Real Growth? It's a Sod Story

We recently had some work done on our neighborhood water lines. Although the intent was to be as least disruptive as possible, the job required a fair amount of digging in just about every yard on our street. After several months of looking at various stages of excavation blight and some debate on whose yard got the worst if it, the finishing crew finally came in to restore the damage. And, I must say they did a very good job of filling the holes, leveling the ground and laying the rolls of sod required to once again, provide a beautiful, grassy surface. At that point, all the yards looked pretty much the same. There was fresh, new grass and from every indication the work was now complete.

However, anyone who has had experience with fresh sod knows, or at least soon learns, that in spite of the healthy-looking blades, the grass has no real root and unless specific care is taken to allow it to do so, it will soon wither and die. So, it's not enough to simply make the application and move on -- not if we want to see permanent and healthy growth. Our new grass needs to be watered and properly fed if it's going to take root. So why should it be any different in the areas of our personal and occupational growth?

Today, we have more information available to us than in any other time in history. Books, articles, blogs, podcasts, websites, audio-books, e-books, and electronic newsletters are within immediate reach at almost any time and in almost any place. That means we have seemingly unlimited amounts of "informational sod" that we can simply cut, lift out, and apply where needed. Sometimes it shows up on dramatic backgrounds or on cleverly designed memes, or in audio soundbites -- and we look good and we sound good.

However, much like the freshly laid sod, there is no real root underneath. Give it a little time, or apply some heat to it, and that which looked so lush soon begins to wither. The question becomes; did we really learn the information, or did we simply apply a nice layer to the surface and hope that no one would dig much further? More importantly, did we squander the opportunity to experience the deeper growth by letting the information and potential knowledge flourish and take root?

Like real sod, true growth and real change in our habits takes root over time. We need to give ourselves that time and then add the elements of consistency and life application if we're going to get the real benefit of true learning. Perhaps we need to slow down and take the emphasis off quantity and place it where it really belongs -- on quality. Benjamin Franklin developed his 13 virtues at the age of 20, but spent the rest of his life mastering each one by practicing them over and over and over again. Certainly, he learned a great many things throughout his very successful life. History bears out the deeper roots of his accomplishment.

What about us? What are we capable of truly learning and mastering in the remainder of our lifetime? Will we commit ourselves to careful study, critical thinking, intelligent reasoning and consist feeding and application? Or, will we be content to simply take a slice of knowledge here and there, lay it down quickly and in time watch it die from lack of adequate upkeep? The choice is ours, but I believe legacy favors the evidence of our deeper roots rather than the memories of our withered grass.

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

What's Your Wake-Up Call?

"Sometimes it takes a wake-up call, doesn't it, to alert us to the fact that we're hurrying through our lives instead of actually living them; that we're living the fast life instead of the good life." -- Carl Honore

"What's your wake-up call?" That's the question recently posed by the president of my local networking group. Actually it was more of a theme we were to use to craft and deliver our "60 second commercial" for the upcoming meeting. The intent was to come up with a bold, attention-getting statement designed to capture attention and magnify the impact of what we had to say in the remaining 50 to 55 seconds -- and it's important to have good one. But, I couldn't help but think about what may be the larger and more important consideration for such a question. While we are certainly alive, are we really living? While we appear to be awake, are we really sleepwalking through our routine? Are we due for a wake-up call?

I believe we have a tendency to find a certain stability or status quo in our surroundings, in our relationships, in our occupations, in the very freedom and liberty we currently enjoy. However, most of us have lived through at least one unexpected event or change that has rocked our world -- personally or collectively. Chances are we've experienced both and most likely we've experienced these events more than once. In fact, the older we get, the more likely we are to be able to list and recount a number of such events. To some extent, such things are "seniority driven" and if we stick around long enough we're going see some things, feel some things, and be changed by some things. But isn't the expectation of attaining that "seniority" a form of, or evidence of our stability-based thinking? Judging from the way most of us seem to go about our lives, I'd have to believe the answer is -- yes.

The truth is, we may not have the time we think we do. Worse yet, those we profess to have prominence and critical importance in our lives may not either. Inherently we know that nothing is permanent and everything is subject to change -- naturally or unnaturally. People, situations, possessions, surroundings -- literally everything we see and touch can, and at some point will be, gone or forever altered. We know it, but do our decisions, priorities, and actions reflect our knowledge? Again, it is as if we are asleep. We can't remain in our slumber -- at some given time the wake-up call is coming. Why not wake up before the alarm and make some important changes?

In my workshops and coaching sessions, I will often ask my clients to list their top three priorities. I will then ask them to carefully reflect on what they've written down and then ask them how much time they are really spending on the very things or the very people they deem to be most important. For many, it is a startling revelation -- a wake-up call. Let me ask you to do the same thing.

Take a moment and list out your top priorities. Take a look at what you've written and consider these points:

1. Are these really your most important priorities, or have you lost track of what and who is really most important?
2. What is the true cost of fulfillment in terms of your time, treasure, your health -- your relationships?
3. Assuming these are your top priorities, how much of your time and treasure are you investing on a daily and consistent basis?
4. If you knew everyone and everything that is important to you was going to be gone tomorrow, how would it change your today? Who? What? When? Where? How?

I can tell you that from my experience the top priorities, whether they are initially listed or not, ultimately end up being people, personal health, and lost time. Most everything else can be purchased or replaced.

What's your wake-up call? Will you answer it -- or will you let it ring? Choose!

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

Have or Have Not -- Which Gets YOUR Attention?

"The measure of who we are is what we do with what we have." -- Vince Lombardi

Question: When left to your own thoughts, do you focus more on what you have or what you don't have? Your answer will determine, and most likely already has determined, at least to some degree, your level of success.

