Today is July 1st, which means we are exactly 50% through the year 2011. It’s a great time to think about what you’ve accomplished this year, and whether you’re on track to accomplish the goals that you wanted to achieve this year. Of course, it’s also a time when some people need to get real with what they’re doing .. because the reality is, they’re not any further ahead than they were 6 months ago. Whether you like it or not, time is ticking away .. always. Time waits for no entrepreneur, and it’s your time use .. or to waste. There’s no such thing as “time management” .. only priority management, and energy management. Creating the results you want starts with mastering your ability to get the important things done. So today, I’m giving you a short, but eye-opening test to see how you’re REALLY doing .. and give you some powerful insight into becoming more productive, and more profitable.
The Success Checkup Test
For the following statements score yourself on a scale of 0-10, 0 being “not at all”, and 10 being “couldn’t be MORE true!” 1. I plan my day in advance, either the night before or before I start the day.This means you write out your schedule and what you intend to accomplish, not just “think about it”.
2. I have a written list of the specific, measurable and time-based goals I intend to achieve this year.I don’t mean vague, unspecific things like “I will be rich” or “I will become happy”. I’m talking absolutely clear and specific and measurable.
3. I check my email no more than 4 times during the day.Be honest about it. Not a lot of people can say they do this.
4. I never accept incoming telephone calls that are not scheduled in advance.Just answer the question based on the reality. No judgement. I don’t care why you “have to” or if you do at all.
5. I purposely put myself in situations where it’s impossible for me to be interrupted or distracted.This means you turn your phone and email off, close your door and no one is able to access you during that time.
6. I regularly participate in a focused and structured mastermind with people I like, respect and learn from.I don’t mean your family, buddies or girlfriends. I mean people focused on success and business growth.
7. I read at least one book related to my business, industry or about marketing or sales every month.I’m talking about a real book you could get in the bookstore, not a 14 page ebook you downloaded for free.
8. I’ve invested in a training course, program or product to increase my knowledge and capabilities.Meaning, you’ve committed real money to your education and spent at least $100 or more (maybe a lot more).
9. I weigh less than I did when I started the year, and I have more energy during the day.Again, don’t wanna hear the story. Just answer the question.
10. The days where I feel absolutely engaged and empowered outnumber the days I feel overwhelmed and frustrated. When you compare the number of “awesome” days with “bad” days, what do you experience most?You should now have 10 different answers, each with a response between 0 and 10. Add them up to get your Success Checkup Score.
The Results
You’ve probably decoded my super-complex scoring system by now — the higher the score, the better you’re doing .. and the better you’re LIKELY to do in the future. A score of 85 and above means you’re doing really well, and likely right on track to achieve what you set out to do this year. Congrats! A score of 70-85 means you’re likely getting some traction, but spend more of your time frustrated, overwhelmed and feeling like you should be getting paid a LOT better for what you’re doing. A score of 50-70 means you’re likely struggling financially, burning out, and questioning whether you’re really cut out for what you’re doing. A score below 50 is a serious danger sign that if you don’t change things quickly, you’re on the path to failure. After spending a LOT of time with thousands of entrepreneurs, I’ve been able to observe what habits and practices are common to the most successful entrepreneurs (as well as what the unsuccessful ones are failing to do). Simply put, here is a short list of the key things that successful business owners do:- > They write their goals down and review them (most do this on a DAILY basis)
- > They plan their day in advance
- > They minimize or eliminate distractions so they can focus on the important things
- > They participate in one or more masterminds to get new ideas, perspective and accountability)
- > They invest in themselves – constantly (I’ve spend somewhere around $450,000 on myself)
134 Responses
Great gut-check for every entrepreneur at the mid-year point.
Thanks Greg!
Greg, I was puzzled with this question, ” I never accept incoming telephone calls that are not scheduled in advance.” If you can elaborate on it, it would be enlightening for me. At this point, I answer all phone calls as it is critical to my business and contacts. Not too sure where you were going with this one. Thanks
1) not scheduling my day in advance (or not sticking to the schedule when I do make one)
2) getting sidetracked by email. Ironically, since I administrate a website and citizen group, my work is almost all email driven. But, I sign up for too many self-improvement lists (such as yours) and get involved reading them instead of working.
thanks Greg,
I most struggle with clearly defining what it is that I need to accomplish each and every day. When I outline my plans for the day, I have a sense of success that I don’t have when I head into the day without a plan.
Thank you for your test. I am going to post it on my fridge to remind myself of where I need to remain focused!
Enjoy the parade! We are heading to Princess Island Park for music and family activities!
