We know necessity is the mother of invention, but every invention does not become a successful business. Unless you know how your invention fits into the marketplace there is a chance that it will not provide for the need it is intended.
I began my consulting business thinking I could do everything. I believed this was the way to become profitable. I was wrong. In fact, I originally named my business The Ananias Group after a biblical character who helped the Apostle Paul discover his true purpose. I had the right idea, but the wrong layout. Once I focused on what I do best, my busines began to prosper and 21 years later I am still in the fight.
The most important lesson I learned was to discover the purpose for my business. What role did I play? What need am I truly meeting? Is there a void in the marketplace I need to fill? Once I answered these questions honestly my vision became clear. I stay in my lane and confident in my strengths. I do not try to do what others do, even if I believe I can. I know my purpose and the purpose of my enterprise.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, "To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven." This means that everything built, created, or established has a specific time and purpose for its existence. Business leaders maximize their time and lengthen the lifespan of their businesses by determining the reason for their business and what it is meant to accomplish in the world.
If your only reason for being in business is to make money you won't last very long. There is plenty of money in the world. There are not many businesses with a purpose that matters. Social entrepreneurship is the hot topic around the globe as new ventures are being created to bring a difference to the world. I recently shopped at my favorite mall and noticed a new coffee shop. It takes a portion of its profits and donates them to the arts...a purpose that matters.
If your business is going to thrive and survive, find a unique purpose worth supporting and make that part of your foundation. Your business will become sustainable and you will make a lasting impression in the marketplace and community.
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