I believe it is much too easy to allow ourselves to focus on what we're missing instead of what we have available -- and as a result, surrender the opportunity to build not only our success, but our character, our endurance, and our legacy. In other words, in spite of a possible appointment with destiny, we look at our present conditions and resources and decide not to show up. On the average, it makes sense -- but since when has greatness and personal best ever been found in the comfortable arms of average?

Sometimes it just takes a little bit of inspiration and a look at those who took what they had and made the most of it. One of my favorite inspirational stories, and one that I often talk about, comes from the life of Olympic Runner, Glenn Cunningham. I first read about him when I was in the fifth grade and his courage and determination have always stuck with me and served as a reminder of what is possible.

At the age of eight, Glenn Cunningham was badly burned when a schoolhouse furnace exploded. His older brother Floyd was killed in the accident. Glenn's legs were burned so badly that his doctors recommended amputation. Seeing his distress, Glenn's parents wouldn't allow it and opted for extensive therapy.

Some two years later and determined to walk again, Glenn discovered that running helped alleviate his pain. “It hurt like thunder to walk, but it didn't hurt at all when I ran", said Cunningham. "So for five or six years, about all I did was run... I didn’t move 10 feet without breaking into a run. I ran and ran and ran.”

Glenn Cunningham ran all the way to the University of Kansas where he set a national record in the collegiate mile. Known as the "Kansas Flyer", Glenn Cunningham also competed in the 1932 and 1936 Summer Olympic Games and was even voted "Most Popular Athlete" by his fellow Olympians. He did all this on a damaged pair of legs and a fierce determination to overcome what he didn't have. The fire had weakened his legs, destroyed his transverse arch, and had taken the toes from his left foot. It didn't take his spirit and he never quit.

I believe we can all learn from the example of Glenn Cunningham and faithfully apply his sage advice: “If you stay in the running,” if you have endurance, you are bound to win over those who haven’t.” I believe Vince Lombardi would agree that Glenn Cunningham did all he could with what he had -- and didn't have.

Let's not look at what we're missing, let's look at what we're made of, and more specifically what we have, right now, to start putting it all together. Step out with faith and with courage. There's no telling where your race might take you.

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

Turning Our I's Toward Success

"Some people dream of success, while other people get up every morning and make it happen.” -- Wayne Huizenga

I wonder if there is any word used more often in business and occupational circles than the word, "success". Although its meaning, interpretation, and even its application can be endlessly debated, it is widely understood to be something of great value and worthy of our effort and pursuit. The operative word here is pursuit.

As the above quote indicates, success is not likely to come without a concerted effort to "make it happen". However, as most of us can attest, making it happen is a whole lot easier said than done. When we think of all the stops and starts, as well as, the speed bumps and roadblocks we've endured on the road to success, we can confidently say that success does not easily yield its best fruit. We can also say that hard work alone is probably not enough to hit its highest heights. We need the right attitude, the right strategy, the right people, and more often than not, the right example to follow.

Looking at the success of others and the pathways they've taken can help bring our own success aspirations into perspective if we'll take the time to open our "I's" -- Innovation, Integration, and Imitation. Here's a few example of how others have done that very thing:

Success through Innovation: It's hard to believe it's been 50 years since the release of The Beatles' landmark album "Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." I happened to catch a portion of the new program, Sgt. Pepper's Musical Revolution on public television and was captivated by the level of innovation used during the time of its recording. Innovations that continue to influence recordings even today. From its concept to its instrumentation, to its change in recording techniques, Sergeant Pepper was totally different and would forever define The Beatles as musical innovators and propel them to even greater levels of success. Being first has its advantages.

Success through Integration: Sometimes the best way to success is through the integration of processes or in the case of the IPhone, devices. When Steve Jobs stepped on to the platform at MacWorld in 2007, our world was about to change. What he showed us was a mobile phone with the ability to communicate with the internet, and maybe even listen to a little music. After three years of work, three separate functions, on three separate devices, were now combined into one handheld device -- and everybody wanted one. They still do. Today, the smartphone is probably considered our most important business and personal communication tool -- and it is hard to imagine functioning without it. What important integrations are still possible?

Success through Imitation: According to a 2010 article in Harvard Business Review, "imitation is underappreciated" and has been used by some of today's most successful companies and organizations. Although there can be a certain stigma associated with imitation, there is a case that can be made for its success. According to Oded Shenkar, "copying others’ ideas is good business. Sometimes it’s great business. And it happens more often than people think." From the smartphone to the success of Walmart and McDonalds, imitation has played a major role in advancing ideas and refining products and processes. It may not only be the sincerest form of flattery, it may also be a great strategy for success.

While there are many paths and methodologies to follow in pursuit of our individual and corporate success, it may be time well spent to turn our I's toward the key areas of innovation, integration, and imitation -- and how they can be used in the development of our goals, objectives, plans, and strategies.

I wish you great success!

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.  

On Your Mark, Get Set... Run!

"It is never wise to run any race but your own." -- Tim Fargo

On July 20, 1996, I ran my very first road race. It was an 8K (4.97 miles), and at 41 years old, I covered the distance in 48:30. At the time I can remember being pleased with the fact I had finished the race, but I was pretty disappointed in the time it took me to do it. I had set a goal to run 8 minute miles and ended up averaging 9:45 instead. Looking back, I can see it was probably an unreasonable goal for an overweight, mostly non-athletic couch potato on the other side of 40.

In fact, it was while I was lying on the couch one Sunday afternoon that I spotted an article about an upcoming road race and a local premier runner who was promoting it. "One of these days", I thought to myself, "I'm going to do something like this." Content in my total non-commitment, I turned the page to finish the article -- and there it was -- a 9 week training schedule.

