Creating My Business Culture
Recently I was asked how I create and maintain my own unique culture for Explore Fitness and Adventures.
For me it all boils down to focus and how I spend my personal and professional time. I used to think I needed to say yes to everything. Social gatherings, networking, collaborations, webinars, charitable work, or pleas for help.
I thought turning anyone down would be a missed opportunity. I was constantly busy and constantly unhappy. I never felt fulfilled or that I was being true to myself. These days I am very particular about who I interact with, the projects I invest my time in, who I help, and the energy I give to others.
Before I decide to do anything, whether it's for work or leisure or charity, I ask myself the following questions:
Does this…...
Line up with my values?
Fulfill my mission in life or business?
Help me reach my personal or business goals?
Make me happy?
Add to my mental, physical, or spiritual health?
Make the world or my community better?
Make me a better person?
Create a more inclusive and accepting environment?
Enrich my life?
Feel good or right?
If the answer is no to any of the above questions, I don't do it! I politely turn down the request, opportunity, or invitation and move on with my life!
Occasionally, I talk myself into something with the thought of learning a life lesson or getting out of my comfort zone. Maybe I'm not fully informed or I am judging something prematurely. This almost always ends up badly. I am either unhappy with what I am doing or with the people I am doing it with.
However, I quickly remedy the situation and get out of whatever it is. I go back to my core values and mission and remember to follow my path. I immediately feel better and more aligned. It sounds so simple, but this has taken me at least three decades to figure out! Some people find it very hard to say no or “let other’s down”. Just remember, at the end of the day, you only have yourself to answer to.