“Strive not to be a man of success, but rather to be a man of value.”

I think Einstein had it right!  It’s a tricky thing to be focused on “SUCCESS.”  And ironically, for so many, it detracts from doing what’s really needed to achieve it!

The problem I think is that “success” and the images often associated with it, are deceiving and illusive.  I even think they can be like “vines of illusion” that can strangle us, keeping us from our growth.

Focus on VALUE from multiple perspectives… and SUCCESS will follow.

(That is, the kind that brings a fulfilling, enriched, healthy/wealthy life!)  As they say, “if you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.” Building a stronger foundation that is “built to last,” requires proper design and motivation.  Value/values are a critical ingredient in your “blueprint for success.”

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The following are 7 guiding questions to apply VALUE/VALUES for greater business success:

1. Do your customers value your product/service? Are you serving your customers well with added or unique value?  Are you teaching, educating, connecting and responding to needs? Have you made a commitment to “continual value-improvement” for today’s dynamic world?  Are you meeting needs that aren’t currently being met by others?

2. What are your customers’ values within their lives? Remember, you can align and become involved in many common, supportive associations or causes that your customers care about. (Do research, surveys, build relationships).

3. Are you communicating a unique “Value Proposition” to differentiate yourself in the marketplace?  What makes you stand out?

4. What are the “Guiding Values” of your business. What vision or goals do you have for your business?  What is your value, your philosophy, your approach?  Write a company value statement or statements and abide by them.

5. What are your personal values and interests? How do they correlate with your business, your role, and your activities?  Remember, passion helps to fuel your business for success.

6. Are you perceiving and identifying the values of those around you, including: team members, venders, sub-contractors, associates, etc.?  Teamwork works better when values are aligned and supported.

7.  DO NOT under-value your worth. Be “valiant.” Communicate your value in all you do, throughout your client relationship —all the way to your billing statements and beyond!

Use VALUE(S) as Your Springboard & Your North Star! –Which also means:  COMMUNICATE AND ENACT YOUR VALUE(S).

I often meet clients who put limitations on themselves and their success with preconceived notions. Marketing activities (off and on-line) that expand upon VALUE/VALUES have the best success rates.  –And you don’t need to have a large budget! Strategy and new communication tools can go a loooooong way!  Remember, you are in business to serve people --It’s all about P2P (People to People).