Illuminating Insights: 8/25/23
The importance of taking time to work ON the business, instead of IN the business.
Running a solar energy company is, in many ways, like tending to a garden. As the owner, you're not just responsible for the day-to-day operations, but also for nurturing the seeds of growth and ensuring the garden flourishes in the long run. It's easy to get caught up in the routine, but taking time off from working in the business to work on the business is a strategy I use that holds immense potential for holistic development. There are so many benefits of stepping back, even for a short amount of time. This strategy has helped me to gain a multifaceted view of my company, allowing me to fuel its growth from all angles.
As an entrepreneur, it's natural to focus on individual tasks and short-term goals in the hustle and bustle of daily operations. However, staying in this rut can sometimes lead to losing sight of the bigger picture—the overall vision and mission of the company. By taking a step back, you allow yourself to see both the forest and the trees. You can reassess your company's objectives, identify areas that need improvement, and strategize for long-term success. This is where the real magic happens.
Recently, I took about a week to do just this. It felt like the right time to pause and reassess. I did a couple of sanity checks and wanted to ensure that I was leading the company in the right direction as we continue to grow rapidly. Working on the business allowed me the space to use a more analytical perspective. I used this time to identify the company's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT analysis). If you haven’t completed a SWOT analysis before, I highly recommend you go through the exercise. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions. You might discover untapped potential in certain departments or realize that certain processes need optimization. This clarity empowers you to address challenges and play to your strengths, driving growth and efficiency.
Stepping away from day-to-day tasks and immersing yourself in a strategic role can open the door to innovative thinking. You'll have the mental space to brainstorm new ideas, explore emerging technologies, and envision the future of the industry you work within. Innovation is the cornerstone of progress in any industry, and by dedicating time to work on the business, you're creating an environment that nurtures forward-thinking solutions.
Your team is the backbone of any company. When you work ON the business, you're not only focusing on business strategy but also on how to enhance your team's performance and satisfaction. You can develop programs, implement leadership initiatives, and refine communication channels. A well-supported team is more motivated, productive, and aligned with the company's goals—ultimately driving growth collectively.
In the journey of running any company, the paradox of growth often lies in stepping back. Working on the business instead of just in it allows you to gain a view of your company that encompasses its strengths, weaknesses, innovation potential, and the ever-changing market landscape. Embracing this approach enables you to drive sustainable growth, empower your team, and ultimately contribute to the future you would like to see in the world. So, take a step back, harness the power of perspective, and watch your business soar to new heights.
Sincerely,
Infinite Energy Advisors
