“Your mind is like an umbrella – it only works when it is open”
I heard this saying today and it certainly resonated as a business owner. When running a business day to day, you are so focussed on the detail of clients, staff, budgets, cash flow and revenue that you forget to stand outside your business and open your mind. It is amazing the amount of opportunities we all miss because we are too busy to notice them.
I recently had the pleasure of spending time with Terri Irwin, the wife of the late Steve Irwin; of ‘Crocodile Hunter’ fame. When talking to Terri about running her business, Australia Zoo, (a sizeable business with over 400 staff) she talked about the importance of seeing the opportunity in business, and being able to grab it. She said one of the most incredible things about Steve Irwin was his ability to snatch an opportunity with both hands and have utter faith that he could make it happen; no matter how crazy the plan sounded.
Terri now lives by the example Steve set – looking for every opportunity that presents itself to grow her business into new markets and in new ways. Her passion is very evident and so is her confidence in her ability to be able to achieve her goals.
By opening our minds and having faith in our ability, we can transform our business from good to great, and provide a service to our clients that can be life changing.
There are three key things you need to do to make the most of your opportunities:
- Take time and space away from your business. While things may be crazy busy, even a day a month outside of the office can make a big difference
- Surround yourself with positive people. Most people tend to be pessimistic, which can stop us believing in the big picture
- Trust your instincts. IF something looks like an opportunity, it most likely is. Don’t second guess yourself – take action!
Good luck in realising your potential. I would love to hear from you on the progress of your business – so do let me know via the website.
Vanessa Stoykov is a leading financial services strategist and recognised commentator on business and communications issues facing organisations in local and international markets.
She is CEO and Strategy Director of evolution media, (creators of No More Practice) a company she founded in 1999. evolution media, a former BRW Fast 100 company, is considered to be at the forefront of digital innovation in communication for the financial services industry.
Vanessa was also a finalist in the 2008 Telstra Young Business Woman of the Year awards.
