Running a business isn’t for the faint hearted. It’s a rollercoaster ride with moments of triumph, panic, and the occasional “Why did I sign up for this?” question. But at its core, your business should be more than just a job, it should be a vehicle for wealth, security, and impact.
Focusing on three critical areas namely: optimising your current investment, preparing for future retirement, and building a lasting legacy, can ensure your business thrives for years to come.
Let’s break these areas down with real business examples and a light-hearted approach to self-assessment.
OPTIMISING YOUR CURRENT INVESTMENT
Your business is your biggest asset. Is it working as hard as you are?
Service Business Example:
A cleaning company kept losing clients due to inconsistent quality. By implementing staff checklists and automating scheduling, they improved customer retention and cut costs. Small tweaks, big wins.
Construction Business Example:
A contractor drowning in delays and overruns adopted project management software. The result? Happier clients and healthier profits.
Ask Yourself
■ Are your processes smooth and efficient?
■ Are your customers so happy they stick around?
■ Can your business grow without burning cash?
Rate Yourself
☐ Poor: Chaos reigns, and profits are leaking
☐ Good: Basic systems are in place, but there’s room for improvement
☐ Great: You’re running like clockwork, with loyal customers
☐ Outstanding: Maximum efficiency, happy customers, scalable growth
PREPARING FOR FUTURE RETIREMENT
You didn’t start a business to work forever unless you’re allergic to holidays. Your business should secure your future, not tie you to your desk.
Trade Business Example:
A plumber reinvested profits while setting aside a healthy retirement fund, diversifying savings to reduce reliance on business income.
Consulting Business Example:
A corporate consulting firm developed a leadership pipeline by mentoring junior managers. This reduced dependency on the owner and prepared the business for a seamless handover.
Ask Yourself
■ Do you have a financial plan that includes savings and reinvestment?
■ Is your team ready to step into leadership roles?
■ Is there a clear exit strategy in place?
Rate Yourself
☐ Poor: Retirement? You’re not even thinking about it
☐ Good: You’re starting to plan but haven’t filled all the gaps
☐ Great: A solid plan is in place, with capable team members stepping up
☐ Outstanding: Financial security and a seamless transition strategy are ready to go
BUILDING A LASTING LEGACY
Your business should leave more than just a profit margin. It should leave a footprint.
Service Business Example:
A landscaping company built an excellent reputation by offering eco-friendly solutions and partnering
with charities, becoming a trusted name for sustainability.
Construction Business Example:
A builder embraced green technologies, earning loyalty and standing out in a crowded market.
Ask Yourself
■ Is your brand trusted for quality and integrity?
■ Are you positively impacting your community or industry?
■ Are you keeping up with market trends and customer needs?
Rate Yourself
☐ Poor: You’re just surviving, with no long-term impact
☐ Good: Your brand is trusted, but you’re not giving back much
☐ Great: Your business is respected and contributes positively
☐ Outstanding: You’re a trusted, innovative leader leaving a lasting footprint
REFLECTION TIME. WHERE DO YOU STAND?
Add up your ratings
☐ Poor: Major overhauls needed time to act fast
☐ Good: You’re on solid ground, but there’s work to do
☐ Great: Strong progress, with refinements to perfect
☐ Outstanding: You’ve nailed it. Your business is thriving
TAKE ACTION NOW
Building a business that lasts doesn’t happen by chance, it takes strategy and effort. By optimising your operations, planning for retirement, and creating a legacy, you can ensure your business delivers on its full potential.
Ready to level up? Book a complimentary one on one discovery session today. Together, we’ll create a roadmap to help you unlock your business’s full potential.
Your business has the power to be more than just a job. It can be your greatest asset and legacy. Let’s make this happen together! Don’t know what your next step should be! Contact me on the link below for a call.
Scan the QR code below to Get in Touch - Marlene Powell (marlenepowell.actioncoach.com).
Contact Marlene on https://linkshare.co.za/marlenepowell or call +27 (0)83 479 4471
Comments