Continuously Assess Your Goals

Nina Mosey on January 25, 2024

This is the fifth part of a five-part series on setting effective goals.
Part One: How to set effective goals
Part Two: How to define your values for effective goal-setting
Part Three: Actually setting your goals
Part Four: Turn your goals into a plan

Continuously assess your goals


This means exactly what it says, that is maintaining a continuing awareness of progress towards meeting your goals AND taking timely action to prevent or minimise any delays, interruptions or deviations in that progress. To do this you need a continuous supply of information, and a set of templates or limits to establish when that information requires remedial action on your part. If you are driving a car, you have (or should have) an accurate speedometer that will indicate when your speed exceeds the posted speed limit. A more or less accurate fuel gauge is helpful too, as are oil pressure and temperature indicators and engine temperature indicators. What instruments are available to help you meet your goals?

Key Performance Indicators

This sounds like management jargon, because it has become management jargon, but in spite of that, key performance indicators (KPI) are really valuable (if not essential) aids to keeping your progress on track. They are measurable indications of progress (or impediments to progress) in meeting your goals. KPI could include:

  • Equipment failures
  • Regulatory infractions
  • Operational errors
  • Schedule slippage
  • Communications failures/errors

Numerical limits/targets should be established for each KPI and you should have documented action plans in place to respond to deviations from those targets. KPI data should be reviewed on a regular basis (whether monthly, weekly or daily) and you should document your response to any deviations.

Check regularly

This naturally arises from the establishment of the operating parameters (KPI) above. Regular review provides rapid and clear indications of progress (or lack of it) and will prompt necessary remedial action or (equally necessary) celebration. Once again, be sure to document actions/responses and their effectiveness.

Keep clear and comprehensive records

You will have noticed from the preceding paragraphs that documentation is a consistent theme here. That’s because it’s essential. Human memory can be selective, mercurial and misleading. Your records may be imperfect in many ways, but they’ll still be a lot more use than your memory. Keep a written and graphic record of your progress. This should include the bad bits as well as the good ones. There is a plethora of management software that will produce very impressive graphics of all kinds and you are perfectly welcome to use any that take your fancy. But do remember that nothing will be more valuable than your own candid and unvarnished records.

Adversity’s Advantages

Learn from mistakes and other setbacks. When something goes wrong, spend time and effort analyzing the event and identifying what changes you might make (a) in your response to it and (b) in reducing the probability of a repeat event. This is the time when feedback, whether from colleagues, mentors or external specialists can be of vital importance. 

Stay flexible and be comfortable adjusting things to respond to external changes, whether major or minor. Times change and we change with them, so always be prepared to modify your objectives to reflect changes in your circumstances or your environment.

Celebrate Achievements

Acknowledge and celebrate achievements, large or small. Just remember to include all those who contributed to those achievements. This sort of positive reinforcement can boost motivation for all those involved. And remember it’s not just the achievement of a specific goal that is the reason for celebration but the personal growth in skills and judgement of all involved.

  • Learn from Setbacks:
    • Identify any challenges or obstacles you’ve encountered. View setbacks as opportunities to learn and adjust your approach. Understand what went wrong, and brainstorm solutions to overcome these challenges.
  • Stay Flexible:
    • Be open to adjusting your goals as circumstances change.  If you find that your goals are unrealistic or circumstances have changed, don’t hesitate to adjust them. Modify objectives to align with your current situation.
  • Seek Feedback:
    • Gather feedback from peers, mentors, or those involved in your goals. External perspectives can provide valuable insights.
  • Regularly Review and Revise:
    • Periodically review your goals and assess your progress. Make adjustments and revisions as needed based on your evolving circumstances and priorities.
    • Your priorities and circumstances may change over time. Regularly reassess whether your goals still align with your overall objectives.

Remember, you need to continually assess your goals on an ongoing basis. Regularly review and adjust your approach to align with your aspirations and current circumstances.

