Aspire to Inspire

"Aspire to inspire." I love these three words. Sounds a little soft in content for a business blog but I think there is transferrable material here. We need inspiration in business don't we?

So where do you get yours? There is no better source than an amazing group of peers and mentors. I challenge you to assess who you are doing business with, where you get your advice and direction as well as what you are feeding your fire with. Consider where you network, what you are reading, where you are learning and determine whether or not your business is growing or not. Or better yet, whether or not you are growing. Our businesses can grow only when we, as individuals grow. Chances are if you can find flaws within your network of customers and colleagues, there will be room for improvement within yourself. You may not be presenting your business appropriately, your person appropriately and perhaps your goals are unclear and send mixed messages to others--subtly, this could be doing damage.

"Be the change." These are more of my favourite words. If you want a successful business, be a successful person. Pretty straigtforward thinking, no? By refocusing on your goals, and recognizing improvement areas you may notice changes in your support systems including the people you work with, talk to and listen to. Success means different things to all of us so base your success upon your standards and reap your rewards. Find a mentor (as most publications suggest) and drill down to decide which parts you really admire about that person or business. The hard part of course is determining what it means to you and your current situation and where you need to go from here. Don't forget to consider all aspects of entrepreneurial life; not just margins and bottom lines.

I am very grateful to have an amazing circle to call upon for encouragement and direction. Not only are there women in business but women in life and parenthood and family. They challenge me and won't let me target for anything but the stars I deserve. The gentlemen know not to tamper with my determination and compassion and I thank them as well for their realistic guidance. Each of them have celebrated with me at various points in my business learning and discovery.

To those who have walked, climbed and run with me; I thank you. Know that you have inspired me to be the best I can be and I look forward to a brand new year!

Nimbly yours,
JCM