As we move rapidly towards the end of the year, I am sure 99% of you are saying no to this question. Whether you are having the best or worst year ever, company expectations and requirements are highly likely to require a Sales growth next year.

It is very easy to panic at this thought, knowing you gave it everything this year, don’t freeze! Einstein said the definition of madness is to keep doing the same thing and getting the same results.

So how do I move forward? Before you even think about next year, you need to find some quiet time and space to reflect on the year that has been. I highly recommend a walk in the Countryside for a couple of hours, either alone or with your team, wherever you feel most relaxed. Ideally take only a note pad and a pencil with you. Where possible leave you phone and other technology behind, go analogue!

During your reflective time, give thought and jot down key points against each of the points below.

• What were our greatest successes this year?
• What were our challenges this year? Be as honest as you can.
• What do we need to keep doing next year? Because it is working well and getting us results!
• What do we need to stop doing next year? It just isn’t working for us
• What do we need to start doing next year? In order to move us forward.
• And my favorite a stretch on above. If anything was possible next year what would you do.

On the last point, I encourage you to be as creative as possible. You may find that upon exploring ideas with your colleagues there is resource and justification to implement one or two of your creative ideas next year.

I will be in touch again soon to explore how to move forward with your brainstorming in my next blog Sales by Design.

If you would like to learn more about Finding your Edge please contact SalesAde