By nature, entrepreneurs are more action-oriented and idea-rich than others. For the most part, these are good traits. However, they often act as a catalyst for crossing the line and heading straight for lack of focus, prioritization and the ever-common doing-it, doing-it, doing-it rut.

Lets face it, most of us feel like we have way too many things to do every day a belief that is exacerbated by owning/operating a small business! Couple that with the pervading notions that If Im not working, Im not worthy and/or that rapid growth necessitates doing even more, youve got real problems. Why, I bet you even know of some people who think that if they just work harder and longer at anything, theyll eventually make it! This is hooey.

And please dont leap to another erroneous conclusion I am not advocating a get-rich-without-working scheme. Far from it There are few overnight successes If you think you know of one, do some research. In all likelihood, youll discover their instant victory came from taking advantage of an opportunity they were poised and ready to accept and this comes only after hard work, focus, planning and action.

In order to develop a sound strategy, which we all know is critical to the success of your business; you must learn whats important to do, and whats not. I love the analogy of a garden hose If you turn it on, full power water goes everywhere, and you wont even be able to get a small cup. However, if you turn it down to a trickle youll much more able to handle what you need.

Classic Symptoms of a Myth #4 Believer They

Like to tell you about the long hours they work

Are into all kinds of different businesses

Have a very long to-do list and no not-to-do list

Dont understand the 80/20 rule and waste time acquiring and retaining unprofitable customers

Copyright 2006 Mary Eule