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A Plan for a New Year and New Economy

Words: Gary Micheloni
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Full Contact Project Management
If we've heard anything at all during the last political season, it has been the word "change." We've also heard a lot of talk about "hope." What does it all mean? Moreover, what does it mean to us?

Regarding the nation's economy and its outlook, I don't pretend to know what will happen. I will freely admit that everything I voted for or against did not turn out the way I wanted. I know that I'd like to have hope, and I will. But I'm a realist, and know my impact on the nation's economy and politics will be minimal, however unfortunate that might be. But as far as my business goes, I know I've got to do a lot more than just hope, and so do you, if you want to remain in your business.

I'm sure you've heard that one before. If you haven't, write it down, stare at it daily, and completely take it to heart. And, if you do know that saying, it's time for a reality check: Bad stuff is going to happen to a lot of people and businesses you know. And, Coach is telling you to get back onto the field, play your hearts out, and be prepared to leave everything on the field.

Look, there are lots of scared people out there. Things are in somewhat of an uproar. And, if all you do is the same old thing, the same old way, for the same old people, with the same old crew, you might end up as a casualty of the times.

Take a good, hard look at your business. What can you do to increase revenues? What can you do to decrease expenses? Look outside of the box, and outside of your own neighborhood. Maybe you should implement some of those ideas you've been considering for the last couple of years, but have been hesitant to try.

From here, I can't tell you what new sources of business make the most sense for you. But, I think you know. It's there in the back of your mind. I can tell you, without hesitation, that you can "stop the bleeding" that your project job costs are taking.
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