Business – The lessons of 2022

For the past 30 years I have regularly run along Stanmore Bay beach to start my day, though recently that run has decreased in frequency and slowed considerably. 

While this early morning exercise is good for the body, I have often doubted its claimed positive effect on the mind. I find myself invariably conflicted between enjoyment of our wonderful landscapes, and wondering why the sand has gone again, whether that dog has positive intentions, or whether I will get home in the dry. Maybe this is the price of age and the way that the past can drive our current behaviour. Or maybe it’s just me.

In business, the advice is often to “learn to forget,” or “what has got you here won’t get you where you want to be.” But I totally reject the notion that the past should not affect our future direction and strategy. The insights we gained from the past year must be heeded in 2023 – whether they are linked to queuing for coffee in Ōrewa at the start of the year, or those same businesses struggling for staff, supplies and a way around cost increases.

In my work with businesses on the Coast over the past year, one word best summarises what 2022 was all about – the importance of resilience.

However, insights are worthless if they don’t result in different actions. So what actions do we need to take in our businesses to ensure the lessons of 2022 are heeded? Firstly, we need to lead with grit. The grit to go the extra mile, do the extra work, visit that extra prospect, have those difficult conversations. This is hard, but 2023 will demand it.

Secondly, we need make sure our business fundamentals are in place, that our foundations are sound and strong. From an efficient structure to the right people doing the right things, every part is important.

And, lastly, we need to continue to focus on strategy and the execution of it. There is a view that strategic planning is worthless in the face of uncertainty and change. I totally reject that view, as an effective use of strategy can ensure you explore possible scenarios, give some answers to possible future challenges, and provide you with a head start. It takes time and deep thought. Not many business owners do it. Those with grit and resilience, do.

So, the next time I amble on rocks rather than sand on Stanmore Bay Beach, maybe my thoughts should focus more on changing my footwear to better suit the changing environment.

Phil Pickford, founder of The Think Differently Group, has lived in Stanmore Bay for 30 years –“makes me almost a real Coastie”, he says. He has served on the board of trustees at Red Beach School and Ōrewa College as well as leading Coast Swim Club through its early years. His experience in managing and leading successful businesses includes working with local businesses for 17 years. His specialty areas are strategy, leadership and management development, coaching and advice – helping businesses grow “while their owners and leaders can still smell the flowers”.