Turn your goals into a plan

Nina Mosey on January 17, 2024

This is the fourth part of a five-part series on setting effective goals.
Part One: How to set effective goals
Part Two: How to define your values for effective goal-setting
Part Three: Actually setting your goals

Now that you have your goals written down, it’s time to make a plan!

Divide and Conquer

Break down larger goals into Prioritized Tasks

Divide each goal into smaller, manageable, tasks or steps; specific actions that lead to the achievement of the overall goal. Think of assembling a piece of IKEA furniture; theoretically, a picture of the completed unit would be all you need to put the thing together, but IKEA gives you a list of actions you should take in the order you should take them and what components and tools you will need to accomplish these actions. Create an IKEA-type list for each major goal and you’ll have a road map for achieving that goal.

Get the sequence right

Determine the order for completion of each task. In many cases the order will become self-evident; for example, if you plan to build a canoe, buying a paddle is not the first essential step you need to take. It is worthwhile to spend some time with a pencil and paper to determine what steps are necessary, and in what order they need to be taken.  Write down the sequence and, like Father Christmas, check it twice. Establishing the sequence is crucial.

Give yourself time

Create a realistic schedule for each task, with a specific (and conservative) completion date. An achievable, documented schedule is essential, emphasizing achievable completion dates for each stage. It is very demoralizing to fail to meet a completion date that you have set yourself, but completion ahead of schedule is a big morale booster. So give yourself a fighting chance when setting your schedule.

Set milestones

Milestones are specific checkpoints you identify within a task to measure your progress. They give you early warning of deviations from the schedule and can indicate that you may need to revise the schedule or re-allocate resources.

Make sure you’ve given yourself enough time

Make sure, and doubly sure, that you have assigned conservatively realistic completion dates for every task and milestone, and be prepared to re-assess these should it become necessary.

Allocate adequate resources

Identify what you’ll need to accomplish each task. This includes time, money, skills, special equipment/tools, special expertise, and any other necessary resources. Ensure that you have access to what you need.

Expect the unexpected and deal with it

Identify potential obstacles or challenges you might encounter such as equipment failure, human error, or other external events such as major political/economic/regulatory changes. Prepare plans to respond to such contingencies. 

Seek Support and Accountability

Share your plan with a trustworthy friend,  family member or mentor. Having someone to hold you accountable can increase your chances of success.

Reflect and Revise

Periodically review your goals and plan and reassess your overall objectives. Your priorities and aspirations may evolve, requiring adjustments to your plan. A plan should be a dynamic document that you adapt to your changing circumstances and priorities. Regularly revisit and update your plan to ensure it remains relevant and aligned with your goals.

Actually Set Your Goals

Nina Mosey on January 12, 2024

This is the third part of a five-part series on setting effective goals.
Part One: How to set effective goals
Part Two: How to define your values for effective goal-setting

Once you have a handle on your values and have defined them, it’s time to actually set your goals. Here are some of the essential steps to turn your goals into reality.

Write your goals down

Document your goals– this is vital. Writing them down forces you to examine them more closely and refine or redefine them to make them more specific and hence, more clearly achievable.  You may find that on close examination, a specific goal breaks down into a number of “sub-goals” so you’ll need to determine the order in which these must be achieved. There is a vast range of planning and scheduling software available that can help you with this. 

You should keep some sort of a journal to record your progress. Whether you keep it in a physical notebook or as a document file on your computer, you should get in the habit of recording any difference between planned progress and actual progress and identifying the reasons for the differences. This is not an exercise in self-criticism, but a way of refining your planning so that with experience you become more realistic in your goal setting. And it is very good for your morale when you achieve a specific goal earlier than planned.

