Tunnel Vision

Recently my oldest son Carter slammed his younger brother’s fingers in the front door. I was upset to say the least and even more upset because this was not the first time he had done this. After sending Carter to his room while I bandaged Blaine’s fingers, I went to discuss with him why I had gotten angry. I asked him if he checked the door to see if Blaine’s fingers were there before shutting it. He quietly said,” No I didn’t think to look.  I was paying attention to something else. And before you say it Mom, I know I need to be more aware of what is going on around me.” Can you tell he has heard me say that more than once?

When I went back downstairs I began to think about how often I have tunnel vision like Carter did and I do not pay attention to everything happening around me. I have an egocentric focus instead of extending my gaze to the big picture surrounding me. For instance, if I am constantly asking a colleague for advice concerning my business but I fail to respond to her questions then I am experiencing tunnel vision and not paying attention to another’s needs.

How can you  make sure tunnel vision does not become an everyday practice in your life and in your business?

1)      Be an active listener when you are working with clients and colleagues. If this means having a pad of paper beside you at all times to write down important notes while listening, then make it happen. If there is a request you do not completely understand, be sure to ask for clarification so you can accomplish the task correctly.

2)      Stop and take a moment to compose an email or write a handwritten note to your colleague and clients to let them know you are thinking of them. When you take the time to do this you are showing others you care and that you are thinking not only of yourself but of them and their business as well.

3)      Be self-aware. Know how your actions and your words touch those around you. Before you send that email, re-read it. While planning your day, look at the deadlines given to you by clients and schedule appropriately.

It is so easy to develop tunnel vision while you are building your business.  It is easy to fall into the trap of looking out for number one, yourself. Always remember that while you are the one running your business the ones who support it, your colleagues and clients, are the ones helping you build it through support, income and recommendations. Do not slam their fingers in the door. Pay attention to the world around you and you will see a definite return on your investment.

 

Alison Gillaspie is a marketing expert who has a deep passion for seeing small businesses and non-profits thrive through correct marketing practices. She loves seeing businesses work through a branding process and embrace their a-ha moment in marketing that is going to make their business succeed. Her marketing technique is very sensitive to the workings of God and the Holy Spirit within each business.

Alison lives in Lexington, KY with her husband and two boys. She loves working with her clients and is ready to work with you today. Check out her website www.DeepRootedMarketing.com for more details of her marketing services that will make your business succeed!