I find that the hardest part for me is finding more people that live in my area specifically, to mastermind with. The majority of the people that I work with live in other states and countries, where I am only able to video chat with them. I found this to be a very helpful test, and it makes perfect sense to take it and see where you are at!
I would say e-mail checking and lacking meaningful and believable goals are the two main challenges.
I tend to be very good at what I do ,massage, and not know at this point the best and cheapest way to advertise myself .What works for some buis does not work for the massage buis.I have been in buis for 21yrs and have been told I am very good but right now I barely have any buis and other massage therapist are moving in all around me and are more visible . Setting buis goals and then figuring out how to make the goal happen is my biggest hurdle
thanks
sorry for the long email
Greg, I am new as an entrepeneur and struggle a bit on un all areas. I did scire high in #7 where I spend a lot of time reading books, periodicals, your messages and some from the suggestions you make. Overall I am in the lowest percentile, I am probably a litte hard on myself as to the grading though. I can see I have some work to do and I thank you for giving me some structure to priorities.
Hope you have a wonderful holiday and enjoyable family time.
Hey Greg ~ My biggest challenge is the constant interruptions to my day. I know I need to be more structured and that is my goal. I guess my ADHD kicks in and I go in a different direction. Thanks for this test it confirmed for me what I already susupected.
Laura
Thanks, Greg. Immediately on finishing your post, I wrote down my number 1 goal for today and realized that if I want to get it done, I don’t have time to write a long comment to you! Getting myself in gear is the most difficult part for me, and your post gave me the push I needed today.
Thanks again! Allison
Yes sister!
Greg, it was not difficult to confirm that my score related to where I am right now in my life. I am definately on the path of failure and I am doing something about that today by taking a day to figure out what is going on. Thanks for this.
Hey Greg … wonderful questions … i struggle with 4 (am learning to let it go to voice mail) and 5 (purposely set aside uninterrupted time) i do this occasionally but would like it to be a part of a daily or weekly strategy. Thanks for your heart for entrepreneurs and helping them succeed. Happy Holiday, Texas Creative Cowgirl
Hi Greg, I struggle the most with the mastermind group. I have no one but i am looking to find the right people.
Have a nice weekend
Greetings from Wuppertal, Germany
Stefan
Great checklist. I was encouraged to see how well I’m doing.
My biggest challenge? Not enough hands to keep up with all that needs to be done! Working to sort the urgent from the important, but a three-man show can be a lot of work!
Loving it, though. It’s a great ride!
Darlene
I never know what I really want to achieve (goals). They seem important in January, but quickly fall off in desire by June. They just don’t seem necessary after all the daily things get taken care of. IF ITKS SOMETHING i really want, I am great at making it hppen quickly, but long term goals never seem to get here.
1. Overwhelmed days outnumber empowered days.
2. How do I find a mastermind group?
I struggle the most with setting aside a time when I can work with no distractions (#5). Working from home and having two kids makes it hard.
Ugh! I am so busted! However, I was just thinking the other day that it’s time to really bear down on my IM endeavors; your message is both timely and inspiring–Thanks!
I am a newbie and have an informational website. I am intersted in learning more about affliate marketing and of course in how to drive traffic to the site. However everybody and their brother offer programs that you can buy. the problem is which ones. It’s a bit overwelming.
I am going to download your offer of the 4 critical elements to build a profitable business. Thanks for the free advice……….Mark
Hi Greg,
First off, thank you for having
these wonderful posts!
I got a 50 on the test. And even though
I have clear numbers that show I
need work on not accepting unscheduled
phone calls, reading books relating to
my business and weighing less, I find
it inaccurate to say that these are
what I “struggle” with.
I recently launched a product: It’s
a thriller I wrote called THE TORAH
CODES, a Jewish version of The Da Vinci
Code. It’s been getting 5-star reviews
and is listed #1 on a few “Best Page-
Turner of the Year” lists.
I self-published it and it’s print-on-demand.
So I have a quality product, but sales are low.
I guess you could say that reading more
books on how to sell one’s novel could teach
me how to make more sales, but in the book
world, the best methods of sales and
marketing shift monthly.
And I think I have a handle on what”s
needed.
I understand that my approach to selling
one book should be different from my
approach to selling boxes of books.
For one book, I say “It’s about a
man who’s stalked by a secret society,
just as the ancient scriptures have
foretold. What would you do if you
found your name encoded in the Bible?”
For boxes of books, I connect to the buyer’s
mission by saying, “The book rekindles
the desire in lost Jewish souls to
learn more about Juidaism by showing
scientific proof that G-d wrote the
Torah. How many lost Jewish souls
would you like to inspire?”
