We are only a few weeks from the 4th quarter of 2012.  Some stores are already bringing out Christmas decorations even though it still feels like summer outside. Most all of my clients are having a banner year and at the same time a number are sensing a cooling trend in activity.

Our focus needs to be:

1-      Finishing 2012 strong at or above business plan goals

2-      Laying a foundation to make 2013 even better

3-      Advancing business regardless of economic and political outcomes

For our Canadian friends, number three is less of an issue.  Your economic trends are much more positive and less is at stake politically this year than in the states.  Nevertheless, outcomes outside of your control are all around you and what happens In the USA can and will affect you to a certain degree.

In the States, a lot is on the line politically and economically.  Looking back we see consumer and business activity chill a bit prior to a Presidential election, with some waiting to see which side will win.  Now I am very opinionated and want to see my party victorious.  At the same time, the big picture that all small business owners and sales professionals must do, is keep their clients moving forward regardless of the outcomes.

The reality is, whoever wins November 6, that party has enormous challenges to work through.  Regardless of which side you are on, it probably won’t be as rosy or dire as everyone predicts.  Life and business will go on either way, and our role is to make sure this happens.

Back to my three points above and addressing the end of 2012 and how to finish strong.  Take these simple steps with your coach/manager/mentor or partner:

• Gather your YTD numbers and review your business plan.
• Determine whether you are:  ahead, tracking or behind where you want to be.
• If you are behind, determine the number of business days left to produce in 2012.
• Reset your monthly/weekly/daily goals to reflect the additional activity needed to close the gap.
• Tighten your accountability and reporting time so that if you are not reaching your targets, you can adjust.

Start thinking about 2013 now and how it can be your best year ever.  Even if you are off your targets for this year, elevate your disciplines, skills and mindsets so the momentum is there and the foundation is laid.  Remember, it’s not what the market is doing as much as what you are doing with in the market that matters.  Decide to thrive and advance no matter the outcomes. Let us know if we can help.

Contact us today if you would like one of our coaches to review your recording and give a free no obligation feedback of your conversation.