Ahhh… I love a shiny new magic bullet. Who doesn’t?
There’s nothing more exciting, for any entrepreneur, than finding that perfect new something that’ll do that thing that you need to do even better and faster than that last something you found to do that thing that you needed to do.
As an entrepreneur, we are drawn to finding new business tools (or should I say magic bullets) even more than a bored handyman in front of a Home Depot. We can’t help it. There’s always some shiny new renegade-cutting-edge-magic bullet software and system, that will completely change our business, maximize our profits, and make our business run by itself. This is the point where you nod your head because you know I’m right.
I’m A Hypocrite
Here’s the thing. I get new tools for my businesses all the time. Some I paid for and some are free (most are free). In fact, just two days ago I stumbled across another beautifully shiny magic bullet that has completely changed my marketing strategy and made me thousands of dollars - at least it will whenever I have the time to learn how to use it properly, I think. PS> That’s an affiliate link. Hey, it’s going to make some cash some way.
That’s just the latest one. I could literally find a new business tool, entrepreneurial strategy, or game changing magic bullet idea every day if I wanted to, and 50% of them would probably benefit me in some way or another. The problem is – I’m not ready for them NOW.
Focus Focus Focus
When you were standing across from your beautiful bride and exchanging your vows, did you suddenly have an epiphany on how to cut the cake in manner that would save time and allow for maximum cake distribution? NO! Of course not. So why would you drop everything thats important to running your business to try something that you “think” might work?
I’m not saying that shiny new tools are bad. They’ve grown my businesses and freed up loads of time for me. However, I can honestly say that they’ve slowed me down and hurt my businesses more times than they’ve helped.
Why? Because I wasn’t ready for them. It’s that simple.
You know what needs to be done now in your business. Focus on that, get it done without distractions, and then if you can actually devote the time needed to do it right, embrace your new “whatever” and grow your success.
PS> If you’re still looking for that magic bullet that’s going to rock your world and beam you to the land of palm trees and briefcases filled with cash, CLICK HERE to get it.
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Ah yes I see this downfall all the time and definitely experience it myself!
It also can be difficult as someone who provides “magic bullet” type training. I really try to emphasize the larger marketing strategy in everything that I do. Although I might be teaching about twitter, I try to explain the concepts behind it so that people can use the strategy across their marketing, not just on twitter.
As far as what to spend money on, I advise people to spend money on solutions that they are actively having a problem with. So if you’ve researched twitter, or adwords, or direct mail and think they would be a good fit within your larger marketing plan THEN invest in training on how to use them.
.-= Laura Roeder´s last blog ..Marketing for Shy People: How Social Media Can Help =-.