With so much focus on business growth and leveling up your business, are you remembering what got you here in the first place? I mean, other than hard work.

Are you focusing on your craft? You should, because it’s your superpower.

Technology and the economy are always going to change and keep us on our toes. One of the key actions I take to stay focused on my big business picture is to always hone my craft, which is what I based my business on. 

Writing and speaking are my venues to provide impact, and while I’ve done both for years, it hasn’t been without challenges. I’ve mentioned hiring an expert to ensure you’re on the right track in your business, but there are certainly steps you can take on your own to expand on your craft as well.

Let’s talk about your craft, your talent, your skill – that thing you love. Like me, your craft is probably that special quality about you that you built your business on too. It’s easy for it to get lost in the daily work you do. Here are some things I try to incorporate into my life to continuously expand on my craft: 

Get back to business basics – What is your craft? Sometimes it gets forgotten in the minutiae of business strategies. Spend a little time thinking about it, and try to get reinvigorated and excited by it, and, practice, practice, practice! Whatever your craft is, explore new ways to practice those skills. For instance, if I’m writing a book, I like to journal, listen to a podcast, or read books to refresh my brain regarding my thoughts and feelings about writing, and to pick up new ways to approach it. Can you do the same? Can you practice your skill set from a new perspective?

Say goodbye to your ego – If you want to grow, you cannot be autocratic or a know-it-all. To be able to cultivate your craft, you must let go of any ego attachment that tells you that you already know everything about it. There should be an element of humility. That will open you up new possibilities.

Stay curious and seek inspiration – Speaking of an open mind, If you can remain open to new ideas, you’ll be more likely to thrive. Being curious about your area of expertise is a natural bridge to learning new perspectives.

Innovation – What’s new in your industry? Even better, what can you reinvent within it, while staying on par with who you really are? For inspiration, I consider attending some industry specific events for some R&D (research and development, or as some of us like to call it, rip off and develop). It’s also a great idea to network with your peers to get their perspectives as well. For this, I love mastermind groups and keynote speeches. If you can’t attend those, there are onlines resources such as Udemy and LinkedIn Learning, which offer less expensive, self paced opportunities.

Tap into your strengths – What is your challenge? What makes you happy? Seek resources that support what you innately gravitate to and provides tools to overcome obstacles/challenges. 

Remember your own identity – This is a big one. As you explore the different avenues to expand on your craft, stay true to yourself. It’s a cliche for a reason. There’s one you, and the world needs your unique talents and gifts. 

Have other steps you take to ensure your craft thrives? I’d love to learn about them!

As always, I am wishing you the very best in and out of your business. 

-Mike