Set Both Short-Term and Long-Term Goals

LONG TERM GOALS

Long-term goals are aspirations and achievements that you aim to accomplish over an extended period, ranging from several months to several years. These goals often represent significant milestones in your life. Long-term goals provide a sense of direction and purpose, guiding your actions and decisions over an extended period. They do require consistent effort, dedication, and strategic planning..Here are examples across different areas:

  • Attain a specific position or title within your organization.
  • Start your own business or consultancy.
  • Complete a higher degree, such as a master’s or doctoral program.
  • Achieve and maintain a target weight or fitness level.
  • Run a marathon or participate in a significant athletic event.
  • Learn a language or a musical instrument
  • Achieve financial independence or retire early.
  • Save a specific amount for a major life event 
  • Travel to specific destinations or experience different cultures.
  • Establish a nonprofit organization or make a significant contribution to your community

Breaking down these long-term goals into smaller, manageable short-term goals will not only make the journey more achievable and help you track your progress along the way, but provide opportunities to regularly reassess and adjust your long-term goals to accommodate changing circumstances and aspirations.

SHORT TERM GOALS

Short-term goals should support your broader, long-term objectives. They form the structural elements upon which your overall success and satisfaction will rest. Regularly reassess and adjust your short-term goals to keep consistent with your evolving priorities.

Short-term goals are those you can achieve soon, typically within days, weeks, or a few months. Here are some examples:

  • Update your resume
  • Sign up for a class
  • Read a chapter of a book
  • Practice a new habit for a certain time
  • Pay off a debt within a certain time frame
  • Start a new hobby
  • Declutter an area of your home

Keep your goals measurable and scheduled

Make your goals measurable so that you can track your progress. For example, if your goal is to read more, set a specific number of books you want to read each month.

Set a specific target date for achieving a specific goal. This creates a clear objective and schedule which will keep you focussed. For example, rather than the vague, “I want to learn a new language,” say “In six months I wish to be able to conduct a basic conversation in French.”

Have a realistic and documented schedule with key completion dates for each successive stage. This is essential in planning and prioritizing activities.

How to define your values for effective goal-setting

Nina Mosey on January 9, 2024

This is the second part of a five-part series on setting effective goals.
Part One: How to set effective goals

Identifying your core values is an essential first step in defining goals, whether those goals are personal or professional. The process requires you to examine the beliefs, priorities, and principles that motivate and control your thoughts and actions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to show you how to define your values for effective goal-setting:

Self-Reflection

Set aside dedicated time for self-reflection. This could be done through journaling, meditation, or quiet contemplation, but whatever approach you take, summarize the results in writing. 

Ask yourself open-ended questions about your views on life, relationships, success, happiness, and morality and, again, record the answers.

Examine/Consider your upbringing and early life experiences. Your core beliefs are strongly influenced (positively or negatively) by family, cultural, and societal influences during your formative years. Make sure you candidly identify both positive and negative influences. 

Identify and record principles, experiences, values and expectations that significant figures in your life shared with you.

You now have lots of bits of paper generated by the preceding four operations. Compile these into a single document. You can call it Original Inputs, Initial Operating System Parameters, Core Values/Beliefs 1.0 or whatever you will.

Identify your Core Beliefs

Core beliefs about life, relationships, success, happiness, and morality are intimately linked to your values. Use the material in the document you just created to Identify the principles that are currently most important to you in various aspects of life.

Compare your documented values with your actual behaviours and identify any discrepancies.

Think about the principles you live by and compare them with the qualities you admire in others.

Document the results of items 1, 2 and 3

Review Your Experiences

Identify the significant experiences in your life and the occasions when you felt most fulfilled or proud.

Examine the values in those moments and why they were important to you.

Prioritize Your Values

List the values you’ve identified and prioritize them based on their importance to you. Identify those values that are hard limits and those which are “desirable” rather than “essential”

Evaluate Your Current Situation

Evaluate your current lifestyle and actions. Are you living in alignment with your values?

Identify those areas where your behaviour is inconsistent with your values. These inconsistencies will be essential starting points for goal setting.

