The Secret of Simplicity

I'm reading (or rather listening to, on my iPod) a fascinating new book, entitled Power of Less, by Leo Babauta. Babauta also publishes a great blog, which is here. I think there's a very valuable lesson here for business development. It's all about simplicity.

Babauta's key idea seems to be that the route to success (and happiness) involves ruthlessly eliminating the non-essential, and focusing intensely on doing only the essential. This gets broken down into 6 basic principles:

1. Set limitations

2. Choose the essential

3. Simplify

4. Focus

5. Create habits

6. Start small

The last one, "Start small" was the one that really got my attention.

Starting to develop business is usually a significant change for many people. They often charge into it with heroic intentions, and then, a few weeks later, overwhelmed and frustrated, give up. The key is to start by doing one small, new thing every day until it becomes a habit. Make one phone call. Send one email. Spend ten minutes working on Biz Dev.

You're trying to install a habit, basically, which over time will grow into a full-throttle, effective business development program. However, Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither will this. Start small.

Comments

[Nancy]

I can see that you are an expert at your field! I am in the process of launching a website soon, and your information will be very helpful for me.. Many thanks for all your help and may good things come to you always