Businesses tend to grow informally up to a point where delegation and operations become mission-critical. This is called "whitewater" in the parlance of author Les McKeown. Here's how to navigate it.
2. Read the blog post here:
http://bit.ly/StuckStruggling3
3. 5 Pieces of Practical Advice
for Navigating the
Whitewater
4. Be Thankful
You made it to the rapids! The vast
majority of businesses never make it to
this point of success. The fear and
discomfort of whitewater is a validation
of your business.
The teen years are challenging. But you want your kids to become adults, not remain children.
5. Adjust Your Leadership Style
What got you to whitewater may not
get you through it. Delegation and
Operations will now take their place
alongside Inspiration and Workaholism.
From here on out, it’s not all about you. Growth will come through others
6. Get Outside Help
The rapids can be tricky. Have formal or
informal advisors who have “been
there” to help you gain perspective and
make sound long-term decisions.
In the multitude of counselors there is wisdom.
7. Don’t Bottle up the Frustration
Whitewater is a very trying time.
Leaders can crack here. Be sure that
you have one or more “safe” people
you can vent with who will keep you
pointed in the right direction.
The trees can seem thick and impenetrable. Maintain a view of the forest.
8. Be Prepared to Say Good-bye
There may be wholesale changes in
personnel once you operationalize. The
temptation is to hold on to no-longer-
ideal employees out of sentiment.
Don’t. It’s not doing you, them, or
clients a favor.
Some people are a “fit” in your organization only for a season.