As business owners there are so many things we’re supposed to do, have to do and want to do. We know we’re supposed to be actively marketing our businesses and staying on top of all the new marketing trends. We’re supposed to be networking and making sure that our pipeline, funnel or whatever you want to call it stays full. We’re supposed to create new products and programs so that our material stays fresh and we continue to expand our reach. We’re supposed to take care of ourselves and make sure that we’re balancing our lives with our businesses. And of course, we’re supposed to earn income. Just thinking about it all is exhausting…forget doing it!

1. Take a look at what’s going on in your business and life and identify your one primary goal. More clients? More income? Writing a book? Spreading your influence? More time for self care? More time with your friends and family?
2. Look over your to-do list and circle the activities that directly support that one goal.
3. Now take it further and highlight the one activity that will bring you closest to your goal.
4. Look at the one thing that you have highlighted. What are the first few steps you can take to do it and when will you take those steps?
5. Okay, now here’s the tricky part. You know all of the other things that you’re supposed to be doing? Cross them off. Focus your attention on the most important things that support your personal goals.

Yes, you are right. The reality is that you can’t devote every minute to one project. Emails still have to be responded to, you still need to work with your current clients, and you need to stay on top of ongoing projects. However, you can take a lot of the “shoulds” and “supposed tos” off your list and give yourself permission to devote specific time and energy to the one thing that will make the biggest difference for you. What are one or two simple steps you can take each day to move you towards your primary goal?