The R4 Method: Four steps for turning purpose into profits in 2010

Business owners get so caught up in “go” mode, they forget that taking time off (for) their business is as critical as taking time off (from) their business.

Just as R & R is good for your own health, some serious R4 is imperative for your company. And yet, this is exactly what people neglect.

The R4 (Retreat, Review, Refuel and Repeat) Method should be an established practice in every company that takes place right at the beginning of each year — and more importantly, at the beginning of each quarter. It’s easier to work “in” your company, rather than work “on” it. But if you step back once a year and reflect on our business for a few days (ideally seven), you’ll gain valuable insight into the nuts and bolts of your company that you don’t notice on a daily basis.

So here are the four “R”s to start the year — and the decade — on a positive, profitable course:

Retreat: Take one-to-two days to retreat from your business. Recharge your mind, body and spirit, so you can focus on the next steps. Force yourself if you have to!

*Review: Now it’s time to dig! Make a numbered reflection list that includes 1. Values, 2. Vision / Mission, 3. Purpose, 4. Analyze strategies that worked, 5. Analyze strategies that didn’t work, 6. Review your **CUSTOMER SERVICE** (capitalize and star that one), and 7. Re-asses your own knowledge (are you up to date with technology? Best practices?).

* Your Review process should take at least two or three days. The further you dig into each reflection item, the better the insight you’ll have. Also, get a team of two or three to review together — be as objective as possible.

Refuel: Now that you’ve spotted the good, the bad and the ugly in your mode of operations, get set to strengthen and support your conclusions as you implement them into your business. This is an important step that will help transform employees and customers into your loyal followers.

Repeat: Take a mini-R4 retreat at the beginning of each quarter to track your reflections and results. Don’t wait another year to give your company some well-needed R4!