1. Plan your day.

Before starting your day, make sure to record your daily plans. Review what happened the day before and figure out ways to make the following day better.

2. Check your business plan.

Always take time to review your business plan. Check to see how far your business has drifted from your original idea. This way, you will know if you have strayed too far from your plans, or at least how far you have progressed. If you are not satisfied, consider a new or different approach for improvement.

3. Get in touch with your current customers.

Don’t take your customers for granted. Contact them by phone or email and ask for their opinion on how you can improve and build upon your business model. This also attracts repeat business as well as referrals to friends and family.

4. Evaluate the prices of your product or service.

Ensure your prices are not too low or too high by examining your competitors. If you need to increase your prices due to bottom line issues, let your customers know a month or two in advance.

5. Figure out how you can reduce your costs.

Always devise ways of lessening your overhead costs. For example, you can order shipping supplies in bulk or consider using recycled materials.

6. Never stop improving.

Continue checking into all areas of your business operations on a daily basis. Make note of what needs to be improved, and take action on the weakest points.

7. Set standards for your business.

You must set clear standards for your business to determine if your strategies are effective and efficient. Compute how much your business is earning per hour, and assure that you are utilizing an effective advertising campaign. Doing so will clarify which areas are in need of improvement.

8. Include your employees in your strategy.

All of your workers should have a clear view of their role within your business. They should feel like they are part of the team, and their ideas and input taken seriously.  Assure that their needs are addressed and that they are engaged and happy working for your company.

9. Explore new markets.

You need to explore new market opportunities even if you already have a loyal customer base. Build or enhance your online presence if you have not yet done so. Send emails or arrange an open house. Your business needs to evolve and extend its reach if you want to keep up with your competitors.

10. Check your work / life balance.

Take a break every once in a while. Spend time with your family and friends, and take some time to wind down and rejuvenate. Focus on your health and wellbeing of those closest to you. Also make sure your employees have time to do the same. Your hard work and dedication will be for naught if other aspects of your life are neglected.