I know I need to contact more Jewish
organizations with similar missions,
and I think that’s my biggest struggle.
Actually making the call.
I think that makes my biggest struggle
planning the day in advance. I do plan
each week every Monday, but I “forget”
to include making those calls.
I’d refine my biggest struggle, then,
to PROPERLY planning my week.
I hope that answers your question. 🙂
To your success,
Ezra
P.S. Please read the first chapter
of my book at:
http://www.facebook.com/TheTorahCodes.com
Thanks!
Okay Greg, challenging me even on Canada Day…but I like it!
I have really taken charge of questions 8 and 9, which also led to a great score on #10. The problems are generally 1 through 7!! They are, no doubt, still sabotaging me. No excues for them, because I KNOW I have the power to win over all of them.
Happy Canada Day fellow Canadians!
I scored lowest (zero) on question 4. Accepting unscheduled phone calls is something I do routinely. Wothout going into story, it’s hard for me to see how I can do business if everyone had to schedule calls with me. So I’d love see some blog posts about this.
Great checklist. Thanks, Greg.
The 10th question is the one that better show my situation. My score in this one was 3… or less… “10. The days where I feel absolutely engaged and empowered outnumber the days I feel overwhelmed and frustrated?”
I struggle most with:
9. I weigh less than I did when I started the year, and I have more energy during the day.
I always seem to prioritize physical activity at a lower level than other items.
I’ve invested in a training course, program or product to increase my knowledge and capabilities.
—I’ve spent the money but have not pulled the trigger on many of the courses—
Thanks for the timing of this blog, it gives me hope there is still time to turn this around.
The only one I actually came close to a 10 on was Making undisturbed time for myself. But as a songwriter that one is crucial!
I learned from the results of the test that I am apparently not serious about being in business. My score showed I am an utter failure. I see it as almost impossible to get myself to follow some of the steps mentioned.
You don’t have to be an utter failure – it’s within you to DECIDE. You simply have to start doing some of the things on this list, and you’ll notice powerful improvements.
Hey Greg,
I’ve been working on all of these since going through your program and am doing great in most of them (now). But, the two that are tricking me up so far are 3) Not checking my email more than 4 times a day (but I am trying to break the “got to peek” knee jerk reaction, and 6) Having a great Mastermind group to participate with (although I’m looking to get this in place real soon).
Thanks for the great check-list! As always, love your thoughts!
Many of these practices were part of my regular routine, but since my business has faded away, and I am unwillingly and unwittingly, it seems, retired thanks to the economy, I have not had this success routine.
Your words inspire me to get back into a dynamic routine. Thanks!
“I have a written list of the specific, measurable and time-based goals I intend to achieve this year. I am currently working collaboratively on a project with other partners. My daily tasks can be very unpredictable, depending on project priorities. So, my goals are blended into the accomplishment of duties to ensure project success.
Would like to know more about Items #2, 3 & 10. Thanks very much.
I am constantly getting distracted. I am lost in the details and what to outsource but I’m not making enough to do it – I am feeling a bit weary and wondering if I should just go out and get a job (which I really don’t want). It would be nice to know tools and strategies that help other biz owners remained focused, productive and making money!
After 50 years in business – Government Policies killed businesses such as mine, so I retired at 70, some 16 years ago. I’m writing a book about what has happened in America, to Americans, and WHY it had to happen.
After years of self study in Psychology and Hypnosis, I finally taught myself self-hypnosis at age 13 – just 73 years ago. Have used it often since in many situations – most throu post hypnotic suggestion.
Hi,GREG;I NEED TO IMPROVE ON 1-2-3 AND 9 I APRECIATE YOUR HELP.
YOU ARE REALLY DOING GREAT HELPING OTHERS.
CIRO,FROM MONTERREY MEXICO.
Hi Greg,
My clients (French teachers) are hard to reach as they are available only a few min in am, in recess, lunch hour and a few min. after school.
So I do take all the phones as they call to buy!
I am the only one, it’s a one-woman business.
So, I don’t know what the solution is, but I always feel on call, and it’s not helping me to be more creative.
Helene, you need an assistant or at least to implement some technology that helps you manage the calls. You could also try to schedule specific times for them to call you rather than just whenever it’s convenient for them. If you take your time seriously, they will start to as well and they’ll be impressed that you’re a professional.
