Life Is Like a Box Of Chocolates...

There's a big difference between thinking tactically and thinking strategically.  The former is "what am I going to do to get more business in the door today".  The latter is "how can I think about and approach my business from a new perspective that will feed me leads over the long haul". 

Thinking Strategically
Taking a strategic approach to your business requires a change in mindset.  You need to stop thinking about the details and start focusing on the bigger picture.  You also need to stop thinking small.  Don't look for someone to sponsor your next seminar, look for someone to sponsor a whole year's worth of seminars who can not only pay for the room, but can also fill it.  Stop worrying about how to bring in the next lead and think more about how you can get a steady stream of leads coming in the door and put systems in place to nurture them until they are ready to move.

It's WHO You Know
Think about what connections you can make that will put you into the next strata of business.  It's WHO you know, not how much you know that often makes the difference between just getting by and flying high.  Think also about how you can create and nurture new connections. 

Don't Be Afraid to Ask/Call
A few years ago, I called Chellie Campbell, the author of a book that I enjoyed, to encourage her to come to the east coast to teach her program.  I wanted to take it and I didn't want to fly back and forth every week to California to do it.  From that phone call and subsequent emails we've had over the intervening years, we've formed a friendship.  She never did come to the east coast, but next month when I'm in Los Angeles, we're going to try to make a connection for coffee so we can finally meet in person.  But the point is that I've called many authors over the years whose books I've enjoyed.  I've also called many business owners with potential joint venture or cross promotional opportunites.  Most of my calls have been greeted with a positive response.  A few ignored me.  That's fine.  I didn't care.  Because the ones I made a connection with have been the source of a lot of good business for me. 

Make The Call
The same can be true for you if you're not afraid to pick up the phone.  Come on.  What's the worst that can happen?  You say "I'd love to make you some money" or "I loved your book" or "I love where your company is going and I'd like to help you get there" and they say, "No thanks"?  For one, it's not likely they would say that.  For two, who cares?  If they say "No", move on to the next call.  SOMEONE will be very happy to hear from you.