You've got big dreams and goals, but the world around you isn't always cooperative. It's a volatile mix of opportunities and roadblocks. So how do you grow in such an unpredictable environment? Ask yourself these three questions to realign your path for success.
Is the Growth I Want Available in This Current Environment?
Your dream is your North Star, but the wind and tides are the market conditions, the competition, and even global events. If you're sailing against the wind, you might not get very far. Take a hard look around. Do people need what you’re offering right now? Is your industry on the rise or in decline? If the growth you're aiming for seems impossible, it might be time to adjust your sails.
Is There a Need for Me to Adjust My Expectations?
Reality check: Sometimes we aim for the stars and hit the ceiling. And that's okay. Ambition drives us, but reality refines us. Maybe you expected to triple your revenue or gain hundreds of new customers. But if you're not getting there, ask yourself why. Is your goal unrealistic in the current climate? If yes, don't see it as a failure; see it as a pivot. Change your expectations to suit the world you're operating in, not the one you wish you were in.
How Do I Build a Plan Congruent With the Environment I'm In?
Goals without plans are just wishes. Look at your environment, understand its limitations, and carve a path that makes sense. Maybe that means scaling down but speeding up, or perhaps it means investing more in digital than physical assets. Your plan should be a living, breathing document that evolves with the changing tides.
The Bottom Line
As you navigate the choppy waters of life and business, these three questions can act as your compass. They'll help you understand where you can go, what you can realistically aim for, and how to plan for it. In an ever-changing world, your ability to ask the right questions is your most valuable asset. Use it wisely, and you won't just survive, you'll thrive.