Yes, I’m still out on the golf course. And yes, it’s cold, wet, and a bit grim—but here I am, teeing off, mud and all. Playing golf in winter comes with its own unique challenges: juggling a rain jacket, managing slippery paths, and dodging roped-off greens. It’s not quite the idyllic summer golf I dream of, but it’s still the game I love.
Sound familiar?
It should, because running a business can feel exactly the same.
When I’m out there in less-than-ideal conditions, the game becomes less about my swing and more about managing the environment: adjusting to the slippery mud, the damp air, and the limited visibility. I’m reminded of how easy it is to focus so much on the conditions that I lose sight of why I’m there in the first place—to play the game, enjoy myself, and maybe even win.
Running a business is a lot like this. You start out with big plans and clear goals, but the day-to-day conditions—unexpected expenses, a team in flux, shifting markets—can pull your focus. And if you’re not careful, you might find yourself managing your circumstances instead of steering your business towards success.
The Plateau Problem
On the golf course, I’ve hit a bit of a plateau. I’m not playing badly, but I’m not improving, either. And why? Because I’ve been focusing on what’s comfortable—practising in perfect weather, wearing the right gear, and swinging from ideal positions. But real growth happens when I challenge myself to adapt to the less-than-ideal.
The same goes for your business. Maybe you’ve implemented a new system, taken a training course, or set some big goals for the year. But when the rain starts pouring (figuratively speaking), do you have a plan to keep playing?
Managing the Business Environment
Here’s a common scenario: You’ve decided 2025 is the year to focus on weekly management meetings. You set the agenda, schedule the time, and show up—ready to lead. But Julie from accounts is buried in VAT returns, Tim from sales is on a call, and Marcus the marketer is panicking over a drop in conversions. The meeting is chaotic, and you’re left wondering why you bothered.
Or maybe you’ve invested in new software to streamline your finances. You’ve spent hours with your accountant setting it up, only to find that no one on your team knows how to use it. Frustrated, you revert to the spreadsheets you were trying to leave behind.
Strike a chord (or should that be – a ball!)?
These are the muddy paths and low-visibility shots of business. The good news is that with the right approach, you can manage these conditions and stay focused on your goals.
Building Resilience in Business
Resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges; it’s about learning to manage them. Here are a few lessons from the golf course that you can apply to your business:
- Anticipate the Environment: Just like I pack my waterproofs for a winter round, you need to plan for less-than-ideal business conditions. Are you prepared for cash flow hiccups or staff shortages? Build contingencies into your strategy.
- Practise in the Rain: Don’t just prepare for sunny days. Challenge your team to tackle tough scenarios during training sessions. For example, run a meeting simulation where half the participants are late or unprepared. It’s a great way to build adaptability.
- Simplify Your Focus: When you’re juggling umbrellas and golf clubs, it’s easy to lose sight of the game. In business, strip back the noise. Identify your top three priorities each quarter and commit to them.
- Accept Temporary Setbacks: Sometimes, you’ll lose a ball in the mud or have a meeting that goes off the rails. That’s okay. Learn from it, adjust, and keep going.
Foundations for Success in 2025
This year, make managing your business environment a priority. Start by joining our Foundations of Success course (you can bag your free place using the code ATVIP at checkout), where we’ll show you how to:
- Build a resilient strategy that works in any condition.
- Manage your team effectively, even on the busiest days.
- Stay focused on your long-term goals while handling daily challenges.
Think of it as your rain jacket for the game of business. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to break through a plateau, this course is designed to help you thrive—no matter the weather.
Final Thoughts
When I’m on the golf course, I remind myself that the rain will pass, the mud will dry, and the sun will eventually come out. The same is true for your business. Challenges are temporary, but the skills you build to overcome them will last a lifetime.
So, let’s step onto the fairway of 2025 together, ready to manage whatever comes our way. And if you’re not sure where to start, sign up for Foundations of Success (just use the code ATVIP to remove the fee and get your place for free). Let’s make this your best year yet.
