Here in the US we are getting ready to celebrate the Fourth of July - Independence Day - the noisiest of all of our holidays. July Fourth is all about celebrating with loud marching music, firecrackers and fireworks as from coast to coast people gather together and honor the “founding” of the United State of America.

July Fourth is a great example of what can happen when a group of people is committed to an innovative idea. Back in 1776, the founding fathers were willing to be different.  They were willing to take an idea and turn it into something real. And, most important, they were willing to take a stand for something they believed in.

And, because of this, they stood out from the crowd. They are remembered for their courage, determination and dedication.  And they began a movement that changed the world as they knew it at the time.

So, how does this apply to you and rising above the Noise Factor?  Well, I believe one of the keys to the founding fathers’ success is that they not only took actions, they took those actions based on a strong foundation made of bottom-line beliefs, like freedom, independence and basic human rights.

And when you have a solid foundation to stand on, choices about directions, priorities, and actions are easier to make. 

So, what do you take a stand for?  What is the foundation on which you have built your business?  As you think about how your business offer is unique and how you can express that uniqueness, is there a basic ideal or vision that guides you?

Today, let’s take a look at your business foundation.  Instead of thinking of actions you can take to stand out from the Noise Factor, let’s look at what you are actually taking a stand for.  

First, read the following sentence and fill in the blank with the first thing that pops into your head.

Through my business, I _________________________________________.

Is what you put in the blank something that you believe in strongly? Is this really the foundation for your business?  Or is it something you have adopted in response to today’s business climate and/or because of what others are doing?

Now, think about what you really want to take a stand for.  What is it that you want your clients and customers to “get” about you and your business?

Sit with this for a moment.  Then fill in the blank in the following sentence.

Through my business, I take a stand for ___________________________.

Every once in a while during the next several days, read this second sentence. Does it communicate what you want to give your clients and customers?  Does it feel “good” to you?  Can you easily relate this statement to what you are doing in your business?

If so, then this foundation is serving you right now for where you are in your business. And, as with all things, it may change as you and your business grow and evolve.

One more really cool thing…

When you consistently focus on the foundation on which your business stands, you naturally express those values in your dealings with other people, decisions are easier to make, and you get better results.

Just Imagine That!