Every business or organization, while unique in many facets, follows a very similar structure of development to become successful. Why is this important to know? Because when you become familiar with that framework, you will know what to expect and, more importantly, how to respond appropriately each step of the way. So in today’s article, we’re exploring the 10 steps in the evolution of a successful enterprise. Keep reading to learn more!
1. Creative Connection (Inspiration)
The first step to any successful business or organization is creative connection. Now, what does that mean? It means we get inspired. Every great enterprise first began in the form of an inspiration in someone’s mind and heart. It begins with someone who truly wants to make a positive difference. And then, that person sets out to make it happen. However, that then leads to the inevitable second step of the process, which is…
2. Crisis (Adversity)
I think many people have this romantic idea that if something is meant to be, the stars will magically align for them. But the truth is adversity is par for the course. And it’s not to sway you from your chosen or predetermined path. Instead, adversity is there to develop you. Crisis actually makes you better; crisis is an opportunity to refine your business model. But it’s at this point where the next step takes place…
3. Confusion (Scattered Focus)
What happens to a lot of people when starting out in business (including me) is that the strong desire to create something great is met with a crisis. It could be an illness, financial problems, health and family issues, etc. Some type of crisis comes up, leaving everything in disarray. And Boom; I’m confused. It’s right here that there is a leverage point because now I have capacity that is unorganized.
I want you to imagine your talent and potential. When it’s not being used, it doesn’t benefit anybody. And all of this happens because that creative connection causes us to move into a crisis. It’s the strangest thing! If you decide to just sit and watch Netflix all day; you’re good.
But the moment you decide to get out there and make a difference, all of a sudden, the crisis begins to emerge.
4. Capacity (That Is Unorganized)
When you’re confused, it leads to scattered strength, capacity, and potential. The result? You dilute your focus which, in turn, compromises your ability to be effective in your business. You can have all the vigour, determination, and heart-felt spirit in the world; however, if it’s not probably channelled and harnessed, then it will go to waste.
5. Coaching
Coaching is among the most powerful things you can do for your enterprise. A good business coach is invaluable. Why? Because they can teach you the processes and stages in the development of an organization and, as a result, shortcut your learning curve. A coach is a critical component for your company to reach the next level. Here are some additional advantages of business coaching:
- Greater profitability
- Enhanced productivity
- More efficient processes
- Achieve your business ambitions faster
- Assistance with actualizing your vision
6. Clarity
When your “why” is clear and powerful, then the “how” and “what” will flow easier and more naturally. Clarity is your superpower. It illuminates the way in regard to what your next step(s) should be. There is no confusion when you have clarity. Instead, confusion is replaced with certainty, definiteness of purpose, and a clear pathway ahead.
Here are some other advantages to having clarity in business:
- Adds structure to your business operations
- Hones your focus on your most pressing priorities
- Streamlines tasks and processes
- Helps to appropriately allocate roles and responsibilities for business success
As a result, you will experience that crucial and cardinal characteristic we call: Focus. Clarity creates focus, which then leads to…
7. Capacity That Is Organized
Organization is a fundamental attribute of success in any undertaking. Disorganization, of any kind, fosters a confused mind and, as a result, weak resolve and poor follow-through. Organized capacity, on the other hand, spearheads decisiveness. And this then leads to …
8. Confidence And Competence
When you become clear, you develop structure which, in turn, leads to organization. And the result of this? You feel a sense of competence; the reason being is that you have developed true confidence through the organizational process. But here’s the deal: You can’t wait to feel confident or competent before you act. These two traits come down the road; you will build them authentically—not by looking in the mirror and pumping yourself up, but by doing the work!
And the best part? Once you do the work and develop confidence and competence as a result, these two qualities become a part of you. No one can take them away.
9. Community
The most successful businesses build community; they have a tribe of loyal followers that believe in and support the mission. As a result, this sense of community becomes the backbone of the enterprise. Let’s face it, a business is not a business without the people it serves. However, when you take it a step further, your budding business becomes so much more.
It goes from a faceless enterprise to a part of your customer’s life. Your brand values become one with the values of your customers; in other words, a connection is created when you have community. And community is what separates the faceless corporation from the heart-centred business.
10. Celebration
When you have a great product and stellar customer service, your business grows in influence. The result? You get to enjoy the fruits of your labour with business success and celebration. This is the final of the 10 steps that enable you to relish in the rewards that have resulted from your efforts.
Final Thoughts
Every business or organization—from large corporations to nonprofits—goes through some variation of these steps. It’s the natural development of a successful enterprise. For this reason, it’s essential to ensure you’re making the right moves to meet these stages of business growth. And now here comes the good part: We at Certified Flourishing Coach are here to help if you need assistance.
Our team of coaching and business experts boast decades of experience. And with a proven track record of business success, we can help you reach your professional goals and ambitions. So if you’re ready, contact us today to learn more!
About the Author
Abe Brown, MBA, CMCT, CPHSA is the Coach’s Coach, and is an Entrepreneur, Professional Speaker, International Best-Selling Author, and High-Performance Leadership Coach. He is the founder of Certified Flourishing Coaching™, the Flourishing Life Coaching Program™, and Flourishing Workplace. Abe is also the author of the Certified Flourishing Coaching™ Programs.