Still not convinced that this was for me, I looked at the schedule for the first week. It started with a quarter mile run. I knew I couldn't do much, but I did believe I could manage to run at least that far. It also started that very day. In a moment of inspiration, I got off the couch, I cut out the schedule, I laced up my shoes, and headed out the door. Nine weeks later, on what seemed like the hottest night of the summer, I joined hundreds of other runners for the 1996 Road Runner Classic, in Northville, MI. Some 50 minutes later, I knew that a momentary decision, made while relaxing on the couch, would change my life.

Over the next few years, there would be many other races at distances ranging from one mile to 10K. Predictably, my average mile times dropped progressively lower, and I eventually found myself very close to that 8 minute goal. Turns out it wasn't an unreasonable goal, just an unrealistic expectation of what I was capable of doing without logging a whole lot of miles and dealing with the inevitable pains of pushing myself forward. Reality, and no small dose of humility, had a way of reshaping my thinking.

Fast forward almost 21 years. At 62 years old and carrying an additional 40 or more pounds, reality was about to crash through my expectations, once again. Although I had participated in a few races over the last couple years, I had mostly resigned myself to walking and didn't seriously train for the events. My former days of running were now long past and up until this particular race; I hadn't really challenged myself during the training periods. It showed up in my results. This time however, I would train faithfully and in my mind recapture some of my former speed and endurance. It didn't happen.

After 9 weeks of training (27 workouts) and 64 logged miles, I had managed to run one continuous mile exactly one time -- and it wasn't very fast. Plagued by sore muscles, aching joints, labored breathing, and zero weight loss, training was an absolute chore. Yet last Saturday, June 3, 2017, I lined up with my wife, a group from my church, and several members of the community for the Great Bacon 5K Run. I'd love to tell you that I had the race of my life, but the reality is I felt like I was just trying to hold on to it.

Alternating with periods of running and walking we managed to cross the line at 42:46 at an average 13:47 per mile. I had truly given it everything I had. When I could breathe again, I turned to my wife and said "I just ran my last race. I just don't have it anymore." At that moment, I was done. The frustration over past accomplishment and the reality of the present result sat hard on me -- as evidenced in the above photo. Suddenly, it seemed like the years, the minor medical issues, and a traitorous respiratory system had conspired against me. Then something interesting happened.

I noticed that the winner of my age group was also 62 years old and had come in at 24:57 an average 8:03 per mile. I also noticed that the man who finished just behind me was 79 years old. The difference was 3 seconds! Suddenly it wasn't about age after all, but rather about individual ability, mindset -- and perhaps just a bit about lifestyle choices. I don't know the history of either one of these gentleman and it really doesn't make a difference. What matters is that I learned some important things through the experience.

First of all, I learned that at my age, I am probably still capable of significant improvement. I may never see 8 minute miles, but I know someone my age is doing it -- and that is inspiring to me. Secondly, I've learned that I still have some races left in me and I certainly hope someday I'll be that 79 year old nipping at the heels of a 62 year old youngster on the verge of quitting.

I learned that it wasn't the time that mattered -- it was showing up at the starting line and fighting through to the finish line. I learned it wasn't about the quality of the training -- it was about the effort and the consistency in completing each day. Perhaps, most of all, I learned that I am blessed to be able to stand up on these two feet every day and try again -- no matter the result.

So this morning, with great thankfulness, I stepped out onto the road and I started to run some, walk some, and then run some more. There is another race coming up in a few weeks and I want to see if I can improve, just a little.

That's the interesting thing about life, about business, and about opportunity. There's always another race coming up. The question is: Will we be at the starting line? See you there!

Photo Credit: Great Bacon Run Staff

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

Can We Forget What We're Selling?

"It sounded funny when he said it, and then I began to think about..."

Recently, I was on a call with some fellow coaches. We were talking about our industry and some of the challenges and opportunities we have in bringing value to our clients. Since sales coaching is one of our premier offerings, the subject inevitably turned in that direction -- and that's when our facilitator said: "Sometimes I think people forget what they're selling."

It sounded funny when he said it, and then I began to think about the possible truth represented in that simple statement. In spite of our knowledge, and sometimes years of experience, is it really possible that, at least to some degree we can forget what we're selling? Can we stand so close to our product or service that we lose touch with what it really is and the value it brings to our customers and clients? Be careful before you answer.

Now I'm not saying that we develop some sort of amnesia in regard to something we supposedly know like the back of our hand. But, I do believe we can lose touch with the true value of what we sell, and in turn, lose some of the effectiveness we have in selling it. The problem is the decline comes so gradually we probably fail to notice its symptoms.

On the other hand, the results can be very noticeable. Declining profits, lower performance, indeterminate sales cycles, and a sudden increase in excuses are just a few of the unwanted results. So, what's really happening here? What is being lost or forgotten? Here are four areas we might consider:

Products: While it is an essential and reasonable expectation that we know the products and services we sell, there are a couple areas here in which we can become forgetful. As we become increasingly more comfortable with the product or service, we can also become increasingly more complacent. Our original enthusiasm for, and belief in, what we're selling can be replaced by a mechanical and uninspired explanation. We've said it so many times we're in danger of becoming a walking brochure. We can also become heavy on the features and light on the benefits. There's no quicker way to be placed in the commodity bin, than becoming a "feature creature". Solution selling is always in the benefit.

Process: It's easy to forget that solution-based selling is a process. I'm always amazed at the number of salespeople who really have no process -- at least not one they consistently and predictably use. Oh, they might start out with something they learned in training or from a book; but when comfort and complacency begin to show up, process can become conspicuously absent. Short-cuts, over-talking, and a high degree of frustration move in, and predictably sustained success moves out. The process doesn't have to be complicated, but it should be consistent.

