Failing Faster in 2010
by Cory Andrichuk

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2009 was an incredible year in so many different ways! There seemed to be more change this year than in past years, along with the endless amount of uncertainty. So, before we move into the New Year and begin executing our marketing plans, attacking our sales strategies, and adopting more online social media tools to help us connect and converse, let me ask you: "WHAT DID YOU LEARN?" Now, take some time, and make a list of what went right and what went wrong this year.

2010 is optimistically being heralded as the beginning of many new things. First and foremost, a new and improved business cycle! A healthier travel climate across a variety of demographics! Aggressive growth with several cruise lines, huge growth in Las Vegas, and so on ... which brings me to ask you these next questions: "WHERE DO YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS FIT IN?" and "HOW ARE YOU GOING TO TAKE YOUR BITE OF THE INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY THAT IS PRESENTING ITSELF IN 2010?"

I'm asking you these reflecting and forward-thinking questions to help you adapt and plan your year ahead. Personal and professional success starts with an attitude that, in order to succeed, we must first try and do new things. It would be safe to say that the things you accomplished this year were a result of hard work, determination, and trial and error! As the saying goes, "There can be no success without failure." They go together – it is part of the process in succeeding! The more you risk, which is critical to your growth, the more you will succeed. You probably did not succeed at everything you did this last year, but you did enjoy some successes! Unfortunately, too many of us are so afraid of failure that we do not even try. Many of us are too frightened of looking silly or unprofessional and do not leave our comfort zone to try and achieve what we want to. Failure is not a bad thing, especially when you can learn from your mistakes.

I believe the key to your own personal greatness, business success, and an outrageous 2010 begins with failing faster than you have in your past. Successful travel entrepreneurs always ask themselves what worked and what didn't and then reset and adapt their plans accordingly. Remember, you are the owner of your own business, and primarily work for yourself - not the cruise lines or other travel suppliers! Drive your year ahead with vision, be open to new concepts, get in tune with the needs of your customers, try and always maintain a positive attitude, and set those goals! Turn your own fears and professional uncertainties into your 2010 personal goals and ambitions.

Eighty percent of businesses don't plan to fail, they fail to plan. Don't be afraid of trying things differently or simply doing something new. Plan to fail faster this year, so that you can quickly move on to accomplish what you need to, to get then the results that you deserve! 2010 will be as successful as we want it to be and plan it to be.

(You can sign up for a FREE 30-minute coaching consultation with Cory Andrichuk of brandUcoaching Inc.!)

Cory Andrichuk is the owner of branducoaching, a business coaching practice based in Surrey, B.C. (Canada). Among his many accomplishments, he is a previous multi-award-winning travel sales executive and home-based travel agent expert with leading cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Lines, The Yachts of Seabourn, Cunard Line, Windstar Cruises, Orient Line, and more. He may be reached via www.branducoaching.com.

(Credit: Cory Andrichuk)