10 Tips for Successful Planning
1.
Planning is a process, not an annual event. Plan daily!
The beginning of a new year is a typical time for planning. The idea of a clean slate can be a good motivator to plan for the year ahead. That's great. However, what many people do not understand or practice is that they need to work with their plans --- everyday! It is not enough to just create a plan. You must integrate your plan into your daily schedule.
2.
Keep it simple! Focus on what really matters.
Most people tend to overcomplicate things. When you create your plan, you are basically outlining what is important to you and your business. A good plan is one that is clear and simple with measurable goals and deadlines. When you know what you should be focusing on, it is easier to make the right choices.
3.
The best time to plan your day is the night before.
One of the best ways to set yourself up for a successful day is to plan the night before. Create the habit of doing this before you allow yourself to leave your office at the end of each work day. When you start your day with a clear, written plan of action, you will be much more productive. When you do this everyday, you will start to see the difference it makes.
Planning is a learned habit that anyone can develop.
Some people think that you have to be naturally organized to be a "planner". The truth is that planning is more of a habit than a trait. Research has shown that habits can be developed, changed and dropped in as little as three weeks. So...lose the excuse of not being organized enough! (We will address the habit of making excuses later!)
4.
Your plan should be your own...not your broker's or your associates'.
There is nothing wrong with getting good ideas from others. The problem arises when you create your plan based on what other people think you should do. Well meaning people in your life may very well be directing you down the wrong path (for you). Be sure your plan reflects what YOU want.
5.
6.
Realize that a great business plan has numbers.
Successful businesses track numbers, and so should you! Run your real estate business like a true business.
Learn to understand and value your numbers, and you will be helping your business to grow. A tool like the
Interactive Business Plan provides business planning for Realtors and enables them to KNOW THEIR NUMBERS!
Schedule time each week and month to review your progress.
Tracking your progress consistently will provide you with motivation for reaching your goals. You will also see where you need to step up your game. Also, if you hit your aiming points for the week or month --- reward yourself!
7.
8.
Your plan should be in writing. Keeping it in your head is dangerous!
Write down your plan and, if possible, share it with someone who will keep you accountable to it. Your plan becomes more tangible and you are more likely to take action.
Do not change your annual goals; change your actions.
As the year progresses and you notice you are consistently not reaching your weekly or monthly aiming points, examine your actions. What are you doing or not doing that is keeping you from reaching them. Make adjustments to your actions to allow you to make more progress.
9.
10.
Honor your plan.
You must honor your plan and make it a priority. Take following it seriously. Let it lead you in the direction you want to go and create the business you desire.
© 2013 Interactive Business Plan