2009 has been the year I really invested in myself and my business. On January 2, I started looking for a business coach to help me. For a number of months I worked with AssistU founder and Virtual Assistant coach- Stacy Brice.  Not long after that began, I won a three month small business coaching program scholarship with the amazing small business coach Allison Babb. We met originally when she was looking to hire a VA. Between these two coaches I got really clear on my strengths and target market. Investing the time and money was a very smart decision.

Like many small business owners I listen to lots of teleseminars and read a ton of information by successful internet marketers. At the beginning of the summer someone new came onto my radar- Kelly O’Neil. It was at a time when I was determined to take a significant leap forward with my marketing efforts. I jumped at the offer for a new 6 month coaching program. The many coaching sessions, mastermind groups and calls each month have solidified some great ideas for other side businesses, and I am enjoying the support as I create new offerings.  One of the things I have added to my business is speaking and teaching small business owners who are stuck in the 20th Century with technology. I have, therefore, developed solutions that teach them about current internet and social media marketing techniques. This works really well with my current VA clients, too.

Last week I decided to go to my first coaching retreat. While it was not on my list for 2009, the event very quickly was decided upon, and travel plans were made. It was explained to me this way: do you want to take baby steps in your business, or do you want to leap up the ladder of success? The answer was obvious to me, and I know the retreat will be an amazing opportunity to connect with other small business owners who are growing their businesses, too.

So, what are you doing to leap up the ladder of success? How have you invested in yourself this year?

As a work at home Mom for the last 13 years, one thing has made a difference for how I feel about myself. I always -without exception- dress down to my shoes (as the Flylady calls it.) It may be lunchtime before I get my exercising and shower in, but if you saw me, I’d have on decent clothes, shoes, jewelry, makeup, and my hair done. My mom would be proud that I’m likely to have on lipstick, too.

Okay – it’s not rocket science, but after 3 decades in a corporate world I know that I perform better when I am “ready.” If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you’ll do better work. I’m ready to dash out of the door to the store, or to a client’s office, and don’t have to delay a trip or feel embarrassed if I run into someone.  I do it even if no one else is around and I know I’m not going anywhere.

What do YOU do when no one is looking?