Running a business can feel like running on a hamster wheel…

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN TO STEP OFF AND REVIEW WHERE YOU ARE GOING?

As we approach the end of the year, thoughts of a new year can bring a sense of a renewal, regeneration and focus on the year ahead. However, with client demands, workflow pressures and running the day-to-day aspects of the business, it can often feel like it is too difficult to step out and take the time to focus on the business. How often do you step back and look at the bigger picture?

What is stopping you from stepping back?

From our experience of working with business leaders in a wide range of sectors, whether new to leadership or experienced, they share many of the same obstacles to taking time out for strategy, planning and reviewing progress:

• Time constraints – overwhelm from day-to-day activities
• Delegation and trust – letting go of control can feel challenging
• Fear of setback – a belief that taking time out may cause disruptions
• Communication – feeling that taking time out may lead to misunderstandings
• Losing control – a fear of disconnect when not continuously involved
• Comfort and habit – lack of knowledge of how to step back

What are the consequences of not taking a step back to review where you are going?

• Reactive decision making and missed opportunities – due to poor clarity and focus
• Lack of direction – making it difficult for the team to work in the same direction
• Ineffective resource planning – leading to increased pressure
• Risk of no movement – progress can become stagnant
• Resistance to change and disengagement – leading to lack of development and loss of employees
• Burn-out – overwhelm and overwork can impact on wellbeing

SO, HOW CAN YOU OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES?…

• Set clear goals – establish objectives and priorities
• Delegate – ensure the right people are doing the right things
• Develop a capable team – ensuring business continues to function efficiently without you
• Develop decision making – encourage autonomy and accountability
• Invest in training and development – develop the necessary skills and knowledge across the business
• Communicate effectively – ensure that all individuals understand the importance of critical tasks
• Regular 1:1s across the business – build the culture
• Create a culture of trust – encourage open communication and collaboration

…AND HOW CAN YOU BENEFIT FROM THE SUPPORT OF AN EXPERIENCED LEADERSHIP COACH

An experienced leadership coach can help you gain:

• Clarity of thinking – untangling the problems that persist
• An objective perspective – an unbiased approach to challenge your thinking
• Accountability – someone to hold you to account
• Leadership skills development – identify and work on areas for improvements
• Increased problem solving – leading to improved decision making
• Increased confidence – leading to increased delegation
• Enhanced productivity – ensuring the business continues to run smoothly
• A culture of trust – embedded trust improves autonomy and culpability

WORKING WITH GROWTH PLANS^®

Growth Plans^® provides a confidential, friendly, supportive and challenging space for growth as a leader.

Are you a decision maker with responsibility for developing and delivering strategy?

We work with:

• Directors
• Companies with 40-300 employees
• All industries

If you’d like to know more then contact Liz Whitfield to see if she is right for you and you are right for Growth Plans^®. [email protected]