I'm pondering decisions about how best to use my time in 2010, so I was struck by a recent post from Terri Lonier on her Working Solo Minute. It would not surprise me in the least if many entrepreneurs are thinking about what to do differently as they face yet another potentially difficult year. Lonier's advice isn't entirely the usual type of business analysis that people recommend. She goes another layer deeper:
Here are her thoughts (abbreviated a bit, but in her words):
1. Where's the energy?
We can draw up the pro-and-con lists, articulate rationalizations, and craft logical arguments. But we cannot deny another question, posed to me by a close colleague: "Which option gives you the biggest energy jolt?"
2. Where's the future?
Pull out a pencil or favorite marker, some blank paper, and chart out the possibilities...[create] a map of possibilities. If "a" happens, then what are the potential "b" futures? Or, if "x" is pursued, what "y" opportunities (or limitations) emerge?3. Who's in charge here, anyway?
It's valuable to solicit feedback from multiple parties, particularly those who may have very different views than your own. Their insights bring new perspective to your thinking. It's crucial, however, to be clear on who makes the final evaluation. Only you? In concert with a spouse or life partner? Others?
All three are important to consider. But to my surprise, #1 keeps jumping out and influencing me. I believe the reason many people procrastinate about making decisions is their failure to come to terms with where their "energy" wants them to go. If it's your decision alone, you might want to listen to #1.
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