A note from Dorothy...

Report Card Time! How are you tracking...

Quote of the Week...

Tip of the Week...

Book of the Week...

About Dorothy...

Hi {!firstname},

The days are getting longer and many of us are feeling optimistic that spring might be just around the corner. In most of North America it has been a winter of record breaking cold temps and in many locations a ton of snow, so an early spring would be more than welcome! I am optimistic that enough snow has fallen to ensure that all the skiers, boarders and snow bunnies will get to enjoy some sunny weekends at the base lodge or on the slopes in March. I sure hope to!

The longer days and a bit more sunshine also remind us that 2011 is well under way. It is important to know how we are tracking against our plan. And there is no better time than now for taking inventory. Do you know your numbers? How are you tracking against plan and compared to last year? Are you making time for working on your business not just in your business? Are you feeling good about your life/work balance? Are you feeling good about your relationships? Now is the time to take stock and make sure 2011 is your most successful year yet!

As I said last month - just imagine how great you will feel if by the end of the first quarter you are tracking ahead of plan, in all aspects of your life. It may take a 30 DAY BOLD GOAL but it is all still possible!

Best Always,
Dorothy

Are you still in school, full or part-time, or are the days of those scholastic report cards a fond or scary memory? In every phase of life there are report cards. They just take different forms as we move through each chapter. They may be about learning new skills, starting a new job, learning a new role as a mother, father or mentor, improving our health and fitness, or fostering our relationships - to name just a few. In all aspects of life and in every chapter, our report card or measure of how we are doing is a big part of who we are and what makes our life fulfilling.

So what does your report card for the first sixth of 2011 look like? Are you achieving A's and B's or is it time to kick into high gear to make the grade?

If there is a need to improve your marks the following Five Steps will get you moving in the right direction quickly:

Step #1

Start by asking the why, what, who, when, where and how questions. Take a moment to reflect on the people, the processes and the plan you have for this year. By evaluating available information, you will fully understand the state of affairs and the strategy needed, to make the changes necessary, to ensure you achieve your plan!

Step #2

After this evaluation, make a list of every opportunity and every challenge for getting things on track. Also note all the people who can make a difference. Engage with them. Paint the vision of the future together and then brainstorm all of the possible tactics that will make a difference. Get consensus on the priorities and work with it until everyone is on board. Whether you are a solopreneur relying on outside contractors, the owner of a larger entrepreneurial business, a manager in a corporation, or part of a family unit it is essential that everyone is consulted and on board.

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"Should you find yourself in a chronically leaking boat, energy devoted to changing vessels is likely more productive than energy devoted to patching leaks."

~Warren Buffet

Little Bee
Author Chris Cleaver

A real page turner, "Little Bee" was short listed for the 2008 Costa Award for Best Novel and is also in development as a feature film. Enjoy!

About Dorothy...

Dorothy DeClute specializes in coaching business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs and individuals in career or life transitions. Her business background is extensive and includes her tenure as Vice President of Sandbury Homes, President of Wiltshire Canada, Director of International Marketing for McPherson's Ltd. and Co-Founder of Team DeClute, one of the most successful real estate teams in Canada.

Dorothy is a Certified General Accountant, a Registered Real Estate Sales Professional and a member of the GTA/ICF Coaches Association. If you are facing challenges and would like to work with a coach who has a defined Signature System to help you get from where you are to where you want to be contact Dorothy at dorothy@coachdeclute.com.

The Stepping Stones you need, to achieve the success you deserve.