Surprisingly I got 90. I’m treating my business like a lover, or rather the love of my life. The challenges I still experience, come from human areas like being a Mom at the same time as a CEO..so finding the right balance is critical to me. I’ve spent the first 6 months of 2011 gestating the baby that’s about to birth the next 6. And if I may say so…it’s not all the desparate and needy who read these posts but the respectful, open to learning, willing to promote your stuff big hearts too.
Warmly,
(Google) Dream Warrior Jenni P
One of my biggest struggles is keeping focused on my goals. I do really well with the ten steps above, things start going really well, I get really busy and then I stop doing all the things that got me doing really well. I have my email open on my computer all day long and check it continuously. I do write my goals down but I have not established the habit of reviewing them daily. I am enrolled in The Authority Formula as a Platinum member, currently on Module 10. I’m learning alot although I have not participated on the calls. #2,7,8 and 10 are all scored 5 and above and the rest 3’s except 3 which is zero. I would love to hear more tools and strategies to rapid success in my business.
These are great, Greg. I’d say that #3 & #4 are my biggest struggle. #3 just because I like to keep it cleaned out, and being on so many lists….yes, it’s very annoying when most that I delete are just sales letters from the gurus. #4 because I don’t get a lot of unscheduled calls, so when I do, I know it’s pretty important. I do screen the number/caller on the ID tho. So if it’s not a VIP, I don’t answer it.
I will add #6, only because I’ve not had the best MM groups in the past. Short-lived, uncommitted. Thinking of creating my own!
One more thing. These are the EXACT types of questions I ask my entrepreneur clients about their wellness! The same systems work!
Thanks for the check-up!
6. I regularly participate in a focused and structured mastermind with people I like, respect and learn from.
On this one my score was 0…
7. I read at least one book related to my business, industry or about marketing or sales every month.
On this one it was 1.
When I read my total score I wasn’t happy, but neither surprised. There are many things in my life and in my activities that I can seem to get it right, despite my willingness to act upon it. I have always appreciated your efforts in helping others and I hope to read some more of your practical tips to overcome a nasty condition.
Hi Greg,
The one that I struggle with the most is checking my email. I have the application open all day and as soon as I hear that little alert sound I drop what I’m doing to see what piece of gold I have received! I can definitely see how that is a time waster.
The second is having a solid plan for the day. I start most days with a mental check list but I usually miss something because I haven’t written anything down.
Stacy
Stacy, Stacy. Where to begin with you. :-). Turn your email notification OFF. Seriously. That one small step will DOUBLE your productivity. Try it. Break the addiction.
I gave myself a zero on this one BUT I do regularly read and take in ideas and business concepts from various sites like this one. I have approximately 8 of these types of sites and have in fact enrolled in Brian Tracy’s Masters Sales Academy of which I work through approximately one couse per week. So I am actively involved, just not in a face to face or in room setting. What are your thoughts on this type of activity? My goal is to gleen something positive and proactive from a number of people like yourself prefeably those with backgrounds in commercial real estate. Thanks for pushing to keep it real.
Greg,
My score 67. Question# 4, 5 and 6 seemed to be the lowest.
hi greg, great checklist. i guess there is room for improvement on all questions. but question 10 covers all other aspects of an entrepreneurs time spend. if you are truly in command of your time and therefore habits then you have taken care of all smaller issues.
thanks for the reality check.
I don’t know why I am so resistant to writing out my goals, which I haven’t done in years; I also rarely partipate in a mastermind group (only 1 this year). I appreciated the test, because it really hit home on what I’m not doing consistently.
How on earth can you achieve great things if you’re not even clear on what you’re trying to achieve? That’s the challenge. Writing your goals down is absolutely critical to achieving your potential. You simply cannot be your best if you’re not crystal clear on what you’re trying to accomplish.
This was eye-opening! I am great at #8 but it was tough admitting how poorly I’ve done at the other questions. My daughter/business partner and I have definitely seen growth in our business this year and are more focused but clearly need to establish better business practices if we want to meet our expectations.
If we were more committed to actually following #1 once we have made the plans, we would be way ahead, so I have to say that is our first “struggle” we have.
Thanks for the valuable insight!
Thanks for that Greg!
Although I know and have an instinct for what to get done each day from the day before I feel I do not plan it enough so the hours go by and I end up doing long days. The specific list of what long term things i need to achieve in order to get to my dreams ie: buy my own house and work from there. So that would be questions one and two and also the lacking a bit in energy and motivation as there seems to always be so much to do. gotta go get on to it now. Thanks for your time and effort in doing what you do,
blessings!