People: We must never forget that regardless of the size of an organization or transaction the path to sales success passes through the people gate. With unique personalities, dispositions, fears, wants, desires, and more, people are the real key to our success -- like it or not. When we lose sight of this important fact and adopt a one-size fits all approach to people we commit malpractice against our business, our employer, our bank accounts, and every serious sales professional. Don't forget it!

Purpose: Sales is a tough profession. If it was easy, everyone would do it. Repeated rejection can shake even the strongest resolve to its core -- unless that resolve is rooted in a strong purpose or why. When we forget that purpose or worse yet, never define it, we're allowing discouragement and disillusionment to gain a foothold in our thinking and our corresponding actions and results. Let's not forget to firmly plant our purpose deep enough to weather the storm, but prominent enough to be seen as a constant reminder to the commitment we've made.

So, if our sales success is not at the level it used to be, or at the level it ought to be, chances are we've forgotten what we're selling -- particularly as it pertains to products, process, people, or purpose. Maybe we should remember to look there first.

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

Accountability: Are You Thinking Above or Below the Surface?

When we consider the subject of accountability, we may immediately think about the actions or non-actions we take in pursuit of the results we seek. However, if we care to look further, we'll discover the real root of accountability begins in the mind and more specifically in the thoughts we think. It is here where our actions are influenced and results are determined. Simply put, we can only perform at a level consistent with the level of thinking driving that performance. So, the question we may need to ask ourselves is: "Is the majority of my thinking above or below the surface."

When we look across any body of water, we're really looking at two worlds and two basic types of species -- those who live above the surface and those who live below it. Design, suitability and adaptability are the determining factors as to which world any given species will live and thrive.

By intent and design, we as humans, are meant to live above the surface. It is here where our life-giving oxygen exists and keeps us alive. When we are plunged below, we can survive for a limited amount of time, but eventually we are consumed by an environment in which we don't truly belong. In short, we drown. We can look at our thinking, and where our thoughts belong, in a very similar way.

When we think above the surface, our thoughts are more in line with the environment. They are visible and exposed to the light. When we allow our thinking to slip below the surface, we enter a dark, unseen and sometimes hostile world. Truthfully, we spend some amount of time in both places, but based on our intended design, shouldn't we strive to stay above the surface in our thinking and our associated actions?

Think about the duck or swan for a moment. If viewed from above the surface they appear calm, confident, and even graceful as they glide across the water. But if we could see below the surface at that same moment, we'd see something entirely different. In contrast to the calm demeanor observed on top, there is a whole lot paddling going on just to stay afloat! Can you see how this relates to our thinking and in turn relates to the quality of our accountable actions? A duck is designed for these two different worlds. We are not.

So what does "above the surface" thinking look like in terms of producing a greater level of accountability? Here are four areas that come to mind:

Face the true reality: We need to learn to see things as they are and not as we wish them to be. Facing reality helps foster a higher level of trust through more open communication, acceptance, and meaningful dialogue. We can in confidence state the issue, ask for and over feedback, and hone in on what is working and what isn't. The bare reality may put us at a lower level than we wish to acknowledge, but it is a great place to begin building upward.

Take responsibility for the outcome: The moment we take responsibility for anything we take on a certain ownership and through that ownership have a bigger stake in the outcome. If we want to take possession of the good we also have to own up to the bad and the ugly. It's in the valley where we often get a clearer look at the path up the mountain.

Persist in spite of obstacles: If meaningful growth were easy, everyone would have already obtained it. Part of our accountability is working through, over, or around the inevitable obstacles we are sure to face. Making up our mind that "we will, until" and vocalizing that intention to those around us puts a visible stake in the ground and helps us gain the confidence of those who are watching -- and someone is always watching.

Walk the talk: Nothing happens until somebody does something. Words are powerful, but no matter how well-intentioned they may be, they are no substitute for simply doing. Let us make up our mind from the outset that we will not simply offer our best words, but rather our best efforts. There is learning in the doing and the more we do, the more we learn -- and accountability is a learned skill.

Thinking above the surface builds trust, good reputation, and fosters better relationships in every situation and culture. Thinking below the surface produces the opposite and results in excuses, blaming others, self-deception and ultimately, mediocrity or even failure.

We were made to live above the surface and so are our thoughts. Even if we take the occasional dive now and then, we must remind ourselves that we cannot long survive in such an environment.

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

Guest Article: Can't Find Talent?

Written by, Michelle Knierim of EDSI

The struggle to find talent is especially a challenge in Michigan.  This is because of the high number of technical and skilled trade’s jobs available.  To address some of the issues in finding qualified skilled workers, businesses are turning to three key solutions. These solutions provide ways for businesses to build customized programs that speak directly to the training needs of their current and newly hired workers. 

Here are three key solutions to grow your own talent:

1.      Customized Training

2.      Apprenticeship Programs

3.      On-the-Job Training

1.      Customized training are developed based on the specific needs of your organization, keeping in mind the unique requirements of employees.  For a successful implementation, there needs to be a proven process that utilizes a system that surveys individual skills and identifies the skill needs of employers.  One of the main goals is to minimize the time and cost needed to identify and bridge the skill and knowledge gaps within an organization.  By incorporating your company's processes and procedures into the training, it will increase employee satisfaction, reduce turnover, and improve your overall efficiency and productivity. 

2.      Apprenticeship programs are 1-6 year instructional programs designed to develop highly-skilled employees. These programs consist of both on-the-job training under the supervision of a journey level craftsperson or trade professional and academic instruction. If you want to have a registered apprenticeship there are a few requirements that must be met before it is approved by a union and the Department of Labor.  Often, organizations partner with companies who provide technical expertise and turnkey development, administration and management services for the entire apprenticeship.  Organizations also work with companies and educators to validate existing curriculum and develop new curriculum in order to meet the requirements of the program and national training standards. 

