by Cynthia Hovda, @CyImagesforLife
I learned two great concepts in driver’s education that apply more than to just driving. Here are a few steps to get you going in the right direction in business and in life.
Concept 1. Look where you want to go
When driving it's important to look in the direction where you are going. In Driver’s Ed I learned that if my car breaks down on the highway I should stand far behind it as I wait for help because people aim in the direction they are looking. Those who are looking at the car on the side of the road are likely to drive right into the car and if you are standing in front of it you will get hurt.
One life application this week involved my exercise class. The instructor told us to look at a fixed point to help with our balance but mentioned that it was important to look at a fixed point at eye level. If we looked at a fixed point on the floor we would tip forward and lose our balance. In business, looking where you want to go looks like a business plan, a marketing plan, and a strategic plan so you know where you are going and don’t lose your balance.
Concept 2. Make Minor Corrections
As I was learning to drive my instructor told me not to make big turns of the wheel. He kept repeating over and over “minor corrections, minor corrections”. The idea is turn the wheel just slightly to keep your vehicle on course as you move forward to avoid getting too far off track.
I like the idea that when moving forward in life we don’t always have to make huge changes along the way. Sometimes we just need a minor correction. Some minor corrections I have made this week include drinking more water, listening to better music, and thinking positive thoughts. This is not the first time I have made these decisions. I decided long ago to be healthy and stay healthy but like driving my car I must constantly adjust for the changing road conditions.
The same is true in business. I am a photographer and there are many ways to structure a photography business. I decided to adopt a “boutique model” before I even sold my first photograph. (Note: a boutique business model is similar to a shopping boutique without the retail location: think high-end product matched by outstanding customer service.) I researched and educated myself about the model and as I began my business I followed the plan. This week as I was thinking about the economy (changing road conditions) and my business I contemplated a big change in a key element of my business. Thankfully, I was reminded of what I wanted my business to look like and where I wanted it to go and I made a small adjustment instead. I realized that I already have a business model and a plan and that there is no need to scrap the whole thing and start over.
As you drive through life and drive for a successful business remember to look where you are going and make minor corrections along the way!
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Cynthia Hovda is a natural light portrait and fine art photographer. She is a member of the Greater Washington Professional Photographers Society. Currently Cynthia has several images on display at the Dulles International Airport's gateway exhibit titled "Washington DC: More than Monuments". Cynthia has an economics degree with a background in art. She is a mother of four children.
Website: www.cynthiahovda.com | Twitter: @CyImagesforLife
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COMMENT & WIN!
Cynthia is giving away a 30-minute portrait session to a lucky commenter. Comment about the minor corrections you've made or want to make & you'll be entered to win. Tweet about it with #trickstreats & you'll be entered again! Winner chosen on Friday, October 21, 2011 at noon!
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