2008 is coming to a close. This year seems to have gone by in a flash. They say time moves faster as you get older, but I think it also happens when you have a lot going on. And that certainly describes this year for me.

I was flattered that so many of you noticed, missed and contacted me about not receiving a November edition last month.

And I was quite frustrated about not being able to get one out.

This year started with technology problems for me when my computer crashed in early January. It seems to be ending the same way; my computer again became non-functional about two months ago. (Different machine, different problem.)

Because of this, I missed out on getting a big client a couple of weeks ago. And the printer can't deliver the Christmas cards I special ordered until the week after Christmas.

You might think I'd be at wit's end and ready to give up. Not so.

It's been a good year professionally and personally. I've overcome new challenges in both arenas and learned valuable lessons.

I've learned more and better ways of helping clients, my business has grown, and I thank all of my clients for the opportunity for us to grow together.

Personally, I've made new friends who have enriched my life in ways even I don't have words to adequately describe.

All in all, I've been blessed with a very good year, and I hope you have been too!

Until next time,
Vanessa

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December, 2008    

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

This is the time of year when we celebrate the season with family and friends. And with the approaching new year, it's also the time when we evaluate the past and plan for the future.

Have you decided where you want your business to go in 2009? Have you made a plan and figured out how you'll get there?

First, you need to understand where you are. What do you see when you look back at this year? What worked and what didn't turn out so well?

Look back, then forward at four main areas: marketing, growth, finances and operations.

Marketing - Keeping current customers satisfied and finding new ones. Do you really know your target market and can you identify your ideal customer? How did you do this year? Do you have a plan in place for 2009?

I'm finishing up a month-by-month plan for the year; different themes all designed around a central goal.

Growth - Deciding how big you want your business to be. Do you want to maintain your present level or are you looking for growth. Do you have a plan to create and manage that growth?

This year I will expand by adding several products and services to my business. I plan to keep it small and simple, but the security factor in "multiple income streams" is definitely appealing.

Finances - Planning for and keeping control of the flow of your money. Do you schedule invoices to keep up with pay outs? Do you give and use credit wisely? Have you made a plan to keep your taxes up-to-date?

I've recently put new systems into place to improve each of these areas.

Operations - Managing and organizing the day-to-day tasks of running your business. Do you get bogged down with the details? Do you often skip or forget important functions?

Although I'm great at setting up systems for my clients, organization tends to be a challenge for me. So, I've been getting some help in that area.

Of course we've only skimmed the surface here. This type of evaluating and goal setting is personal and unique to each business, and business owner. Hopefully, it gives you something to think about.

This column focuses on easily confused words and common language mistakes.

Peace is a state of mental and emotional calm.
Piece is a part or section or a larger thing.

The holidays are a season of peace and happiness.
I shouldn't eat another piece of sweet potato pie.

Your turn readers. What word foul-up drives you to distraction?