Seek External Feedback

Talk to trusted friends, family, or mentors about your values. If you’re running a company, ask your colleagues. 

Be open to constructive feedback and consider your long-term future goals and aspirations. What values are essential for achieving these goals?

Ensure that your values align with the direction you want your life to take.

Regularly Review and Adjust

Values can change over time as you grow and evolve. Regularly review and adjust your values to ensure they continue to reflect your authentic self and are consistent with contemporary societal/cultural norms.

Create a Values Statement

Summarize your core values in a statement. This can serve as a personal guide that reminds you of what is most important to you. More importantly, if you are running a company this statement will mark the defining line between acceptable and unacceptable corporate behaviour

Learning how to define your values for effective goal-setting is just the start. Assessing your values is an ongoing process. It’s normal for your values and society’s values to develop over time. Stay true to yourself and strive to align your actions with your values for a more fulfilling and authentic life.

How To Set Effective Goals

Nina Mosey on January 4, 2024

Making New Year resolutions, then failing to achieve them,  is something of a cliché, whether your resolution is losing weight, learning how to play the piano or redecorating the living room. The scales don’t shift, the piano lid stays shut and the living room remains undecorated. This is frequently because what has been resolved is essentially a desirable outcome without any indication of how that outcome is to be achieved. The final objective is clear, but the means of achieving it need to be defined– several specific outcomes, or goals, must be achieved in sequence.

This is the first in a series of posts on how to set effective goals, so we’ll start with an overview.

How to set effective goals

Setting effective goals requires careful and realistic assessment. To increase the likelihood of achieving your goals, consider the following steps:

1. Define and document your values and priorities

  • Identify your values and long-term priorities so you can align your goals with them. This ensures that your efforts are meaningful and contribute to your overall sense of fulfillment. In the case of redecorating the living room, you need to decide whether you want something that will suit your tastes and lifestyle, or something that may make your home more marketable to a prospective buyer.
  • Ensure that the scope of your plan is achievable with your available resources.

2. The basics of goal-setting

  • Write your goals down
    • Document your goals in writing. This simple act will actually help you refine/more clearly define your goals, increase commitment and  provide a reference against which progress can be tracked.
  • Set Short-Term and Long-Term Goals:
    • Balance immediate objectives with long-term objectives. Short-term goals are essential to ensure orderly, coherent progress, while long-term goals define the overall result.
  • Be Specific and Clear:
    • Clearly define your goals with specific details. Vagueness or ambiguity makes it impossible to measure progress. Use precise language to define successful completion, for example:  “The low-pressure service water will be declared in-service when the Commissioning Report has been approved by the regulatory authority.”
  • Keep your goals measurable:
    • Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) or other metrics to measure progress. This provides objective evidence of progress.
  • Build in Accountability:
    • Share your goals with a friend, family member, mentor, or colleague. Having someone to provide support and hold you accountable can enhance your commitment to the goals.

3. Turn your goals into a plan.

  • Prioritize Your Goals:
    • Determine which goals are essential to your overall success. Focus on those key goals.
  • Break Down Larger Goals
    • Divide larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. This makes the overall goal less overwhelming and allows for a step-by-step approach to success.
    • Develop a detailed plan outlining the specific steps you need to take to achieve each goal. This plan serves as a roadmap for your journey.
  • Have a documented schedule with specific completion dates
    • A realistic and documented schedule is essential in planning and prioritizing activities. So are key completion dates for successive stages in any project.

4. Assess your goals regularly

  • Stay Flexible:
    • Be open to adjusting your goals as circumstances change. Flexibility allows you to adapt to new information and challenges.
  • Celebrate Achievements:
    • Acknowledge and celebrate both small and significant achievements along the way. This positive reinforcement helps maintain motivation.
  • Learn from Setbacks:
    • View setbacks as opportunities to learn and adjust your approach. Use challenges as stepping stones rather than obstacles.
  • Regularly Review and Revise:
    • Periodically review your goals and assess your progress. Make adjustments and revisions as needed based on your evolving circumstances and priorities.

