“And there’s the whirligig of time bringing its revenges.” Hamlet

Happy New Decade! Sounds good doesn’t it, but it depends on what it means to you. Perhaps it means a fresh start or just another ten years gone from your life. It’s all a matter of perspective and considering that our emotional responses can significantly warp the accuracy of said perspectives, taking an objective inventory could bring a surprise, albeit a very pleasant surprise, or two. You have accomplished and know more than you may realize.

Last year was the year to end all years for many fraught with change, loss, disaster, and even some joy with a miracle or two. The whole world seemed to stand still for a moment and take a deep breath before plunging forward into the unknown. And here we are on the threshold of a brand new decade. Think of the possibilities, the second chances! Most people I’ve spoken with have reinvented their lives or are in the process of figuring out what their next step is. The recession has indeed impacted how many of us see our lives and the need for change, to rewrite our scripts so-to-speak.

Yes, it is true that nothing will ever be the same, but isn’t that a blessing in itself? Horizons need to be expanded, core beliefs need to be examined, and fears need to be addressed and understood. Most people truly abhor change and some become frozen in the headlights, unable to take action. Stepping out of the comfort zone, no matter how mundane and stifling, can strike terror to even the stoutest heart. But we are now living in a time when to not take action is the greatest waste.

As the world continues to shrink, social thinking seems to be harking back to the 60’s and the 70’s when political, sexual, environmental, biological, and economic revolutions were the theme. The concept of green; recycled materials, biodegradable products, environmentally friendly is far from new. It all just got shoved under the carpet for a few decades. Advocacy is also on the rise along with community involvement. For a lot of us, particularly over 50 baby boomers, this mindset has stayed with us throughout the years to one degree or another.

Advertising has grabbed on hard to this ‘what’s old is new again’ message. Companies, those who are surviving, are stepping up to the green plate and moving right along. What does this all mean to the solo-preneur and small business owner of today? If your business growth has been based on referrals, and it’s few that aren’t, your phone may not be ringing as much lately. Marketing strategies need to be evolved, new niche markets targeted and networking honed down to a fine skill. We all need to be consummate trend-trackers. What is your message for 2010? It all starts with who you are now. And just who is that?  Here are a few questions to ask your self.

• What would be your biggest accomplishment or dream come true?
• What advice would you give yourself if you were on the other side of the table?
• What is your plan to improve your financial forecast?
• What major experience is just waiting for you to indulge in?
• What would you most like to change about your self?
• What are you looking to learn?
• What will be your biggest risk moving forward, besides moving forward?
• What are you willing to change about your work?
• What is one undeveloped talent that you are willing to explore?
• What has brought you the most joy? How are you going to get more of that feeling?
• Who or what are you willing to love other than yourself?
• What one word best describes your theme?
• And lastly….do you have the courage to step outside of your box and create new, uncharted territory?

I realize that this article will mean different things to different people. However, the basic premise is universally the same for all. It hasn’t really changed but the recession has brought it home once again. Simply, the key to a successful business is to first of all be successful at your life, to give more and consume less. Recently I had the great pleasure of hearing a respected associate speak at a meeting. The line that stuck with me the most is that we want what we want, but it’s the feeling rather than the actual thing that we get from what we want that propels us to buy it. How do you make your clients or customers feel? As long as the feeling is a positive one, the money will follow.

About Jude L. Gorgopa

Jude L. Gorgopa is a licensed insurance agent, field manager, and award- winning trainer representing Atlantis Health Plan of New York for over four years. She is currently serving on the board of directors for the 23^rd Street Association and is also the president and founder of Clout Et Cetera, Inc., since 2001, including an online image and lifestyle resource, The Fundamentals of Clout. Clout is available for speaking engagements and acts as a business referral. www.cloutetcetera.com Questions? 917-833-5677 or jude@cloutetc.com.