The Strategic Plan
If you don’t define your destiny, then you aimlessly wander. A clear vision influences everything you do. It’s like the beacon sitting on the top of a lighthouse.
If you don’t define your dream #accounting firm, then you’ll aimlessly wander. Read how to take charge. #shestheboss #getpaidwhatyoureworth Click To Tweet
Recently, Steve and I decided we wanted more clarity about our destiny. So, we scheduled time to develop our strategic plan. Our phones, text and email were shut down. We devoted the entire weekend to clarifying our future.
First, we reviewed the past year. We celebrated our joys and wins. Next, we listed our failures and the insights we gained from them. Finally, we acknowledged the hidden blessings which were sprinkled throughout the year.
Define Your Future
After our year in review, we defined our future. Our strategic plan focused on four highly important areas in our life. Then each area had three specific subcategories.
An entire afternoon was devoted to carving out our future. We wrote a short paragraph describing the ideal circumstances for each area of our life. Rather than strive for something achievable, we stretched beyond the sure thing.
After each activity, we read and discussed what we each wrote. Tears, laughter and dreams were shared. Much of what I wanted, Steve wanted too. Of course, we had some separate aspirations.
Rather than solely focus on the dream, we chose to also voice our perceived limitations. Yes, we listed our limiting beliefs. Because we created a safe space, we felt comfortable being vulnerable and transparent.
I believe negatives can be turned into positives; we did this with our fears and worries. Each limiting belief had an opposite positive belief written next to it. Surprisingly, this specific exercise challenged me. However, I realize it’s a resource we review throughout the year when overwhelm or doubts arise.
Co-dependency Ruins Your Business
Because I’m the boss, it’s my responsibility to give Steve direction. We discussed expectations during our strategic planning retreat. As a result, we’re expanding Steve’s role over the next 12 months.
Working together requires clear boundaries. If our marriage wasn’t strong, then working together would cause more problems than it solves.
Working together in your #accounting firm requires clear boundaries. Otherwise, it would cause more problems than it solves. Read how to make this work. #shestheboss #getpaidwhatyoureworth Click To Tweet
That’s exactly what I see with many of the couples we coach who work together in their accounting practice. Since I’m working with accounting professionals, they sometimes lack clear boundaries. Instead of leading the team, even if the teammate is a spouse, they end up micro-managing or picking up the slack.
By the way, those tendencies cross over to your customer relationships, too. When you find yourself working harder than your client, it’s an unbalanced relationship. Although you believe you’re helping your client, you’re really not.
Codependency occurs in all types of relationships, professionally and personally. You’re not codependent in one aspect of your life and adhering to firm boundaries in all your other relationships. It doesn’t work that way. Over time, frustration and resentment builds up.
This hurts your company’s productivity. Don’t confuse codependency with leadership. Since many of our clients set high standards for their business, they naturally pick up the slack. Once clients replace rescue actions with leadership. As a result, they transform their employee mindset into a CEO mindset.
The Journey Together
The journey to build a business together comes with celebrations and challenges. An open mind is essential. Our strategic plan keeps us on the same page.
When I first started business coaching, I rarely disclosed anything about myself. My training as a therapist taught me to guard my private life.
Consistently working with a business coach, and participating in mastermind groups, turned things around. I now realize there is more to gain by sharing about myself and not knowing it all. Sharing the human side, including flaws and mistakes, requires courage.
Your Inner Circle
Although Steve is married to the boss, I consistently seek outside support. My inner circle includes Steve, my business coach and mentors. As a result, I gain valuable insights from various perspectives.
How well defined is your strategic plan? Successful business partnerships lead to professional growth and enrich your marriage. It’s possible to confidently own your position as the CEO of your business.
Follow these recommendations for your business to be successful, and grow while keeping your passion alive. Discover how to get paid what you are worth and attract clients who understand your value. Right NOW claim your FREE RESOURCE to earn more without being a slave to your accounting practice.