3.      On-the-Job Training, also known as OJT, involves the teaching of skills, knowledge and competencies needed to perform a specific job at a workplace. Utilizing an employer’s existing workplace tools, equipment, processes and documentation, the employee is able to gain the skills and knowledge to effectively and efficiently perform his or her job.  There are many organizations that have funds available to offset this cost including local workforce development boards.  For example, companies that utilize On-the-Job Training and candidates from workforce development boards are often reimbursed for up to 50% of an employee’s salary.

All of these programs offer great solutions to organizations looking to upskill their current employee’s skills, or to provide specialized training to get new employees or potential hires up to speed quickly.  There are currently a lot of different local government funds available for companies to utilize to offset costs associated with hiring talent.  Employers can work with local colleges, workforce development boards, and other organizations that have a training budget, grants or other funds available. 

Educational Data Systems, Inc. (EDSI), 313.271.2660, mknierim@edsisolutions.com, www.edsisolutions.com

Get Back to Basics With Your ABCs

"If you don't have a voice that forces you back to basics, you're a dangerous person. Or, to put it another way, you're at risk, and the people with you are at risk." -- Steve Wynn

In today's tech-driven society, there is no shortage of information, suggestions, or opinions. Agreed? Pick any subject, inside or outside of business or occupation and we're likely to find more information than we can reasonably take time to read, much less study. While much of it is helpful and true, much of it is not -- and some of it is downright dangerous to our thinking.

Megatrends author, John Naisbitt says: "We are drowning in information but starved for knowledge." What makes it even more interesting is that he penned those words in 1982 -- long before the rise of the Internet and its infinite search capabilities. If Naisbitt is to be believed, and I think he is, our current connectivity has only added to the noise and the clutter. That noise and that clutter eventually finds its way into our mind and our thoughts and heavily influences our actions and ultimately our results. Simply put, a noisy or cluttered mind can only produce equally noisy or cluttered results.

We're told what to do, what to think, and even why "it" is important to us. There's the rub. There is a difference between being told what to think and being taught how to think. Now while there is nothing wrong with learning and employing the wisdom of others in the pursuit of our goals and dreams, we commit malpractice against ourselves and our business when we allow our own critical thinking skills to wane in favor of the blind acceptance of another's ideas and opinions. Sometimes, we need to get off the superhighway of information and enjoy the simple and far more interesting scenery that comes from reading the more basic or rudimentary signs seen on the back roads. In other words, sometimes we just need to get back to basics -- and it doesn't get much more basic than looking at our ABCs.

With just 26 letters we can form any word in the English language -- simple, complex, and everything in-between. Knowing the basic alphabet and how to put the letters together helps us communicate, and allows others to communicate with us. It forms the language of understanding. I think it also may be a great way for us to return to the basics of business and personal success with a simplified ABC approach. Here's how it works:

Take each letter of the alphabet and come up with a word that starts with that letter and represents an essential element or attribute to your success; however you choose to define it. It may look something like this: A= Attitude, B= Belief, C= Courage, D= Determination, and so it continues right through the letter Z. I suggest making your own personal list and posting it up where you can see it and review it on a daily basis.

You may even want to take one per day and concentrate on that specific attribute to observe its presence or absence in your life. In one month's time, you can work through the entire alphabet and be much closer to actually modeling the behaviors and characteristics you listed as being important to your business and personal success. Once you've worked through this first round of basic ABCs, you can make another list with the additional elements you want to incorporate into your journey.

While it may seem overly simplistic in its approach, working through our ABCs can be a great exercise in reflection, concentration, and critical thinking. Your list is customized to you and your particular needs and desires. This makes it unique and potentially very effective in cutting through the noise and the clutter to remain sharp, focused, and full of the knowledge and information that is most important to your success.

Naturally, as it is in most areas of life, some letters may be more difficult to work with. So, if you come up with any good X and Z words, please share them. Enjoy your alphabet journey.

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

Success: Are You Keeping it Real?

"The object of all work is production or accomplishment and to either of these ends there must be forethought, system, planning, intelligence, and honest purpose, as well as perspiration." -- Thomas Edison

If the dozens and dozens of inspiring memes, quotes, tweets, and posts that pass before our eyes on a daily basis are to be believed, success is just outside our grasp. We simply have to picture it, chant it, claim it, or in some similar fashion take hold of it. Question: How's that working out for you?

While we know that the attainment of lasting success is not nearly this easy, our thoughts, plans, and actions -- or the absence of such -- can give passive support to such notions. Don't get me wrong, there is a time and a place for inspiration, but it better be backed up with a whole lot of perspiration and a healthy dose of persistence. The temporary glow we get from the meme of the day cannot long light our path. We like it, we share it and then we move on. What are we moving on to? Chances are we go right back to the place we were before. True?

As leaders, business owners, and business professionals, we must become what Growth Coach founder Dan Murphy calls the "keepers of reality and seers of truth".* The reality is, success is hard and it doesn't give up its best fruits easily. We must move from soundbites to sound principles and see our business and ourselves not as we wish it to be, but in the bright light of reality.

In the quote above, Edison mentions some important benchmarks that can help us to not only see our current reality, but to use as tools in crafting a new and more preferable one. We all have blinders or blind spots that keep us from seeing the most accurate picture, or at the very least from seeing the situation objectively. Using the checklist of forethought, system, planning, intelligence, and honest purpose, we can begin to get a true assessment of the habits we employ in the operation of our business and the likelihood of its success.

