Hi there,

My friends with young children are attending “back to school nights” this week.

It got me remembering when I was a kid. Back to school meant new notebooks, pens and pencils, and new clothes. There were new kids in my class every year and I loved learning new things.

What does back to school mean to you? Do you get excited about the prospect of learning new things?

Recently, a therapist told me she wanted to learn more about how to write a great business plan. While my heart soars when I hear someone wanting to learn more about business, I am often concerned when I am asked this question.

That is because many of us will use the excuse “I have to learn something new before I start anything” as an opportunity to procrastinate. (Okay, maybe that is just me…)

So, to satisfy those of you who want to have a business plan, you can do it very simply.

Answer the questions below and you will have an abbreviated but well-conceived business plan.

1) Business Vision – How do you want to spend your time in your business? When do you want to work? How much do you want to earn? Whom do you wish to see as clients?

2) Mission – Why are you called to be doing the work you do? What is the mission of your business?

3) Ideal Client – Whom do you wish to serve?

4) Unique Selling Proposition – What makes you unique? How does your message/wisdom differ from others?

5) Objectives or Goals – What do you want to accomplish in your business?

6) Strategies to Achieve Your Goals – What marketing activities will you employ? (This would be your marketing plan.)

7) Plans – What will you do this month, this week, today to meet those objectives and goals? These are your “to-do’s” and should be designed with an eye toward your goals.
Accountability and Measurement – How will you stay motivated and on-track toward those goals. How will you know if you are fulfilling your mission?

This exercise can be a lot of fun. Take yourself to Starbucks, have a double-diet-no-soy latte and play with it! You might find yourself clearer on your business and feeling that old “back to school” excitement.

Hugs,
Casey