Originally Published: 2/27/2009

When you hear the word discipline what pictures come to mind?  Perhaps a parent disciplining a child who has done something wrong?  Maybe military personnel being disciplined for a bad act?  Or maybe you think of someone disciplining themselves on the foods they eat and the activities they do to lose weight?

The word “discipline” can have several meanings.  The meaning I’m discussing today is pertaining to a business owner, entrepreneur, solopreneur — you name it.  In what ways does a business owner, entrepreneur and solopreneur require discipline?

First, there is the discipline to meet the deadlines imposed on them by their clients, or by themselves to their clients.  It surprises me how many entrepreneurs do not have the self-discipline to meet these deadlines.

Next is the self-discipline to do the tasks that are required to run a business, like returning phone calls, creating marketing strategies, implementation and continuance of those strategies, as well as bookkeeping, administration and organization.

And the work-at-home entrepreneur must have the discipline to turn off the TV, get off the couch and work — either on clients’ work or running their business.  For some, the temptation to play instead of work is too much!!

How can hiring a Virtual Assistant help you be more disciplined?  Well, first you need to find one who will hold you accountable, someone you have to answer to, someone who will be your conscience and help you stay on track and stay focused….stay disciplined.

A Virtual Assistant who is an online business manager can do all those things.  We will work with you — and nag you when need be — to help you run a successful business.  Are you more likely to write that first article when you know your Virtual Assistant will be calling to see how it’s going and hold you accountable or when no one will be calling?