A careful and complete SWOT Analysis can then reveal our Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats -- and give us opportunity to act in the manner Edison prescribes. Seeing the real picture is a critical step in creating a better one -- for ourselves, our customers, our employees, and our stakeholders.

When we have an honest purpose, backed up by careful forethought, an effective system, deliberate planning, and accumulated intelligence and knowledge, we are moving from the simple soundbites of success to the sound and strategic principles that when combined with consistent and persistent action help ensure it. Which would you rather like and share?

Let us truly be the Keepers of Reality and the Seers of Truth -- as it pertains to our own business, and in consistent and unwavering support of others.

*Download a free copy of Dan Murphy's book, "Becoming a Strategic Business Owner".

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

Intentional Conversation: Do We Care Enough to Have One?

"It was impossible to get a conversation going, everybody was talking too much." -- Yogi Berra

During a recent networking group meeting we did something a little bit different. So different in fact that it caused a bit of noticeable, albeit temporary discomfort in the room. The facilitator opened the meeting by asking us to talk to each other. Interestingly enough, most of the attendees had been there for several minutes prior to the start and there was a buzz in the room from the many "conversations" already going on. It was normal. It was typical. It felt right. That is until the facilitator asked us to turn to the person next to us and find out "what is your favorite food?"

The question was simple enough and the answer was probably equally as simple, yet there was something just a bit uncomfortable about the request. Although the discomfort level subsided quickly, the whole situation caught my attention. What happened here? I believe it was the request or the expectation to have an intentional conversation that threw things off a bit.

It got me thinking: Has meaningful and intentional conversation become a bit of a lost art? Do we really take the time and effort to really engage with others in a deeper and caring fashion? Here are a few questions we can ask ourselves to check up on the quality of our conversations and our intent for having them.

What do we really know about the people around us? Everybody has a story formed by their background, their family, their hometown, their education, their experiences, their interests, and their outlook. How much time do we spend trying to get that story?

What are their dreams? Is there anyone, anywhere who doesn't have a dream, however faint and deeply buried it may be? Sometimes just the mere suggestion that someone is remotely interested can bring a spark to the eyes and a slight smile to the face. Use yourself as an example. Wouldn't you love the opportunity to share your dreams and desires with someone who cares enough to know what they are?

What are they passionate about? I believe there is a fire that burns within each of us. It may be for a cause, for an idea, for a person, for a place, or even a thing. Much like the faintness of the dream, the embers of that passion may be low or even close to going out, but with the right spark, the flame can come roaring back. Could it be that it just takes a caring and interested person to fan that flame?

What makes their heart sing and their soul cry out? There is a song within each one of us that is waiting to be sung. There's a rhythm. There's a melody. There's a drumbeat. Although it may not be heard by another living soul, the song is there and it is uniquely ours. It makes us who we are and blends our story, our dreams, and our passions into a one-of-a-kind composition that has never previously existed. The song is at the heart of who we are, and although we may have forgotten some of the lyrics or muffled the intensity of its notes, we can be sure it is there. Wouldn't you like to hear it and to share it? Do you think others do, as well?

I truly believe every person longs for a life of meaning and someone to tell about it. What would happen if we became more intentional and more interested in our conversations? What could we learn if we just stopped to listen and engage? Whose life could we touch? Do we care enough to find out?

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

A Question of Influence?

What are your influences? It's a question that is usually asked of singers, musicians, and artists as a way of determining what that person is most likely to produce. The same can be said of you and me. How we spend our time, what we spend our time on, who we spend it with, and why we spend it there are great indicators or predictors of what WE are most likely to produce. Today is a good day to ask yourself these five key questions.

1.    What and who are the influencers in your life?

2.    What sources of information are you allowing in?

3.    Who are you listening to?

4.    How are they shaping you?

5.    Are you even aware of it?

Take an honest and open look at your results. Can you say with confidence that your key influences or influencers are the best they can possibly be? Are you likely to produce the results you're looking for if these same influences remain in place? What needs to change? Who needs to change? When will you commit to making those changes?

To truly be a person of great influence, we must surround ourselves with truly great influences. As the old saying goes: What goes down in the well comes up in the bucket. What's coming up in yours?

This article also appears on LinkedIn.

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

4 Steps to Continuous Improvement

"Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning." -- Benjamin Franklin

It's awfully hard to reach the destination if we never truly commit to making the journey. We can map out the trip, look at the flights, plan an itinerary, and even purchase some of the items we need. We might even hang pictures on the mirror as a daily reminder of where we plan to go and repeat certain phrases that keep our dream destination top of mind. We tell ourselves we're making progress, and we may believe it to be true -- but in reality unless we take specific action, we are no closer to where we want to be. If the cycle continues, we never will be.

Success, much like our dream destination, rarely comes in a single bound. It is more likely to be reached in a series of steps. Some may seem small and insignificant -- and are most likely taken without fanfare, without applause, and even without notice. In today's world of instant celebrity and the desire for quick gratification, this alone may discourage many from ever taking the trip -- or even reading any further. So be it.

To truly reach the pinnacle of success, however we choose to define it, we will most likely need to pass through the portal of continuous improvement. While it won't always be the most exciting journey and we will certainly reach points where we just want to stop, it is a trip worth taking. Continuous improvement can only come through continuous commitment and that continuous commitment is demonstrated in these four key steps.

1. Teachability: Continuous growth is built on a foundation of continuous learning. Ray Kroc once said: "When you're green, you're growing. When you're ripe, you rot." I agree. There is no stopping point in which everything we've taken in remains perfectly preserved. We're either in the process of growth or in the process of decline -- and the choice is ours. To grow, we must progress from merely teaching to being teachable. At the very moment we think we've learned all we need to know, the signs of rust and rot are already showing up.

