I live in Flagstaff Arizona. This past week is one that will be remembered and talked about for years by those of us living here. This week’s monster set of back-to-back snowstorms will go down in history as either the second or third largest snowstorm since 1900. With about 54″ (that’s four and 1/2 feet) of snow build-up, Flagstaff has seen collapsing roofs, hurt backs, and closure of all entries into and out of Flagstaff including the airport.
In addition to getting more exercise than I ever wanted shoveling our way out the door to the street, this storm has taught me some entrepreneurial lessons that I’d like to share.
1. Take it one step at a time
Shoveling snow, particularly when rain turns it to ice, is not easy. As a matter of fact, it is back-breaking work as many of you who live in snow country well know. But, to get the job done, you have to take it one shovel load at a time. The same is true when growing your business. You start with big dreams and giant goals but to accomplish those dreams and goals, you must take it one step at a time.
2. Eliminate the potential disasters. A lot of roofs caved in and others leaked. Both could have been avoided by shoveling the snow and ice from the roofs before the ice dams formed. When you see the potential for problems in your business, don’t put off a resolution. Take care of it before the disaster hits!
3. The right tools and resources can make a big difference. Shoveling snow takes the right tools. A snow shovel removes the fluffy stuff but a steel shovel makes ice removal so much easier. And having chains that you can put on your tires when the road gets icy sure makes getting home a whole lot easier.
3. Take time to appreciate and enjoy the beauty. Even with the hard work of shoveling all this snow, taking a break and enjoying the beauty (and it is beautiful!) makes the work easier.
4. Accentuate the positive and remember that the negative could be worse. We could have had seven feet of snow as Flagstaff had back in the 1960’s. It could have been worse! And the positive is that we shouldn’t have a drought this summer!