Running your own business requires that you be able to wear many hats ... sometimes all at the same time (... which can be an interesting fashion statement.) You have to be the CEO one minute ... then the Creative Director the next ... then Office Manager ... and of course ... Dog Walker. This can be overwhelming and at times paralyzing. These past few months I have been stretch very thin with trying to do all of these jobs.

So today I'm going to take action ... and ask for help. I think that this is some of the best business advice I could give any entrepreneur. To be successful you have to focus on what you to best and the give up a little control and trust other people to do their jobs. Though I can be a little stubborn ... understatement ... and have a hard time admitting that I can do everything and give up a little control ... I want my business to be a success and this requires asking for help and admitting I'm not superwoman.

So as CEO I have decided to have the first official ScoutDog Studios strategic retreat this week ... Today is the creative day to work on product development ideas and the greeting card line ... tomorrow is the financial strategy day and setting up the new business software and getting started on taxes .... Thursday and Friday will be business plan research and writing day.

By the end of the week the goal is to have all of the finances organized, a basic business plan outlined, calendar/timeline for the National Stationery Show, goals for 2004 events/product development/licensing/distribution, and designs for the greeting card line and products. If all goes well Friday afternoon will be reserved for yoga and margarita happy hour.

Though this seems like a lot, it helps to write it out. Being your own boss makes it easy to miss your self-imposed deadlines so making it public makes me more accountable.