2. Variety: Taking in information from various sources and formats is a critical component to effective learning. Books, audio, podcasts, and video are all great sources for learning and each has specific value in activating our senses and getting them involved in the learning process. While we may have a tendency to favor one over the other, it is important that we explore the advantages of each. I like to keep books in both hard copy and electronic versions in order to maximize reading time. Having a book accessible by smartphone allows me to redeem the time that is otherwise spent waiting for clients, prospects, doctors, etc. I also like to listen to podcasts and other audio while driving. I have to make the trip anyway; I might as well turn off the radio and learn something.

3. Quality of Content: To effectively learn and grow, we must be consistent in our commitment. We fully understand the need to feed our bodies on a daily basis -- and whether we do so or not, we also understand the benefits of a healthy diet. Do we apply the same commitment to feeding our mind? Just as daily "junk food" will eventually break down our physical health, "junk information" takes its toll on the mind -- and there are plenty of places to get it. How many times has an hour of TV turned into several hours? In spite of our best intentions, the time is gone and what do we have to show for it? What have we really learned? I believe 15 minutes with a good book will do more for consistent learning than 15 hours of average TV intake.

4. Consistent Application: All the books in the world won't do us a bit of good if we are not committed to taking them off the shelf and opening them up. Take a look at your bookshelf. Are there books that you've bought or been given sitting there gathering dust? Are there partially read books with bookmarks prominently poking out sitting on your desk or nightstand just waiting for your return? How about your CD rack, Internet bookmarks, and other areas of information storage? In spite of our best intentions, its way too easy to procrastinate and let other priorities crowd out the time we've committed to learning. To prevent this from happening, I suggest setting minimum goals for yourself. Reading just 15 minutes per day will allow you to finish the average book in about a month. What would the information contained in 12 good books do for you over the next year? What would one 20-30 minute audio or podcast per day do to improve your sales, leadership, or relationship skills? Small changes can make a big difference in daily habits. Why not give it your best?

Continuous improvement is a mindset and it is a decision. It takes determination and it takes time. Most of all it takes commitment and perseverance -- regardless of our circumstances and regardless of our doubts and fears. What's possible for you?

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

The Power of Reflection

"By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest." --Confucius 

Today, more than ever, we live in an action-oriented society -- particularly in the world of business and business ownership. We're constantly bombarded with messages, memes, and yes, articles to remind us to not just be people of thought, but to be people of action -- and that's not a bad thing. But, how often are we told to be people of reflection? What does it mean? How do we do it? Why should we do it?

More and more it seems the world of "business" is giving way to the world of "busyness". I can remember sitting in a training class and writing those two words down, one over the other, on the notepad in front of me. As I looked at them I noticed that the only difference between the two is the "I" and the "Y" -- and that led me to ask myself a question: "Why am I so busy in my business?" I even used the question as the basis of a five minute talk we were required to give that day. It's also a question I've asked of many of my clients, prospects, and workshop attendees in the course of my coaching business. Sometimes it's a question I have to once again ask of myself.

The truth is, we are told that to be more, we have to do more -- and I believe it is true. It's awful hard to reap the rewards of business ownership or our selected profession without doing something. But doing for the sake of doing is at best, less productive and at worst, disastrous to our business and maybe even our health. Like anything else, too much do could be overdoing it.

That's why we need to learn how to slow down and how to harness the power of reflection. Among its many definitions, Merriam-Webster.com says reflection is "a thought, idea, or opinion formed or a remark made as a result of meditation -- or consideration of some subject matter, idea, or purpose." Simply put, reflection can be considered as a form of meditation intended to allow us to think, to reason, to consider, design, or refine our thoughts -- and ultimately our actions.

Effective reflection doesn't have to take a long time, but it is likely to take some practice. patience, and consistency. In my coaching practice, I suggest my clients observe a Strategic Time Out Process, also known as STOP. The idea is for each client to set aside 15 minutes each day for the purpose of purposefully reflecting on his or her business and his or her life. No email, no phones, no interruptions, and no distractions.

Like any other discipline, it takes time to gain clarity over our thoughts and to strategically focus on what we want, why we want it, and how we can get it. This is the time in which our subconscious mind has opportunity to bring all of the day's conversations, considerations, and events to the forefront and allow us to make better decisions on what we should do, where we should spend our time, and even who we should spend that time with.

Consistency and commitment are the keys to reflection and to reaping the rewards it has to offer -- and we must convince ourselves that it is a worthwhile effort. "I can't afford to just stop in the middle of what I'm doing", you might be saying. Believe me when I tell you that you simply can't afford not to. In fact, let me challenge you to use the STOP process for one week -- for just 15 minutes per day. If you'll make the commitment and give it your very best effort, I think you'll see a noticeable difference in the way you think and the actions you take.

Give it a try -- and be sure to let me know how it goes. You can reach me at: tcrouson@thegrowthcoach.com.

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

Four Forks You May Have Found on the Road to Success -- or Failure

Yogi Berra is famous for saying: "When you come to a fork in the road, take it!" Although it may have been meant as a joke while giving directions, most business owners and entrepreneurs find something strangely recognizable here. 

Every business and business owner starts with an idea, a desire, or recognition of an unfilled need. With varying degrees of faith, focus, and fear (lessness), we moved forward in creating the vision we saw in our mind's eye. We began with purpose and with ambition to fulfill the vision. We had a why and we were determined to put the what, when, where, and how into action. Question: How did that work for you?

So what happened? Why didn't the dream match our reality? There are probably way too many reasons to adequately list here, but my experience tells me that either rapidly or gradually, we probably lost our way to our why. We may have stumbled onto some of the many forks in the road, and to some degree or another, we took them. Rather than remain on the path we originally laid out or that was laid out for us, we became distracted and we veered off course. Sound familiar? Well, if it happened to me, I have to believe it has probably happened to someone else.

