Brush off your Brand: 12 Steps for the New Decade Second Step- Clear the Decks

After completing step 1, "Reviewing the Past," it is time to move forward.

2. Clear the Decks

Look outside. The trees have dropped their leaves to make room for new growth. Birds have migrated for the winter and will return to build new nests.

With the new year and decade approaching, you need to be ready. The first step, even before planning, is to clean out what you no longer need. I have been going through all the shelves in my office and dumped a lot of stuff that no longer serves me.  I will continue to do so into the new year so new business can come my way. This used to seem silly to me; why should cleaning out the old be necessary?  I found out that when the clutter of the old surrounded me, my mind was not as prepared to see and take advantage of what was coming.

Is your office cleared for action?  I still need to find a place for business cards that cover one corner of my desk.  Here are a few other tasks that you can accomplish quickly:

• Have new notepads ready for 2010 and finish up those used this year.

• Organize your computer application CDs and other computer-based supplies
• Check to see that all my pens work and my pencils have erasers
• Organize any papers laying around from current and finished projects 
• Make sure you have a supply of business cards and other branded items to do business
• Clear our and archive files for completed projects on your computer
• Delete unnecessary email
• Check connections to and from your computer
• Store what you don’t need

With a clean and cleared space in your office, you can be ready for new business and as you work on brushing off your brand, you will be better prepared to go through the steps in an uncluttered environment.