Jenny*
I have the most trouble with questions 1, 2 &9, although many are troublesome. I’m dealing with a wheelchair disability, extra weight, and I’m almost 65 years old — so I’d better get a move on…
Thank you for the nice Success Check Up Test. It sounds good to compare notes with others, whom you can resonates with. I like the way you rephrase or redefine ” Time management, ” Indeed, ” priority and energy management ” allow better breakthrough. Amen ! Regards.
This was a great test. By my scores I am a definite failure at my business. However I have been doing a lot of reading and going through personal growth and I am NOT giving up, I just have to find a the right path to success. Maybe I need to set my bar higher. Any help I can get would be appreciated.
Thanks so much.
You’re not a failure – you shouldn’t define yourself as a failure. But you’ve got some habits that may create some failures – and it’s your choice to implement some behaviors and habits that move you towards success.
#2 I wait until I feel somewhat successful and feel things are possible before I set concrete goals. I know that is wrong but that’s what I do.
Lowest scores on #’s 4,6 & 7.
I don;t seem to have time to read relevant books.
Greg, Thanks for this post the 2 areas I am having the most issues with are:
8. I’ve NOT invested in a training course, program or product to increase my knowledge and capabilities.
6. I NEVER regularly participate in a focused and structured mastermind with people I like, respect and learn from.
No suprise, my business is not going as well as I would lide Although I’m just starting.
My Dear Greg,
Good day to You! Really I was shocked & stunned by your very good and important everyday “Checklist Items” for all Entrepreneurs in the World. Yep! I got the useless Scores of Under <50,that means I am a looser very very definitely. So I really understand my current situations and have to correct back ASAP in time. Otherwise I will be collepsed terribly in very sooner periods.
Thanks a lot for your kind Advice,
Michael
Michael, this isn’t about anyone being a ‘loser’ .. it’s about whether you’ve got successful habits or not. If not, then you won’t achieve your potential – the greatness inside you. Simply commit to implementing ONE of the items identified in this list each month, and your life will be COMPLETELY different in a year from now.
I read at least one book related to my business, industry or about marketing or sales every month.
The most bothersome question for me to follow
Hello Greg,
I have been putting together a mastermind group, but have trouble getting the right people involved. Everyone seems very interested in the beginning, then don’t want to make it a priority to connect.
Thank you for your help.
Ann
all of them.
i am too comfortable.
so i get a 2 or 3 on each question: ie: Flunk
and i am ‘waiting’ to ‘go’
Greg, I hope it is not too late for me to start afresh. I score 0 in all. I was trying before but Found out I was no where. Where do you think I can start now?
Joe
Start with 1. Implement it. Practice it. Then implement another one in the 2nd month. Do that each month and in a year from now you’ll have all 10 things going and your life will be transformed. Seriously. Try it.
I don’t do any of the above, except for #8 and #9 I scored 10 each.
Thanks,
Geri
I have written out goals, but I’m starting to realize that I’m struggling to achieve them because they are not really as important to ME as I thought – instead I realize they are more what I feel I should be achieving… How do I get to what it is I really want and build that into where I want my business to go?
Hi Greg
Greetings from KL Malaysia
I scored 56!!! Poor scores on Q3 Checking email and Q6 Mastermind Groups.
Thanks
Those are easy to fix – turn notifications off, and find a mastermind group! The mastermind group is a common issue for people so I’ll be posting some resources on how to find and create one.
WOW!! The question I struggle with the most is #1, planning my day, I just get up and “wing” it, and it’s gotten me pretty good results so far, but I’m wondering how far I could really go if I had a plan of action!! Thank you for doing this little test, it was interesting to take!! I am rockin my business, by the way If you’d like the best smelling candles in the world, check out my website!! THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!! =}
Hi Greg, no. 5 is my killer, haven’t yet gone on my own thus still employed. My job is sooo full of distractions, I have invested in a no. of books and courses in line with my next career but time to concentrate is still very hard to comeby. Pls advise
Thanks.yaoo.You have open my eyes to planning.I scored poorly u know?from now on everything wil be on my own neck to get it right .
Greg, I got a 10 on only 1 of your test questions. and ‘struggle’ in most of those areas ……
one of my challenges is knowing which way to go and how to get started
changing my beliefs to that I ‘know’ I can succeed is a major hurdle it seems.
Jim
This is great! Thanks…seems I need some work. I struggle the most on question #1 and #3.
