Are you on cruise control with your business?

I spend a lot of time driving.

I stuff my face with Maltesers (the giant size pack) and listen to sporting trivia on Talk Sport. My only company in the car is the Sat Nav lady who  occasionally interjects with phrases like “You are no longer on the planned route. Do a ‘U’ turn when safe to do so”.

I sometimes ignore her instruction and take another handful of Maltesers.

I’m back on cruise control.

Only another 96 miles to go.

I’m not bothered about the journey, I just want to reach my destination.

Before I know it, the Malteser bag is empty. I cannot believe I’ve consumed so many in so short a space of time. I promised myself I would only eat half the bag and save the rest for my return journey but I have failed again (miserably).

But let’s forget driving for a moment – the above scenario can be a fair reflection of my life at times:

• Operating on cruise control
• Not appreciating the journey
• Ignoring advice
• Getting caught up in trivia
• Lacking self-discipline

I’m not trying to make myself (or you for that matter) feel guilty, I’m just pointing out the down sides of being “on cruise control”; in other words, coasting through life rather than taking a firm grip of the wheel.

So I’m re-committing myself to the following:

• I want to reach my destination and have appreciated the journey.
• I want to listen to and weigh up the advice of others.
• I want to focus on what’s important and not get side tracked by trivia.
• I want to really feel I’m driving my life and not simply coasting on cruise control.

What about you? Which of the above particularly strikes a chord? Is it time to switch off cruise control?

This is relevant to everyone, but I think it is particularly pertinent when you are self-employed or running a small business. Stay focused and make the most of every available minute.

And above all, remember to enjoy the Maltesers!

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