Over the next few weeks, we’ll be bombarded with commercials for fitness club memberships and all of those other things we’re supposed to have in our new year’s resolutions designed for “self-improvement.” While most people give up on their resolutions by February, the custom still presents an opportunity to consider everyday routines and what aspects might be improved. And that applies to business routines too.
Stepping Back to See the Big Picture
Perspective is one of the greatest tools…and it’s a lot more difficult to achieve than people think. It takes effort to really detach from circumstances and see the big picture, without any emotional or personal attachments to cloud the image. Even so, January is definitely the time to stop and look at your routines. Hopefully you’ve enjoyed some time off for the holidays, so, as you’re digging out from all of the accumulated email, remember to find some time to reflect on your situation. Be honest, be open, and you might be surprised by some of the things you see.
Listening to Expert Advice
In this issue, we’re pleased to bring a legal expert to the month’s line-up of articles – Holt Gwyn of Conner Gwyn Schenck pllc. Members of the Capital Area and Carolinas Chapters of SBCA already know what a terrific resource Holt has been to them, so now other areas of the country will be able to benefit from some of his excellent perspective on subcontract clauses. His article is a perfect example of the need to step back and review ordinary items which we might overlook and which might cost more than they appear.
In Lumber Briefs by Matt Layman, a column written specifically for The Advertiser, Matt continues his “Save Money Series” with more insight to help you anticipate lumber prices and plan accordingly. In addition, a companion special update from Matt on interest rates is certain to make everyone think twice about their purchasing decisions and the economic outlook for 2017.
In fact, all of our contributors offer food for thought that you can relate to your business. After considering their input, you’re welcome to follow up with them directly if you’d like to discuss the topics further or drop us a line with your thoughts if you have more to share.
Seeing Change as Opportunity
In the end, the real success of a new year’s resolution is whether or not it leads to a change for the better. The change may not be complete, and it may not last forever, but even incremental steps forward are productive. In fact, even unwelcome changes can be opportunities in disguise. The key is to pause, reassess the situation, apply the lessons you’ve learned throughout your journey to this point, and then travel on forward.