Greg I have got to give you credit! I did a quick over view of your questions yesterday and at first response I did not think I was doing all that well in your list of 10. Then I got up this morning 6:30 am and I went back at it again, this time I wrote out the questions in my Concepts and Strategy note book and found out that I was doing much better than I had first realized with the quick over view method of yesterday. My buddy Rock Thomas tells us to use a STOP technique and that is what I did. I stopped and really reflected on “What” you were really asking and made the question period a time of true reflection on what had been accomplished and the improvements made and where I could make some better choices on what and how I spend my time and energy. If your readers in your community do the work on these ten questions with the right attitude and time commitment, they will benefit by seeing not just what is on the surface but more importantly who they have become. Successful! Thanks again for pushing us beyond the comfort zone.
Excellent analysis. I too noticed that I could beat myself up about the shortcomings, but I recognized that I have been making significant forward strides in most of those areas and am now a little more aware of what other strides I need to be taking.
I am failing according to your test. I don’t plan my day in advance. I am not a part of a mastermind. I don’t read books. And though I have written goals I do not review them regularly and revise them as needed. And I have not lost significant weight.
Thanks for the reality check!!!
PLANNING MY DAY IN ADVANCE
ALWAYS BEING SIDETRACKED BY DISTRACTIONS (family who do not believe i can do it coz they cannot SEE the money yet,they think i am becoming a RETARD! !)
PROASTINATION
oh my score is 55
Greg,
great post and wonderful perspective for the second half of the upcoming year. I appreciate the opportunity to reflect and think about the key points you have brought up in this post.
Hi!
My business isn’t up and running yet. I work as a police officer and I want to start up my business as a coach and develop companies and their employees.
My biggest issue right now is that I have stopped beleiving in myself and my skills. I need a boost!
Thanks for your advices!
Wow! Obviously need some work. Q6 and Q10 for me.
i liked want to learn more.
Of the test questions, number 10 would be my biggest struggle. I also have an issue with procrastination.
This is a difficult thing to learn, Greg.
The biggest thing holding me back from doing what is necessary is fear. Fear of changing from what I know how to do – to doing what needs to be done. If I fail doing what I know how to do, I can live with that. If I change, be different and really give it a shot – and then fail – all that effort to be different would have been wasted. I will be a different person, and still not have what I want.
And that scares me. It is a comfort zone thing, better the devil you know… but i will write down this list of 10 habits, and manually apply them. Sort of a “fake it ’til you make it” thing. I’ll let you know how it turns out.
The key is implementing just one to begin with. Turn that into a habit, get comfortable doing it. Then choose another and do that. And over time, you’ll be doing a lot of the key things that bring success .. and you can’t help but to attract more success as a result.
Procrastination is the thing that holds me back the most. I do allow financial and other worries to distract me. Then I will start to put things off which would lead me to acomplish my goals.
#4 was my worst – this is partially because of the type of work (on call) that I do and the level of immediate responsiveness required and partially a holdover of my old lifestyle of reactivity, whereas I am now working on and succeeding in living more deliberately, and this means I’m not always available.
#3 and #8 were my best — I literally check my email once a day now, and its so much better — also a tip to share with your readers… I spent all of last Tuesday unsubscribing to almost everything, except of course The Authority Formula which is the best! That’s one of the training courses that I’ve invested in, and I’ve invested in more than one. I also thought I’d share another observation that I’ve experienced, and that is, that just because I paid for a course, doesn’t mean I HAVE to use it — sometimes that course leads you somewhere and it becomes less relevant, and I’m okay with that, as long as I’m continuing to invest in the training that I feel are most relevant to my goals (which I really need to be writing down and looking at daily far more!)
Greg, Thanks for this valuable post. Was a bit of an eye opener and great to bring that focus back mid year. Poorest results: Q’s 3, 4 and 10
The biggest thing that is holding me back on staying on track with my goals is having a business. I am still praying and believing God for a business idea. And then write down concrete goals. My goals are still in dream form and not concrete specific goals.
Please help me because I believe I am a millionaire in waiting.
My biggest bottleneck is my health, weak digestion, allergies,,,, which sap my energy, in spite of a regular daily & weekly drill of serious exercise. As also a genetic limitation on free flowing speech ( & also thoughts). I may be sure, but I am pretty slow.
What a telling little test! While several of those items can be improved upon, the most significant for myself was question # 5. I seldomly create situations where I will not be uninterrupted or distracted. This will definitely a key area of focus for the remainder of 2011.
#5 finding dedicated time to work is difficult with 3 small children
Thanks for the great questions Greg!
Checking my emails during the day can get out of hand for me. There are always more emails than I have time for and don’t get me started on FaceBook! How do you structure your day to decrease these distractions?
Thanks!
