Getting to the "next level" is a mantra on the lips of most business people these days. But what is the "next logical level"for any of our businesses? Could we be on the right level and not know it? Is the next level a matter of more sales, more people, more products or services? Is the next level about being bigger or better, or both?

While I am certain that the grass is greener on the next level, I recognize the danger in this kind of thinking. In 35 years in business, I have seen people destroy their businesses chasing greener grass that just wasn't right for them. And I have learned that much of the pursuit is about comparison not excellence and about losing sight of the core focus that made your business so special to begin with.

Whenever I work with someone on forging a strategic plan for their business, or their life, I ask them to tell me something they would never do Their answers can be really comic, but that's OK. I record their answers and store them away on my database. Sooner or later, they will come to me with an idea that will take them to the "next level,"or so they think. If the idea is congruent with their focus, on what makes them great, I try to help them focus on next steps that carry the banner forward. If the idea is just about greener grass, quick dollars, or something discordant with their makeup, I ask them if what they are proposing isn't like that one thing they'd never do. It usually stops them in their tracks.

Thoughts To Results: Does your "next level"require a change of circumstance, or perspective? Are you at your next level and don't know it? Ask, before acting, whether the "next level" being contemplated is really consistent with what you want long-term. Then, follow your heart.