Business lessons from nature

Over the weekend it was 65 degrees outside of Philadelphia — a far cry from last week when temperatures plummeted and we received yet another two inches of snow. This week, there may be another Nor’easter bearing down on the east coast – Washington through Maine is preparing for even more snow! But as experience shows, the weather can teach us some valuable lessons about our selves and our businesses.

The first lesson that can be taken from experience with the weather is to give yourself credit for knowing what you know. Over the course of this winter, the east coast has had record-breaking snowfall – more snow than some parts have seen in over 100 years! But the fact is, most people that live here take it in stride because we know how to deal with it. By now, we’re all prepared with the essentials we need when power goes out – flashlights, car chargers for cell phones, and even generators. We know to keep a fully stocked kitchen in case driving isn’t possible because of downed trees or icy roads. But even when we have to drive, we’ve driven in so much snow and ice over the past few months that we know how to handle our cars carefully despite the perils. In short, we’re fully trained experts!

Take this lesson, and apply it to your business. Many times you’ve faced a challenge, perhaps something unpredictable, like a drastic change with a client or supplier. On a day-to-day basis, you use what you already know to solve problems like a pro. But as business grows, it’s important to be ready for new challenges (i.e., new opportunities to learn). Are you and your team ready for the unexpected? Do you have the processes ready and are you stocked with the right provisions and tools? Has your training prepared you to conquer the challenge? Running a business well is in itself a challenge. By being prepared and staying flexible, each uphill battle becomes easier, just as coping with snowstorms gets easier once you have the hang of it.

A breath of fresh air is always just around the corner.

Luckily, everything in business isn’t about navigating storms. The second lesson we can learn from the weather is related to spring. Even in the darkest, coldest days of winter, the promise of a fresh start in spring is never too far away. The vernal equinox occurred last week and the daytime hours are longer, temperatures are climbing and the gray winter will soon be replaced with the beautiful bright colors of milder days. Spring’s fresh start almost magically inspires people to spend hours or days on spring cleaning, welcoming fresh air and a clean slate.

Again, this lesson may appear in your business. When you get in a routine like winter, it may be time to shake things up. Are you looking at a new approach for the business, or an opportunity for growth? Are you and your employees doing some spring cleaning – consolidating files, archiving tax documents, and cleaning the office to get ready for the coming year? Maybe you’re even taking the time to review processes and technology that need revamping? It’s a perfect time to bring the renewing energy of spring into your company.

Be ready for whatever your business will weather.

Whatever you’re doing this season, dress right and get prepared so you can really enjoy the weather. Price Turner CFOs is here to help you respond to emergencies when they arise. But before they do, let’s review your processes, make sure your technology and people are working together efficiently, and provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to shovel out of the proverbial blizzard or plant new seeds in the bright sunshine!