Perhaps you’ve begun to look around, to wonder about missed opportunities and the possibility of second chances. Perhaps you’re ready to step out of the marching masses, to the beat of your own drum; ready to take the plunge. Where do you begin? Which idea do you pursue? What about security, your family, the risk of choosing change? What happens if you fail?
The risk of choosing change is that you may, in fact, fail. Your passion may override reason and leave you broke, embarrassed and back where you started. Despite your best intentions, your family may not support you or you may end up being unable to support them. You need a plan, an exit strategy, an attainable goal and the right tools to implement it.
As you prepare to take the plunge, here are three practical tools you can use:
1. Choose an objective advisor with relevant insight and experience.
When planning a big change, it’s normal to confide in family and friends. The excitement or trepidation surrounding your plans will most likely be shared by those closest to you. Family and friends, however, are not always the best advisors.
You need an objective source to offer you a greater sense of perspective and the kind of advice that will build your success. The best way to find an advisor like this is to look for a mentor in the field you’re exploring or to find a business coach with relevant expertise to assist you. Be sure to make good use of their help – one conversation can turn a poor idea into a great one.
2. Plan your goals.
You may be starting out with an end-goal in mind, but the steps necessary to get there are made up of smaller goals that are equally important. Start by tracing the path to your end-goal with these necessary steps laid out along the way. Then look at your immediate goals and draw up an action plan to accomplish them.
Focussing on two or three goals at a time and taking specific action to achieve them will help develop your confidence and momentum. You’ll be returning to the drawing board throughout this process to refocus and take action, until you reach your end-goal.
3. Be practical and prepared.
These are two of the greatest stumbling blocks you may face as you get ready to take the plunge. Being practical means setting realistic goals that are attainable and measurable within a certain time-frame.
A realistic goal will differ from person to person, so it’s important to be honest with yourself. This does not mean giving up on your big dream. It does mean taking into account all aspects of your life as you work towards your big dream to ensure that every step you take is practical, powerful and meaningful.
As you progress, you will come up against your fears and negative beliefs. Identifying these from the start and working to overcome them is essential preparation if you plan to succeed. The alternative is being ambushed by your fears or sabotaged by your negative beliefs before your goals are achieved.
Regardless of your efforts and intentions, your belief system will ultimately determine your experience. Working with a life coach to help understand and shift your beliefs, to develop confidence and tools to manage your fears, will lay a firm foundation for your ongoing success in life and business.
