Stuck in a rut? Try taking a new route

July 3rd, 2014

 

 Is a particular problem keeping you up at night? It may be time to try something new.

We've all been there before - endlessly hacking away at a problem using the same, stubborn approach, only to find that we haven't progressed a single step from square one.

Sure, each of us has systems and processes we're comfortable with and used to - and there's a reason we like sticking to them. However, when a sizeable challenge presents itself and the usual formula isn't working, it's time to try something new.

The fear of change can be one of the most damaging for small business owners, and it's important to stop yourself from slipping into a routine. So what are some steps you can take to seek a fresh new approach to your problem solving?

Tweak your KPIs

Do you find that you're never hitting your targets and you always seem to be falling well short of benchmarks? The problem may simply be that you're using the wrong measurement tools and methods.

Every business has their own KPIs and goals to work toward. If you feel you're getting nowhere with your current set, why not mix it up? For example, instead of focusing on pure sales and revenue as a measure of business growth, you could try directing your efforts toward customer acquisition and aim for expansion in this area.

Do a 180

If you're at the stage where small, incremental changes just aren't going to cut it, it could pay to do something a bit more radical - why not try going in a completely new direction to where you've been heading?

For instance, you may find that your paid online advertising strategies aren't leading to the sales you want. Taking a much more subtle online marketing approach, such as using content to make a soft sell, could end up providing a much more satisfying ROI.

Reassess your daily routine

Does every day feel like the same? If so, this monotony isn't going to help with your problem solving at all.

Try changing at least one thing about your daily routine - you could wake up earlier, for example, or change the order in which you tackle tasks throughout the day. This jolt to the system could provide the impetus needed to spark some fresh ideas.

Wishing you all the best for your week in business.