My last three blog posts discussed areas to focus for success in 2012. Putting your best foot forward – knowing your numbers – marketing your services. The final focus for success in 2012 is actually the most important.
I believe that your family is your greatest asset; your spouse and your children. Your business comes behind them. Does that mean that your business isn’t important? No, it means you must keep your priorities in place. Your family comes first.
When was the last time you took your spouse on a date? When was the last time you told him or her that you loved them and the told them all the reasons why? A good marriage is full time courtship and a full time job, and it must be taken seriously. It requires good communication, being willing to do whatever it takes to make your special person happy. Being unhappy in a marriage is a distraction, and that is never good for your business.
Children should grow up with praise, not criticism. Hey, kids make mistakes, they do dumb things, and they don’t always get the best of grades. Now tell me you were a perfect kid? Don’t tell your kids they have to get A’s and B’s in school, or they have to have the perfect career. Tell them to do their best every morning. That will bring out the very best in them and not set undue expectations. Don’t yell at them for getting in fights, praise their ability to get along with others and knowing when to walk away.
What do your spouse and children want from you most? Your time, your affection, your approval and attention. Nothing else really matters. As a coach, I often hear from spouses who want more time with their mate. You can buy them all the gifts, toys, and whatever, but those things will not replace you and the time you spend with them.
When your marriage and family is right, your business is right. I have said many times to our coaching clients that a good marriage will almost always promote a good business, but not the other way around. Make sure you get your priorities set and your focus where it needs to be.
If we can help you accomplish the adjustments you may need to make, please give us a call. In the mean time, give your special someone a big hug. Give it a try and you will be amazed at how good it feels and the smile it puts on everyone’s face. Here’s to a happy, successful and profitable 2012.
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to strengthen your construction-related business. Michael is a popular industry speaker as well as an author of two books; “Markup & Profit; A Contractor’s Guide” and “Profitable Sales, A Contractor’s Guide”. You can visit his website, follow him on Twitter and like his page on Facebook for more great advice and tips.
