Creating a successful business requires strategic planning, not just day-to-day busy-ness. The difference between success and mediocrity lies between running a business and growing a business. You must think ahead to what you want to accomplish in the long run.

What are your goals? What do you want to accomplish? What new markets do you plan to explore? Do you plan to expand in any way?

Don’t get lost in the day to day running of your business and miss striving for something larger. You must enjoy the journey more than the destination. Change and evolution are a natural part of life. Nothing can remain stagnant and survive.

Never rush into anything without a game plan. You must be able to act on your plans in an organized, step-by-step manner. Whether you are building a house or building a business, a strong foundation must be laid.

Outline how you plan to make a transition from your current job. Will you operate full or part-time? What business hours will you keep?

Create a step-by-step time-line. Include a financial time-line. (If you don't learn to manage what you've got, the universe cannot give you more.)  What do you want to accomplish in the first 6 months? What is your projected income? How much do you expect to grow or expand in this time? Take baby steps at first. What do you plan to accomplish overall in the first year? Over the next 5 years?

Also outline a short term and long-range marketing plan with an annual budget. This is where research will pay off. How have other successful businesses accomplished the task of getting their name out to the public? How did they promote themselves? What advertising and promotional venues are available to you in your region?

Imagine your business plan as a blueprint. Researching and methodically thinking out each element of your business plan is the bricks and mortar of your foundation. The ultimate success of your business depends on how well you do this, and how thorough you attend to each detail. This is the only way to ensure that you are going to have a strong, viable enterprise.

Take things one step at a time. This keeps you from being overwhelmed by the work or thinking that you are not capable of achieving your goal. You are less likely to make mistakes or leave out any critical elements that could jeopardize your success.

Lists are a critical part of this process. There is something very motivating about organizing thoughts, ideas and problems into a concrete form. And there is nothing more satisfying than checking items off a list once they have been completed.

If necessary, break your lists down into smaller itemized lists. Use an appointment calendar to create a timeline for your project. Transcribe projects or errands that are time sensitive or date-specific into appropriate dates.

Challenge yourself to complete at least one item from your list each week. This way you will break goals and tasks down into readily achievable components. You will find it easier to focus on one priority at a time without succumbing to distractions.

Periodically re-define your vision. As time goes on, you may have to fine-tune your business plan to eliminate potential problem areas. Be flexible and adaptable. No decision is carved in stone. Plans may have to change as circumstances change.