Secrets to Success Deborah Cole Micek and John-Paul Micek

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Turning problems into profits

AT one time or another, we have all gotten into a rut in our businesses -- you know the feeling -- when all you can think about are your problems.

When that happens, it can cause you to feel out of control, unfocused, and totally unmotivated. Any of these feelings can affect your performance, personal fulfillment, and your profits. Put them together, and you're a disaster waiting to happen.

If this happens to you, with the right psychology, you can quickly overcome the challenges. This is how successful entrepreneurs turn problems into profit centers.

HERE'S a simple, five-minute process that we share with our business-coaching clients that will put you back in control of your focus, and give you a boost in your performance and profits.

Ask yourself the following five questions.

» What's great about this challenge?

Once you begin to use this process, your brain may answer, "What, are you, nuts? What's great? NOTHING!" If this happens, understand that you are at a critical point in the process. It's where all growth starts. So you must stick with the process and answer the question. Otherwise, you'll create a pattern of always feeling "stuck."

» What's not perfect yet?

Identify what needs to be changed with a proactive/positive mindset. Program your brain to focus on solutions to the challenge, instead of the challenge itself.

» What steps am I willing to take to make it right?

Lay out the plan you need to turn your current challenge into an advantage. If you don't follow through on this step, don't expect your challenge to disappear on its own. Specific action is required from you.

» What are the red flags that can help me prevent a similar situation in the future?

Being aware of warning markers will keep you from taking actions you DO NOT want to do, and will actually prevent problems from creeping up in the future. Answers to this question tell your subconscious specifically what TO DO instead.

» How can I take the steps I need to make this fun?

Discover how you can have fun while taking action to get what you really want. Take time to come up with fun ways to take action. Make it a game. Link positive actions to rewards you'll give yourself.

Let your competitors think like the herd as they keep their heads buried in problems. With this simple series of questions at the ready every time there is a problem, you now have an advantage that will have you transforming challenges into opportunities. Your business will grow by leaps and bounds as a result.