Riding a scooter in traffic and the wind is a challenge that very few get right. Mastering the skill of riding between cars, trucks and taxis whilst being blasted by our southeaster wind takes time, practice and skill to perfect.
So what has this got to do with Entrepreneurship? Balance is key to being a successful business owner. Finding time to work in, on and out of the business requires good planning and often an accountability partner. All this whilst being blasted by customer agendas, business maintenance, staff issues and compliance chaos often resulting in us getting off track and losing balance.
Here are some tips that I have learnt from the scooter that can be applied in business.
Never come to a gradual stop and coast up to a destination. In business drive as hard as you can to get to the point you need. Once there stop, access and move on to the next agenda. Slowing down will find you losing focus and balance.
When stopped, plan for the next move. At a stop on the bike it is essential to line up toward the next destination, looking ahead for any obstacles and define your path to avoid obstacles. Taking time to plan your next business move is critical. Look ahead and plan for any known issues or obstacles that may be in your way. Having a contingency plan B or C and maybe D is just good project management. Make sure you and your team are all pointed in the right direction before you set off.
Balance on a windy day in Cape Town traffic is hard work as you are blown from lane to lane between trucks and buildings. In our business opportunities and issues arrive on a regular cycle. All these need to be assessed and decisions made as to take action or go with the flow. Experience will teach you when to lean into an issue to avoid being blow off course and when to go with the flow that will change lanes to better business opportunities.
Think bike, think business.