Well, there went February, and those doldrums are still here! We continue to experience it in our economy, political landscape, healthcare dilemma, real estate and job markets, and even our weather. And you wondered how much it can really snow?! Surprise! What in the world is going on? And..we are still in the water splashing around. Maybe the Olympics’ are a significant indication of how strong we really are, and that we truly are winners.
But…what does it really take in our businesses? Do the words Creativity and Innovation mean anything to you? Because, that is exactly what it takes. Our world has turned upside down and so we ‘cannot solve our new problems with the same thinking that got us here’.* We are no longer on the upswing, but in the downhill race to the finish. So, polish up your creative juices, figure out what it’s going to take to innovate these new ideas, and get moving!
Markets are widened by fulfilling these new needs, which tends to stimulate even newer ones. Responding with speed and intensity is the name of the game. The ability to shift your resources and focus on new areas can create an instant competitive advantage. And, remember, big companies are more sluggish in their ability to make changes. Take advantage and take calculated risks! Stay ahead of the curve or be left behind. Think Apple, Netflix, and those companies that keep reinventing themselves and blowing the lid off of the market. You can do it too! Yes you can!!
The internet and cable TV cannot satisfy the increasing demand for personalized items and options. YOU CAN! There is evidence of an escalating demand for diverse products and services that need to be provided in smaller quantities. Does this grab your attention?
We have done enough looking in the rearview mirror! STOP looking at your spreadsheets, and START spending your time, money and energy on Think Tanks and innovative ideas, then turn them into real products and services. How creative can you be? Why don’t you find out?
Be open to the future. Our country has always been visionary. It was founded on that and it is in our USA/DNA. Your grandfather’s did it, so it’s also in your DNA! Don’t sit on the sidelines and watch the parade go by. What part will you play? Partner up; form alliances and make it happen. How can you compete in a superfast world? Create a culture of innovation in your realm of influence. Use the diversity that is around you for fresh, new ideas – age, cultural and racial differences, genders, different professions, creative designers/artists/animators, etc. Stop playing defense. It’s not just about cutting costs; it’s about creating new opportunities. How are you selling? Can you do it differently? Do you make it easy to do business with you? Does your entire business model need to be updated? The real risk is DOING NOTHING!
Efficiency comes in small packages; you are close to the action and know what it takes to build a stronger, more vibrant, and maybe even different looking business. The time is NOW and has never been better. The old ways are crumbling, but take a lesson from nature, that is just compost for new, stronger, more vibrant growth. Go for it!
*Albert Einstein