At the outset of the 90-Day Content Marketing Challenge, I established a set of daily, weekly and monthly Action Items related to various aspects of Content Marketing. The goal in doing so was twofold: 1.) to incorporate as many elements of Content Marketing (i.e., Article Marketing, daily blogging, social media, etc…) as possible into the program and 2.) to create a road map for myself and others to follow.
I knew going in that it would be challenging to accomplish all of these tasks on top of my “regularly scheduled programming” – but I’ve always believed it is better to set “stretch” goals than easy ones. This is because even if you don’t hit them 100%, you will still push yourself to accomplish more than you would otherwise.
Over the course of the last 90 days I came to realize how true this is.
It wasn’t so much the specifics of the tasks I had outlined to do each day (my stretch goals) – it was whether or not I disciplined myself to do something (ANYTHING) each and every day. THAT is where any forward movement came from – not sticking to a specific action plan. (Now, don’t get me wrong – you need specific goals to know where you are heading, but don’t let them bog you down to the point of inaction). Even baby steps forward are infinitely better than standing still!
It truly does come down to taking ACTION. Consistent Daily Action.
It’s easy to stand at the base of the mountain and think “no way can I do that” and give up before you even start. Or worse, you might decide to try something, only to get frustrated and quit because you aren’t executing on every last detail like you think you should. This thought process is self-defeating, but it is very easy to overcome if you commit to doing just one thing every day.
Just one thing.
Bottom Line:
All the thinking, wondering and wishing in the world is not going to grow and build your business. Likewise, eBooks, seminars, and forum discussions are all great ways to increase your knowledge base and give yourself the tools to succeed. However, if that stuff stays between your ears … it will not help you move forward either in business or in life.
But, applying that knowledge and actually using it will.
The thing I take from this challenge (and the thing I hope resonates with you, as well) is that little things add up over time. A half an hour here and a quick article there will eventually accumulate into something worthwhile if you stick with it.
So, go ahead and dream. In fact, dream big. Write it ALL out – make your plans and create the Action Steps you need to get there.
Just make sure to carve out a little time each day to put those dreams into action.
Til Next Time,
PS One of the best things I’ve done for myself and my business is to get involved in Lynn Terry’s Elite Mastermind Group. I’ve always believed in the value of taking daily action – and have seen the positive effects of this first hand in my life on many occassions. However, surrounding myself with a group of like-minded individuals has really helped me take things to a much higher level.
If taking your business to new heights is part of your game plan for 2010 – I strongly encourage you to at least check this group out. You can cancel at any time – but I highly doubt you do when you see the wealth of resources it opens for you!
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This is something I really need to be reminded of especially lately. I have just felt really overwhelmed because of disorganization and I definitely haven’t been doing all I can as far as business stuff goes. I need to really follow some sort of plan and just do it. Thanks for the gentle push in the right direction.
Oh and I agree about Lynn’s group. It’s so valuable!
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