By following these steps and maintaining a disciplined and focused approach, you can set goals that are not only effective but also conducive to personal and professional growth.

10 New Year’s Resolutions for Small Business Owners

Nina Mosey on January 1, 2024

Setting New Year’s resolutions can be a great way for small business owners to focus on key areas of improvement and growth, and if you set them correctly, they can become measurable goals for the entire year.

Here are 10 New Year’s resolutions for small business owners:

  1. Financial Management:
    • Resolve to create and stick to a realistic budget.
    • Set specific financial goals, such as increasing revenue or reducing expenses.
    • Regularly review and update financial statements.
  2. Marketing and Branding:
    • Develop a comprehensive marketing plan for the year.
    • Enhance your online presence through social media, a modern website, and other digital channels.
    • Invest in building and strengthening your brand.
  3. Customer Service:
    • Commit to providing excellent customer service.
    • Gather feedback from customers and use it to improve your products or services.
    • Implement a customer loyalty program.
  4. Professional Development:
    • Invest time in your own professional development.
    • Attend relevant workshops, conferences, or courses to stay updated in your industry.
    • Encourage your team to pursue continuous learning.
  5. Employee Engagement:
    • Focus on creating a positive work environment.
    • Develop strategies to boost employee morale and satisfaction.
    • Provide opportunities for professional growth within the company.
  6. Technology Integration:
    • Evaluate and adopt new technologies that can improve business processes.
    • Enhance cybersecurity measures to protect your business and customer data.
    • Leverage tools that can streamline operations and increase efficiency.
  7. Diversification and Innovation:
    • Explore new products, services, or markets to diversify your business.
    • Foster a culture of innovation within your team.
    • Stay updated on industry trends and be open to adapting your business model.
  8. Networking:
    • Expand your professional network by attending industry events or joining business groups.
    • Strengthen relationships with existing partners and customers.
    • Seek out mentorship or advisory support.
  9. Time Management:
    • Implement time-tracking systems to analyze and optimize how time is spent.
    • Delegate tasks when possible to focus on high-priority activities.
    • Set realistic deadlines and avoid overcommitting.
  10. Community Engagement:
    • Get involved in local community events or charitable activities.
    • Build a positive image for your business by contributing to the community.
    • Establish partnerships with local businesses.

Remember, it’s essential to make resolutions that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) – that makes them more than just resolutions, they’re now measurable goals! Regularly revisit your resolutions throughout the year to track progress and make adjustments as needed.

How do you succeed as an entrepreneur?

Nina Mosey on December 29, 2023

Calling all aspiring entrepreneurs! Want to boost your chances of success and make a killer impact in your industry? Here’s the secret sauce: Unleash your passion, hustle hard, embrace innovation, and defy limits! Are you ready to crush it? How do you succeed as an entrepreneur?

Succeeding as an entrepreneur

A successful entrepreneur is someone who possesses certain key attributes and qualities that set them apart from others. First and foremost, they are highly motivated individuals who have a strong desire to succeed and are willing to take risks to achieve their goals. They are also resilient and able to adapt to changing circumstances and market conditions.

Successful entrepreneurs possess excellent leadership skills and are able to inspire and motivate their team members. They are also good at delegation, allowing others to take on responsibilities and freeing up their own time to focus on more strategic tasks.

Entrepreneurs in general are excellent problem solvers and are able to identify and address challenges and obstacles that arise in their business. They are also able to think creatively and find innovative solutions to problems.

Entrepreneurs tend to have a deep understanding of their industry and the market they operate in. They keep up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices and use this knowledge to stay ahead of their competitors.

Successful entrepreneurs are also highly disciplined and organized. They set clear goals and objectives, develop strategies to achieve them, and track their progress over time. They are also able to manage their time effectively and prioritize tasks to ensure they are making the most of their resources.

