Every time I hear the words strategic plan, I get this pit in the bottom of my stomach!  Where do I find the time to contemplate the future of our business, when I can hardly keep up with the 100+ e-mails I receive on any given day?  I know, if you don’t focus on the future, you won’t be around in the future http://www.inc.com/multimedia/slideshows/content/staples-tips_pagen_1.html. 

Change, however small, is synonymous with success as long as you mix in flexibility.  So, taking the time to assess your business once a day, week, month or year, or all of the above, depending on what aspect of your business you’re evaluating, is important.  You may just find out that your business is right on track, or that it has evolved and change is needed http://www.allbusiness.com/sales/4010458-1.html.

Taking the time to look at the everyday aspects of your business is important in order to keep your business on track http://www.giftandhomechannel.com/channel/vod/168/.  As discussed in my blog last week, back to school time is a great occasion to focus on the months ahead.  Bringing in new merchandise is obviously key to an independent retailers strategy, and in this highlighted video, http://www.giftandhomechannel.com/channel/vod/281/, Susie Homemaker discusses ‘what are the hot trends this fall, both in product and color’.

However, we all know that just because something is “hot”, doesn’t make it right for your store.   Key to your inventory selection is being in tune with your customer’s wants and needs while staying true to your brand proposition.  Part of this evaluation should be, is your business still making you smile?  I know that your passion is what got you invested in owning and operating a retail store, so at the end of the day, shouldn’t that be a part of your strategic plan?