Some business owners are getting busy being busy, some are busy making money and some are out to make an impact. Making an impact can be easier than making money, but also a lot more challenging. The question is, which one is right for you?
What will your legacy be on the world? If you’re getting busy being busy, chances are your answer could be, not much. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and forget about your goals and what you’re working towards. This is where you need to take a pause or time out to go back to the beginning and make sure you are focused on your business plan. Go back to the start and get clear on your purpose, your why, for more read or watch a Simon Sinek TED talk.
On the other hand, making money can be your sole focus. You can be very profitable and not make an impact on the great world to leave your mark. Lets face it, money is a great motivator, it’s a great way to keep score and it’s a great way to live a comfortable life. It can also be a legacy left for family and allow them to live a comfortable life. The big question is, is that all you want out of life, out of work and will your legacy be one of wealth for your family? Will this be at the sacrifice of time and moments with family and friends?
To make a lasting impact!
The question you have to ask yourself is, what is your purpose or why in business? If you want to make an impact, you have to be clear on your why. Your why is your purpose, cause, or belief. It’s the reason you get up every morning. This is one of the reasons we started Seamlss. It’s to build a product that is best in class that people want to allow firms to easily, securely and quickly onboard new clients.
It’s not easy making an impact. It’s a lot easier to get busy being busy or making money. Making an impact takes a clear vision, it takes a clear understanding of your why and it takes a lot of hard work. But, the rewards can be so much greater than just money alone.
So what next?
The question then becomes, are you in business to make an impact or to make money? Ideally, you want to do both, but there will be times when you have to choose one or the other. If you’re solely focused on making money, you may find that your business doesn’t have the longevity that you want.
You may also find that you’re not making the impact that you want to make. This could create an environment of feeling unfulfilled in business, work or life. Before you can decide if you want to make an impact or just make money, you need to get clear on your why. Why are you in business? What’s your purpose? What’s your mission?
What is the point of making an impact or reaching for your vision?
To leave a lasting legacy. A legacy that will live on long after you’re gone. A legacy that will continue to make an impact even when you’re no longer around. Your why is what will drive your business and determine your legacy.
The answer to leaving a lasting legacy is to serve others. Impact and vision come from a place of service. It’s not about you, it’s about others and how you made them feel. When you’re clear on your why you’ll be able to better serve others. Impact and vision are something that can be taught or worked on, and sets the standard for you and your team. Is this the example you would set for your kids or employees and how does it sit with you? Does it make you feel like saying yes I’m walking the talk and would be happy for them to follow? Do you shudder and think, no I wouldn’t let them do it this way and if so why then.
How does Seamlss help in this?
It’s in the terms and conditions of your engagement letter, how you engage your clients and step off on the right foot first. Are you a digital leader or a laggard? Are you showing them that you are the expert and doing things that save you time, allow you to better operate and have better outcomes that impact them?
You have to be clear on your why and lead by example. Be the best of the 5 people you surround yourself with. If they’re already making an impact, pat them on the back and congratulate them for being awesome. If you want your business to have a lasting impact, remember it all starts with you.