Trond
Get an assistant, virtual or real, who can help with your email. STOP giving your direct email out to everyone you meet. No one will value YOUR time until you do. Use an auto-response on your email to tell people the “rules” of communicating with you by email, and direct them to an assistant if they need an urgent response.
Thank you for posting this article to make me think about where I’m at in my businesses. I took the test and got below 50…definitely need to improve on and think about some things that are lacking. I’ll post the questions at my desk, take the test again in three months and see where I’m at.
Thanks 😉
Success checkup Test very interesting
Question 8#
The external Environment is very unpredictable nowadays
How would you evaluate Your “Profitable Knowledge and capability programs”?
Your are remarkable,
Thanks:)
My biggest struggle would be with Q10. It’s less down to feeling overwhelmed and frustrated and more down to flat out being totally knackered … lol. It appears to be a health problem which cannot be fixed by conventional medicine and the alternative route is very expensive when on low income. That’s my frustrating bit – it turns into a vicious circle.
Thank you for this little test. My biggest challenges are #1,6, and 10. I did 8 to 10 on the other questions…. score of 80. I found that very encouraging.
I have tried planning my day but can’t seem to get a system that works.
I do read information from people like you, Greg, Max Simon ( invested in his program), Mike Koenigs, and other successful entreprenuers but have found no one in my area that is interested in Mastermind groups.
I am financially sruggling which causes frustration and overwhelm but I still have quite a few good days.
Thank you for doing what you do.
#2:yes at the beginning of the year I printed out your goal setting.It was very specific.Gave it to 2 people of my mastermind group.Only I did not take the time to do the “homework” in writing.Only sort of thinking about it.I started a second business 3 months ago and do write my buss. goals and am falling short.It seems to take me 1-2 days to get over the disappointment and feeling of failure.
#7: It takes me more than one month to read a book.I spend more time on e-books and webinars.Learning always learning more.
Thank you so much for your coaching, Greg.
ps.I scored 75
I don’t know that “struggle” is the right word for it seems it’s more about the choices I make. However, I do not write down a daily schedule and do not have written, specific, measurable, and time-based goals. Really the only one I don’t struggle with is the money I spend on personal and wealth growth. In reflecting about that, one would think if I spend a ton of money on education, I would apply what I learn and be a lot more productive. Thanks, Greg, for the reality check. My priority and energy management begins right now!
Greg;
After giving time to my business, family and community; there just does not seem to be enough time left over to enjoy the benefits of a good read whether about my industry or just to relax. While I understand the benefits; there is just not enough time to squeeze it all in.
All it takes is reading 20 minutes per day. ANYONE can find 20 minutes. Do it first thing, before you even get up in bed. Or last thing you do before you turn the light off. Read while you eat lunch. The question really is whether you’re willing to do whatever it takes. As my friend John Assaraf says, “you’re either interested in success .. or you’re committed to it”. The choice is yours, and evident in the actions you take!
The result hurt a bit but now I am more determined than ever to make a thriving 2nd half. The only thing that is fixed from now and on is the destination, I dont know how I am going to get there but I will be!
Greg, with your permission, I am copying this set of questions and going over them on a monthly (and if I have to, weekly) basis.
THANK YOU!!
I really struggle with the 10th question. Most days I end up being a lot less productive than I would plan the day to be. I guess its lack of concentration and focus, that I have to work on.
Unfortunately, my goals were based on the work I do with educators and with the cutbacks I will not reach my financial goals this year. I have worked with them for seven years and could always count on a contract in the fall, so I am now reinventing myself. Trying to replace that income with something new. I am networking, masterminding, working on getting an e book up and running. Learning how to monetize my knowledge through social media. I am “big picture” and I cannot hang out in the how. If Bob Proctor is right I only have to be clear on what I want, not on how it’s going to happen. SO that is my goal to see my book being completed, selling my services and knowledge on my website, and being completely ok with where I am at the time. However, I know I am the creator and I need to make it happen by wanting it badly enough.
Bob IS right – it’s not about the how. It’s about having a powerful and clear WHY and WHAT. If you get those 2 things nailed, the how is the simple part!
Questions 1 & 8 I didn’t score anything on. I do think about my day the night before or that morning after mediatating, however, I’ve never written it down until last week. A free software package by Ken Foster that springs up as you start your computer has really helped me to focus on my daily goals and I’ve seen productivity rise.
I have serious problems with questions 1,2 4,6, 7, 9 and 10 Please provide you advice on how to improve these areas.
