I admit it, I am a country music fan. While I love jazz, the blues and classical music, my library contains more country music than anything else. Why? Well, I think it is because I can match any mood with country music. My favorite is a playlist I call “Happy Happy.” It includes songs that make me smile, nudge me to sing along, or maybe even dance. Recently I added a song from George Strait’s new album called “Let it Go.” I love this song. I love the tune and I love the lyrics.
Life’s tough and then you die
And there ain’t no rhyme or reason why
It comes right at you so you do what you do
Let it go, sometimes you gotta let it go
Let it all wash on under the bridge, blow it a kiss
Give it a rest ‘cause it is what it is
George has a great message for us as we start a new year: “…sometimes you just gotta let it go.” We have to put it behind us and move on. Think of it as a part of your business planning process. Clear the way for new, bigger, better performances in the months ahead.
I am sure you had great accomplishments in 2015. You met goals and exceeded expectations in a number of areas, but those are not what tend to stick with us. It’s those things we didn’t do well, goals we missed, the paths we strayed from, opportunities we overlooked. Those are the things we get stuck in our minds and which create the negative thoughts that can keep us from moving forward with gusto.
Stop now before the calendar turns and make a list of all those things you want to let go, both personal and in regards to you small business. This is probably a list of those things that drain your energy, make you sad, disappoint you, and maybe even make you feel a bit ashamed. Do it at one sitting. Put it down with paper and pen. Read it through one time. Resolve to put it behind you. Tear it up. Put it in the garbage can. Now, let it go. You are focused on the future. Don’t look behind you. You are not going that way, and neither is your business.
Happy New Year to all! May the year ahead bring you all the joy, happiness, and business success you can manage.