So what are some of these forks and how can we recognize them in the future?

The Fork of Fear: Much like Dorothy, who stepped onto the Yellow Brick Road, we begin the journey in the bright sunshine, with great support, and with a song in our heart. However, since the journey is uniquely ours we soon find ourselves alone and it seems to be getting awful dark. We've reached the fork of fear and suddenly we lack the courage to continue on the original path and move in the direction of safety, better light, or less risk. But, did we?

The Fork of Pride: Sometimes the longer we walk our path the more independent we become -- and while freedom and independence are at the root of our desire to run our own business, pride and arrogance can sneak in and cloud our judgment. We begin to take our own counsel and stubbornly hold on to faulty plans and habits. Ruts are beginning to form and we are falling into them convinced that we're still on the right path even as the horizon slips away. We can't seek help now. What will people think? Who cares! They aren't paying your bills or feeding your family.

The Fork of Complacency: What may have begun as a journey of great urgency with a tight schedule and planned milestones now gives way to something else. We begin to enjoy the freedom of the open road and come to realize that no one is there to tell us what to do, how many miles we have to cover, how soon we need to arrive at our next check in point. We're seeing some of those roadside attractions that compete for our attention. We see malls and shopping centers and suddenly remember some errands we need to run or some items we need to pick up. We see shady spots and with smartphone in hand and stop for a minute to catch up -- but the minutes become hours. It seems to bother us at first, but after a while it becomes routine. Has this happened to you?

The Fork of Procrastination: Consistency and action, or shall we say consistent action, accelerates the journey. Much has been written about the power of small but persistent steps and their ability to move us surely and steadily to the finish. Great books like The Slight Edge and Eat That Frog contain the vital principles of consistency and prioritization. No matter how glamorous or exciting a business may seem there are times, lots of times, when it becomes tedious, boring, mundane -- unfun. Couple the mundane with the difficult and we've created the perfect opportunity for inconsistency and procrastination. For procrastinators, there is always another time. Worst of all, there is always another excuse. Sadly, when we buy or own excuses, we're often left with little to sell. Timing is everything in business and putting off vital tasks puts us at risk of missing the momentum when the pendulum swings our way. Ever lost a deal to a competitor because you put off making the call? Yeah, me neither.

While there are many other forks on many other roads, chances are you or someone you know has taken one of the four listed here in this article. If so, you are not alone. Best of all, it is not too late to do a little backtracking and get back on the original path. As you do, you'll probably find you are a little wiser, a little more humble, a little more teachable, and even a little more hungry. Who knows, you might even find a reason to write about your journey.

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.

PDSA: The Magic Key to Success

“The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. The fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life; and the procedure, the process is its own reward.” – Amelia Earhart

Although we are only a few weeks into the New Year, we should be able to answer one key question: "Am I taking planned and consistent action toward the goals and objectives I've set for 2017?" This assumes of course that we've taken the time to write down our goals and objectives, our personal resolutions, and a plan for achievement. If not, make it priority to get this done as soon as possible. It is difficult to take effective and consistent action without a clear understanding of what we want -- and the benefits of our accomplishment -- or the consequences of our failure.

Ask most business professionals "how's it going?" and you're likely to get the response, "busy" a large percentage of the time. Shouldn't the logical follow up question be: "Busy doing what?" This is not to imply the person is in any way being untruthful, for there is little doubt that he or she really is -- busy. Rather, it is an opportunity for a little inward reflection and honest appraisal of our progress -- not our intended progress, but our actual results. It isn't always easy or comfortable, but the rewards of success rarely are. If we carefully observe the most successful people we know, we'll usually see a pattern of courage, stick-to-itiveness, and a commitment to a cycle of continuous improvement.

A great model for such improvement comes from quality and engineering guru, W. Edwards Demming. The PDSA Cycle, first introduced by Demming's mentor, Walter Shewhart, "is a systematic series of steps for gaining valuable learning and knowledge for the continual improvement of a product or process." As business professionals, we represent and embody both product and process as we travel down the narrow road to success. So, it makes sense to take a look at how PDSA (Plan, Do, Study, Act) can help us make better decisions as to which actions we should take. Here's how it works:

Plan: The first step is to clearly identify a goal or meaningful objective. In making this plan it is important to include needed resources as well as, success metrics and financial impact. I recommend this be written down in the form of an annual business plan with 90 day mile markers to track and evaluate progress.

Do: As its name would indicate, this is the implementation step. While it makes logical sense that this step is a given, it is not always the case. Think back to how many ideas and plans you've never actually taken action on. Perhaps it was an underdeveloped plan, or fear that stopped you from moving forward. If you're like me, there are still a few of these rolling around in your head or sketched out on a napkin or notepad. To think is not to do. Make the commitment to implement the plan, and then be prepared to measure the result at intervals of no more than 90 days.

Study: At this step, outcomes are monitored or checked to test or verify the validity of the plan. It is an honest look at our progress and a point at which we may have to ask ourselves some tough questions about our performance, our successes, our failures, and our true commitment to our goal. It is also important to identify problems, and areas of significant improvement. But it can't stop here. It is important to use the information we've just acquired to improve our results.

Act: This is the crucial step in which the discoveries and observations from the entire cycle are put into an action plan and fully implemented. It is here where we may need to adjust the plan, refocus our actions or even scrap the plan altogether in favor of a better one. For the most part, the goal remains the same while the plans, resources, or implementation changes.

When implemented as a continuous cycle of systematic improvement, The PDSA Cycle can help streamline the success process by directing our attention and our actions toward our highest priorities. Give it a try.

Also published on LinkedIn.

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a DISC Certified Behavioral Consultant.