Some additional traits that successful entrepreneurs share:

     

      • They are always willing to learn and improve their skills. They seek out opportunities for professional development, such as attending conferences, networking events, and workshops. They also surround themselves with mentors and advisors who can provide guidance and support.

      • They are customer-focused and understand the importance of providing excellent customer service. They listen to their customers’ needs and feedback and use this information to improve their products or services.

      • Successful entrepreneurs are also financially savvy. They have a good understanding of their business finances and keep track of their cash flow, revenue, and expenses. They also have a solid business plan in place that outlines their financial goals and strategies for achieving them.

      • They are able to build strong relationships with suppliers, partners, and other stakeholders in their industry. These relationships help them to access resources, expand their network, and stay informed about industry trends and developments.

      • Successful entrepreneurs are passionate about what they do and are able to communicate this passion to others. They are able to inspire and motivate their team members, customers, and stakeholders to share their vision and work towards their goals.

    Being an entrepreneur is a wild rollercoaster of challenges and triumphs! Ambitious and determined, they dive into the unknown, taking risks and making sacrifices. But the rewards? They’re huge! Financial success, personal growth, and the chance to create something incredible from scratch!

    Dream Big!

    How do you succeed as an entrepreneur? “Dream big and dare to fail” is a phrase that encourages individuals to aim high and pursue their goals without fear of failure. It means that it’s better to take risks and try to achieve something great, even if there’s a chance that you may not succeed, than to settle for less and always wonder “what if?”.

    Many successful people have embraced this philosophy and achieved great things through persistence, hard work, and the willingness to take risks. Of course, failure is always a possibility when you’re trying something new. On the other hand, it’s important to remember that failure is not the end of the road. In fact, it’s often through failure that we learn the most and develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the future.

    If you’re someone who tends to play it safe and avoids taking risks, remember that there’s no guarantee of success in life, no matter how cautious you are. So why not aim high, take risks, and see what you’re truly capable of achieving? Who knows, you may surprise yourself and achieve something truly amazing.

    More reading: 8 Traits That Make A Successful Entrepreneur, Forbes Magazine

    The Impact of Coworking Spaces on Employee Well-Being: A Research Study

    Nina Mosey on November 10, 2023

    Are you curious about the impact of coworking spaces on employee well-being? We’ve got some exciting findings to share with you!

    A recent research study1 delved into the influence of coworking spaces on employee well-being, and the results are in.

    According to the study, individuals working in coworking spaces reported higher levels of satisfaction and overall well-being compared to traditional office settings.

    Here’s why coworking spaces make a positive difference:

    1. Enhanced social connections: Coworking spaces provide a unique opportunity for professionals from diverse backgrounds to connect, collaborate, and share ideas. This sense of community fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, promoting improved mental health and reducing feelings of isolation.
    2. Increased work-life balance: Coworking spaces offer flexibility and autonomy, allowing employees to have more control over their schedules. With non-traditional working hours and greater freedom to prioritize personal commitments, individuals experience reduced stress levels and a healthier work-life balance.
    3. Inspiring work environment: Coworking spaces are designed to be open, vibrant, and conducive to creativity. The atmosphere boosts motivation and productivity, inspiring employees to reach new heights in their work.
    4. Learning and growth opportunities: Coworking spaces often host workshops, networking events, and skill-sharing sessions, creating ample learning opportunities for professionals. This exposure to new knowledge and perspectives contributes to personal development and career growth.

    Employees and employers face a common challenge: how to optimize hybrid work policies that benefit both sides. One issue that needs attention is employee loneliness, which can have a negative impact on their well-being and performance. But here’s the good news: coworking sites hold promise in reducing this loneliness.

