What makes a business successful?
Recently, my in-laws, husband, and I spent a wonderful week in Yosemite National Park. While there, we were enthralled by the Mountain Climbers who were climbing El Capitan a formidable granite mountain standing 7573 feet tall.
Every day, we would pull over, get out our binoculars, and watch these brave individuals scale El Capitan. We were mesmerized by their grit, resiliency, courage, and, yes, even a bit of craziness. Of course, standing there we would have long conversations about the extreme sport, what drives someone to do this, and inevitably ask ourselves, “Would you do it?”
Hell to the No.
But it did make me think about the preparation involved and how can a business be successful.
Just like climbing El Capitan, running a small business requires careful preparation, planning, and adaptability. Here are a few lessons we can take from these mountain climbers:
1. Assess Where You Are
Before attempting to climb a mountain, climbers need the right gear, training, and an accountability partner. Similarly, in your business, take the time to evaluate its current state. Examine key pillars that support your business—Revenue, Customers, Sales, Marketing, Network, Team, Operations, and Profit. This self-assessment is your base camp
2. Define Your Summit
For climbers, the goal is clear: reach the summit and return safely. For business owners, the goals can vary. Where do you want to be in a year? In three years? How many hours do you want to work? How large do you want your team to be? Visualizing your business goals helps map out the climb ahead.
3. Develop a Route Plan
Climbers don’t just show up and start ascending; they meticulously plan their route, prepare their gear, and choose the right time of year. Similarly, in business, you need a strategic plan. Being reactive won’t get you to your goals. For those who fear that planning stifles creativity, remember: a solid plan actually frees you to be more creative, as it provides a clear path forward.
4. Adapt and Adjust
Even the best-laid plans can go awry. Climbers must be ready to adapt to changing conditions, whether it’s the weather or unexpected obstacles. In business, adaptability is key. Life will throw unexpected challenges your way—like one of my client’s is dealing with a sudden death and identity theft all in the same season. A growth plan helps you pivot and adjust without losing your footing, allowing for quicker recovery.
What makes a successful business? Lastly, TRUST. These climbers have to trust the mountain, their gear, themselves, and their climbing partners. You have to trust in the plan, your strategy, yourself, and your business.
Just like those climbers on El Capitan, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. If you need help developing your growth plan, assessing your key pillars and the current state of your business, and ensuring you don’t fall off the cliff.
Want to learn more about business owners success. Listen to the Main Street Success Stories Podcast
