If you’ve been tuning in for a while, you’ve heard me discuss the many contributing factors to building value in your company.

I’ve touched on attributes like growth potential, differentiation, financial performance, diversification of people, suppliers and employees, but you know what these all boil down to?

The SVO Model of Sustainability and Growth…

As some of you are considering and refining your goals for this year, I want to ask you…do you have a goal to grow your business?

As business owners, ‘growth’ can be a loaded word.

I hear some saying - yes, they’re all about the growth and that’s their focus.

I hear others saying - no, I like my business the way it is, I’m not looking to grow at all.

And also saying - growth means more work from me and I just don’t have more to give.

Maybe there’s even another camp here that isn’t reflected. In spite of what you may think about growth in your own business I think it’s worth deconstructing what growth means.

In this series of understanding the different (eight be exact) drivers of your business’ value, today’s driver is really about what the future holds for your business.

First, I want to acknowledge all you’ve accomplished to date - building something from nothing, or taking an existing business and building it to the point where you are now. I know you’re not finished yet, but, it’s important to acknowledge how far you’ve come.

Congratulations!

Revel in the past rewards, accomplishments, awards, client success stories, and fulfillment you’ve enjoyed to this point.

Having a great history is one thing and while this can provide a wonderful sense of pride and fulfillment, someone interested in taking over your business in the future is not only thinking about where you’ve come, but how much is possible in the future.

In other words, your company’s growth potential.