    Remote and hybrid work arrangements can sometimes exacerbate feelings of isolation. However, returning to the traditional office environment isn’t the only solution. Before the pandemic, workplace loneliness was already on the rise despite the prevalence of office work. Employees also crave flexibility and autonomy, including in how they fulfill their social needs during the workday.

    The Impact of Coworking Spaces on Employee Well-Being

    But there’s a better option—exploring third spaces. Third spaces can include coffee shops, hotel lobbies, friends’ homes, and coworking sites. Our research indicates that coworking sites, in particular, show special promise in addressing employee loneliness.

    Researchers Constance Noonan Hadley, Ben Marks, and Sarah Wright conducted a survey with 819 office employees from different industries and locations. Surprisingly, the results showed that working from a coworking site was perceived as more socially fulfilling than working from the office or home (64% vs. 67%). One of the main reasons is that coworking spaces provide both the flexibility employees desire and opportunities to engage with others.

    Here’s how coworking sites boost relational job crafting and alleviate loneliness:

    1. Escape from coworkers: 52% of survey respondents appreciated the benefit of avoiding unnecessary interactions with colleagues, which can be especially helpful for underrepresented populations facing workplace microaggressions and exclusion.
    2. A variety of relationship partners: Coworking spaces gather professionals from different occupations and companies, allowing for diverse experiences and expanding networking opportunities.
    3. A respite from office pressures: Interactions in coworking spaces don’t directly impact an employee’s performance reputation or rating, creating a safer environment for socializing and networking.
    4. Communal norms and enforcement: Coworking sites establish codes of conduct and employ community managers who ensure adherence to these norms, fostering a sense of belonging.
    5. Pro-relational activities: Community managers organize workshops, lunches, and other informal gatherings to facilitate relationship-building and professional growth.

    To optimize the use of coworking sites, here are five steps employers can take:

    1. Educate employees about the potential benefits, productivity gains, and data security offered by coworking sites.
    2. Provide stipends to cover coworking fees, as it incentivizes employees to use these spaces more.
    3. Mitigate the convenience trap of working from home by offering amenities and discounts to make switching to coworking sites easier.
    4. Support participation in relational programming by providing incentives and collecting feedback to improve these offerings.
    5. Provide training and guidance on interpersonal skills and professional networking, which can be practiced and developed in coworking spaces.

    Employers don’t have to navigate the coworking landscape alone. Enterprise platforms and coworking consultants are available to assist in implementing coworking policies effectively. Remember, maintaining employee flexibility and involving them in the decision-making process are crucial for success.

    Feeling connected to others is vital for employee well-being. Coworking spaces offer a professional and socially fulfilling environment that can help alleviate loneliness.

    So, the next time you consider where to work, why not give a coworking space like Bluenose Business Hub a try? Experience the positive impact it can have on your well-being and unlock new possibilities in your career!

    Share this post if you’re ready to embrace a workplace that supports your overall well-being! Like and share if you believe that employees’ social health matters!

    1. (source: original article on HBR- https://hbr.org/2023/02/research-how-coworking-spaces-impact-employee-well-being) ↩︎

    Embrace the power of collaboration

    Nina Mosey on November 8, 2023

    Small businesses, listen up! Thanks to the sharing economy, you can now tap into resources that were once out of reach, empowering you to expand and thrive against bigger competitors. Embrace the power of collaboration and watch your business soar!

    Opportunities and challenges of the sharing economy for entrepreneurs

    The sharing economy has revolutionized the way people consume goods and services. This new economic model has created opportunities for entrepreneurs to start their own businesses and tap into this growing market. However, with these opportunities come challenges that entrepreneurs must navigate to succeed.

    One of the biggest opportunities of the sharing economy for entrepreneurs is the ability to utilize underutilized assets. Through platforms such as Airbnb and Turo, entrepreneurs can rent out their homes or cars to travelers, generating income from assets that were previously idle. This allows entrepreneurs to monetize assets that they may not have been able to otherwise, and can create a new source of income.