Thank you
I struggle the most with numbers 4 and 5, for the same reason. I let others’ needs come before mine. Until I make decisions reflecting that my needs are important, also, others will continue to act like they are more important than me, when in fact it is myself who acts as if I am not important enough to say “no”. What a great eye opener for me. Self care is important in the business world and I sometimes forget that!
#6 – I find it difficult to find people who will mastermind on a regular basis, show up, be engaged in the call, and actually be engaged in their business. I’ve been in several and am wondering how to find the right blend. Part of how I function is that I need to talk about my business with like-minded people who will hold me accountable, question me, and offer suggestions. I also love to hear about other people’s businesses and offer what I can when they are struggling or wondering how to approach a particular challenge. Each time I’ve been in a group, it has fizzled because the participants begin not showing up or aren’t really doing anything with their business. How does one find people who actually want to move their business forward and are willing to commit the time and energy that a mastermind group needs?
I read over this great tool 2 days ago, and took the test this morning. My two lowest scores are (1) not having the list (with specific, measurable goals written on it) and (2) the days that I feel frustrated and overwhelmed outnumber the days that I feel empowered and engaged.
On the bright side, I have two 9/10s to bolster my confidence – (1) I am now in two weekly mastermind groups with great people and (2) I have invested in not only home study programs but also some live events and some one-on-one coaching. My overall score is 60, at this point.
I intend to take this test every six months; it is a great reminder – thanks, Greg, for sharing it!
Questions 2 and 6.
q4, incoming ph calls. I work driving a truck. The truck I drive has a very good blue tooth system, enabling me quality ph calls. As I’m driving, I can’t see who is calling, so I take the situation as an opportunity. It gives me the chance to communicate and usually end up satisfying the caller’s need, sometimes creating a percieved need before meeting it. Not much else I can do while focussing on the road.
When I want me time, I make the effort & usually get it.
Im having trouble with #6 where can I find or go to meet people in these groups?
Thank you, Greg, for this wake-up call! It has been extremely valuable for me and I can’t wait for the additional tools you’re offering.
I’m awful at letting distractions get the best of me. I check my email too often and am constantly interrupted by the phone. I’ve been working hard – but feel like I’m just not as focused as I was, and so I’m not getting the results.
Your blog post has reminded me in such a powerful way where I’m not showing up for myself and what I need to do to get back on track.
Thank you!
Michelle
These questions were thought provoking, I was dissappointed at the results. I can now do something about the answers, there is a solution.
6. I regularly participate in a focused and structured mastermind with people I like, respect and learn from.
I don’t mean your family, buddies or girlfriends. I mean people focused on success and business growth.
I am bad in every question so I wrote them down on big peace of paper and posted it in front of my desk. I do this test every day. It helps
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how do i build a master mind group. in terms of identifying who is an expert and getting them to be a mentor in my life?
how do i build a master mind group. in terms of identifying who is an expert and getting them to be a mentor in my life?
I scored myself a zero on answers three and four. I find myself checking my e-mail all the time. I also answer the phone whenever it rings. It seems I’m easily distracted in my work and that is preventing me from getting things done as quickly as I’d like to be, and that effects the amount of work I can achieve.
Q10. I often feel overwhelmed rather than empowered. I know its because I haven’t set my clear goals and steps or planned my days to achieve them. I went from feeling frustrated because I wasn’t earning enough money,even though i was goal setting and working a lot of hours, to feeling life was for living and throwing all the planning etc out of the window. But unless I know what I’m doing or aiming for, I feel overwhelmed. Maybe its balance i need to work on.
The hardest thing is getting started for the first time, and it will get progressively easier with each attempt after that. It’s difficult to hone in and focus on just one great concept at a time when you have many passions and interests but are not an expert in any of them.
Do you ever address these questions/comments?
I am poor at getting organised 100%. I only manage about 40%.
I think that my biggest problem is fear and lack of self belief, although I try very hard to over come this state of mind and am gradually inproving.
I would be very interested to hear your strategies
many thanks for all your helpful tips and insights
I have three that I struggle with the most. The first is planning my day so it’s productive, the second is about avoiding distractions, and the third is the master mind group. The third is actually the hardest because I don’t even know that many people who are trying to live their lives this way.
Adrienne
I feel tired of trying. I have reached discouragement. My efforts don’t seem to be getting me far.
Being consistent in all the areas is what probably makes the difference. Believing in ones self & your business is essential. How do you feel proactive all the time?
I am stragling most with:“ I regularly participate in a focused and structured mastermind with people I like, respect and learn from“.
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Thank you Greg, love your work and inspiration and advice, still trying to stay away from shiny new objects, am on track with goals so proud of myself. Only a few weakness’ on the wwight front