a success, you must change your thinking. You can change your review and how you perform. This is a serious matter. Make time to develop the critical thinking skills that will assist you in evaluating your expectations, habits, and beliefs. This is your year to be positive.
5) YOUR HOME.
This is an essential component of clearing clutter. If there is chaos outside, it is also chaos inside. Get rid of anything that isn’t serving you. We have so much as a nation. It just sits around, getting in the way of our progress. It blocks energy.
SOLUTION: Start with small bites. You can set a timer and work on it for 30 minutes. You can do one small task each week. You’ll feel the energy flow and love it before you know it.
6) YOUR CIRCLE of INFLUENCE.
Les Brown said, “Some people are not good to you.” Eliminate toxic people from your life – your family, friends, colleagues and your team. They must be eliminated. They are not suitable for your health. They are the weakest link, and you will always default to their energy.
SOLUTION: Create a list of people with whom you spend the most time. You must identify the people who contribute to your energy and success. They are the keepers. They must be eliminated. They must go! Don’t write to me to tell me how hard this is; I’ve been there and done that. No regrets! This is possible. This is crucial to your health and your business’s success.
As an entrepreneur, clearing the clutter should become your way of life. Nothing can stop you from achieving your goals. Get started today! As you attract the right clients, make more income and make a difference in your life, watch as it all happens. Isn’t that the point?
Pat Mussieux quickly rose to be a respected mentor for Canadian women entrepreneurs. She took her business from zero to a multi-million dollar home-based business in just four years. Her expertise in marketing, mindset, and money is a critical factor in her success.
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