Want to Know the Secret to Boosting Your Cash Flow?

May 12th, 2010

Service-based business owners too often make the mistake of putting all their energy into developing their “content area” expertise. The thinking is that “If I get really good at what I do, more people will want to work with me.” (And in their heart of hearts they’re hoping then they won’t have to worry about marketing.)

Seems reasonable. . .

. . .unfortunately, it’s not true.

Naturally, you want to steadily improve your skills so you can always be providing the highest level of service possible. But your expertise is only one small part of the In.come Equation.

I found that what turned my trickle of cash flow into a gusher was to put more of my energy into upleveling my identity, not my knowledge.

The beliefs, behaviors and actions that support who you are as you share your expertise are of crucial importance. After all, a seed grows best when you make sure to plant it in fertile soil.

Here are the four areas I focus on to consistently boost my in.come. Try them out for yourself and see what happens to your bank account!

Tip #1 – Uplevel Your Expectations of Clients

I mean this in two ways: First, set your sights on a higher caliber of client by coming up with a list of characteristics that describe this “upleveled” group (e.g., positive-minded, can afford your fees, do their “homework,” etc.) Secondly, raise your expectations of what those clients you’re working with are capable of – they’re not likely to stretch unless you ask them to.

Tip #2 – Uplevel Your Investment In Your Business

A brick and mortar business expects to have costs associated with growth – inventory, employee wages, rent/mortgage, etc. Yet, somehow most service-based entrepreneurs seem to think they can grow a 6-figure business on a shoestring. If you want mo.ney to flow IN, you have to be willing to allow it to flow OUT as well. (Hence, the idea of “flow.”) Assistants, training, and mentoring are all reasonable –and necessary- business investments.

Tip #3 – Uplevel Your Surroundings

It’s MUCH harder to create a positive, creative, thriving business when you’re tolerating a less than supportive environment. This can include a dismal workspace, inadequate team or tools, nay-saying friends, colleagues and family members. If you’re stuck (for now) in a closet office, keep a vase of pretty flowers on your desk. If someone close to you doesn’t “approve” of your work, lovingly release them from your life.

Tip #4 – Uplevel Your Internal Dialogue

Who needs enemies when you’ve got an Inner Critic on over-drive? Turn down (or better yet, turn off) the volume on negative internal chatter. It’s just your ego thinking the way to stay safe is to stay stuck where you are. Develop the habit of speaking as gently and affectionately to yourself as you would to an adorable baby. (We all deserve to be loved by ourselves.)

Your Business Will Only Grow As Fast and As Far As You Do

Growing a business is the most amazing opportunity for personal growth around. And in fact, the reverse is even more true – personal growth is the most amazing, and quickest, path to creating a rich, rewarding business. The beliefs, actions and thinking that support your current level of business are not the ones that will support growth. It’s time to uplevel!

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