In my former life as a boat captain I learned a valuable lesson about the importance of have a clear picture of knowing where I’m going. The art of navigation is one that many timesis not part of business and sales management. This is especially true for the entrepreneur and small business owner and manager. Many entrepreneurs and small business owners remain so focused on the production of their specific product or service they forget the importance of the navigating the other business challenges.

As a boat captain I was taught to always have a clear understanding of how to proceed to my destination. If I was unsure of my heading, I needed to STOP and re-calculate my heading and then proceed in the correct direction. To not stop and confirm my heading only proved to send me further off course and risk my crew and vessel, not to mention my own life. The fact is, the few minutes invested to confirm or adjust my heading always saved the time spent being lost or having to return to the correct course.

The same is true for today’s business owners and managers.  Many times they also need to STOP and re-calculate their course, then head in a more effective and profitable direction. Continuing down the same path of ineffective sales and profits without taking the time to check your heading will also jeopardize the life of your business. Taking the time to evaluate your business and reset your strategies can be difference between success and ultimate failure. So, check your business compass today. It’s a great investment of time and money.