    Another opportunity is the ability to tap into a global market. With many sharing economy platforms operating on a global scale, entrepreneurs can reach customers from all over the world. This can help entrepreneurs expand their customer base and increase their revenue.

    Challenges of the sharing economy

    However, there are also challenges that come with operating in the sharing economy. One of the biggest challenges is building trust with customers. Sharing economy platforms rely heavily on customer ratings and reviews, and a few negative reviews can significantly impact an entrepreneur’s business. It is important for entrepreneurs to provide high-quality services and products to build a positive reputation and attract new customers.

    Another challenge is navigating the legal landscape. The sharing economy is a relatively new industry, and regulations vary by location. Entrepreneurs must ensure that they are operating within the legal framework of their area and obtain any necessary permits or licenses.

    While the sharing economy provides opportunities for entrepreneurs to start their own businesses and generate income from underutilized assets, it is important for entrepreneurs to navigate the challenges of building trust with customers and navigating the legal landscape to succeed in this growing market.

    Ready to join the sharing revolution and embrace the power of collaboration?

    Small businesses can benefit from the sharing economy by leveraging various platforms to access resources that they might not be able to afford on their own. Here are a few ways small businesses can use the sharing economy:

    1. Coworking spaces: Small businesses can rent shared office spaces instead of leasing a traditional office. This allows them to access high-quality facilities at a lower cost and network with other entrepreneurs.
    2. Business services: Small businesses can use shared service platforms to access services such as marketing, accounting, and legal services. This can be more cost-effective than hiring full-time employees.
    3. Freelancers: Small businesses can use freelance platforms to find talent for specific projects. This allows them to access a wider pool of talent and save on the costs of hiring full-time employees.
    4. Shared transportation: Small businesses can use shared transportation platforms like Uber or Lyft to transport goods and people. This can be more cost-effective than owning and maintaining a fleet of vehicles.

    By using the sharing economy, including a co-working space like Bluenose Business Hub, small businesses can access resources that they might not be able to afford on their own, which can help them grow and compete with larger businesses.

    Unleash the potential of small businesses in the sharing economy era! Embrace collaboration and join forces to conquer the market alongside the big players. Let’s innovate, share resources, and pave our path to SUCCESS together!

    What to bring to a coworking space

    Nina Mosey on October 26, 2023

    When planning to work in a coworking space, it’s important to be prepared and bring the necessary items to ensure a productive and comfortable work environment. Here’s a list of what to bring to a coworking space:

    1. Laptop or Computer: Your primary work device, along with its charger.
    2. Notebook and Pens: For jotting down ideas, notes, or tasks.
    3. Headphones: Noise-canceling or regular headphones to help you focus and block out distractions.
    4. Power Strip or Extension Cord: In case power outlets are limited.
    5. Mobile Phone and Charger: Stay connected and charged throughout the day.
    6. Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important for productivity.
    7. Snacks: Healthy snacks to keep your energy up.
    8. Business Cards: If you want to network and make connections.
    9. Personal Identification: In case you need to show proof of identity.
    10. Key or Access Card: To access the coworking space, if required.
    11. Wallet or Payment Methods: For any purchases or memberships.
    12. Notepad or Planner: Keep track of your schedule and to-dos.
    13. Personal Office Supplies: Extra pens, pencils, paper, or other items you frequently use.
    14. External Hard Drive or Cloud Access: For backing up your work and accessing files.
    15. Reusable Shopping Bag: Useful for carrying any extra items or purchases.
    16. Health Essentials: Hand sanitizer, face mask (if needed), and any personal medications.

    Coworking spaces like Bluenose Business Hub provide amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, printing facilities, and coffee. Still, it’s a good idea to check with the specific coworking space you plan to visit to see what they offer. Your specific needs may vary, so adapt this list of what to bring when you’re coworking based on your personal preferences, the nature of your work and the coworking space you’re using.