Resolve to Shape the Narrative this Year
A new year! The land of possibility, resolutions, and beginnings. However, sometimes the new year can bring unrealistic expectations and unnecessary pressure. For example, can a brand-new company generate $3M in sales over the year, or is it a resolution to get ten new investors if that’s something out of your control?
An INC article explained this conflict: "the problem with most resolutions is that they jump to the end of the story rather than trying to shape the narrative." Instead, the article recommends "focused on embracing the activities that bring you closer to the goal."
In the spirit of focusing on the rungs rather than the top of the ladder, we asked founders to identify one thing they wanted to concentrate on this year.
Here are some of the responses:
Dianna King, Eat UNrestricted
"This year, I want to build brand awareness for Eat UNrestricted and focus on strategic relationships that will help our business grow."
Jennifer Morales, Mixicles
"In 2023, we will shift our focus from a frozen product to a shelf-stable one. Pivoting to a freeze-at-home product will allow for a lower price point and reduce costs, while also providing greater merchandising opportunities."
Bupe Mulenga, Stephens Southern Delights
"My focus for Stephens Southern Delight is to grow our business via consistent marketing efforts, including regular e-mails and social media posts."
Amanat Anand and Shubham Issar, SoaPen
"We are excited to expand our product line and look at unique ways to brand our company. In addition, we are both looking to improve our daily movement. My goal is to go to the gym 5X a week, while Shubham aims to get 10,000 steps daily."
Michelle Dudash, SpiceKick
“I want to focus on my distribution strategy and hire a co-packer. I want to be ready when any sales opportunity hits."
Toni Gilliard, TLC Cocktails
“I’m focusing on love (both receiving and giving) in my personal life and growth for my business in the form of distribution.”
Pauline Ang and Olivia Chen, Twrl Milk Tea
"Our focus in 2023 is scaling our production. We've seen such a tremendous increase in demand for our products we need to have the processes in place to meet it." .
Beverly Malbranche, Caribbrew
“I would love for Caribbrew to have more retail partners this year. Our online sales are great, but it would be great to be in more physical locations to be closer to our customers.”
Instead of stressing about fulfilling New Year's resolutions, concentrate on one aspect of your business or personal life. What steps can you take to improve that area? By honing in on a specific detail, you are more likely to develop habitats that will help achieve a larger goal.