How to Figure Out What Needs Doing and What Is Just Fluff: A Practical Guide for Solo Business Owners

Are you often caught in the whirlwind of tasks, wondering what are the essential things you should do to help your business grow faster and achieve (your version) of success, and what's.. well.. just fluff? Or even whats just a “nicer to have”.

It's a common scenario when you're running the show solo!

Here is my step-by-step process to sift through the noise and focus on what truly matters for your business.

Step 1: Define Your Core Objectives

Start by getting crystal clear about your core business objectives. What are your main goals for this quarter or year? This could be increasing revenue, expanding your client base, launching a new product or service, or improving your work-life balance. Your objectives should align with your overall vision for your business. This could also be called your vision. Its the direction you’re going in - your compass!

Step 2: Conduct a Task Audit

For a week, jot down every task you do. Every single one – from checking emails to client meetings. At the end of the week, review this list. Ask yourself, "Did this task directly contribute to my core objectives?" If the answer is no, it's likely fluff. Find a way to stop doing it!

Step 3: Prioritise Ruthlessly

With your task list in hand, start prioritising. Use the Eisenhower Box method: categorise tasks into four boxes – urgent and important, important but not urgent, urgent but not important, and neither urgent nor important. Focus on the 'urgent and important' and 'important but not urgent' tasks.

Step 4: Delegate or Eliminate

For tasks that are 'urgent but not important' and 'neither urgent nor important,' consider if they can be delegated or eliminated. Remember, your time is precious. If a task can be done effectively by someone else or doesn't need to be done at all, let it go.

Step 5: Set Daily Intentions

Each morning, set clear intentions for the day. Pick 2-3 tasks that are aligned with your core objectives and commit to completing them. This practice helps keep your focus sharp and your actions aligned with your goals. You could also do this weekly using my “find four hours in your day” guide

Step 6: Regularly Review and Adjust

Your business and environment are dynamic, so regularly review your objectives and task list. What worked last month may not be relevant now. Stay adaptable and be willing to adjust your focus as needed.

Step 7: Celebrate Your Progress

Don't forget to acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. Celebrating progress keeps you motivated and reinforces the value of focusing on what truly matters.

Remember, as a solo business owner, your time and energy are your most valuable assets. By distinguishing between essential tasks and fluff, you can channel these resources towards meaningful actions that propel your business forward.

Think this all sounds great but still think you need help? Take a look at the ways in which I help my clients do just this