In the movie Downsizing, the main character, played by Matt Damon, "gets small" in order to appreciate the many big and meaningful things in his work and life. Author Kindra Hall advises us to "change the story" in 2018 and challenge our own beliefs. That was, in fact, the main point of the (ironically) long and rambling film. 

TV shows and real estate media are heralding the tiny house movement. You can apply some of the principles to your business life as well. Get small in business in order to grow big.

What does that mean? How do you do it?

  1. Make a (short) list of no more than five key factors that have led to your business success so far. Eliminate the ones that are no longer working and focus on those key activities, connections, and processes that will lead to growth.
  2. Perfect the skill of saying no. Small business advisor Marla Tabaka counsels you to keep your "no" simple and direct rather than offering up long explanations. 
  3. As you wrap-up your end-of-year financials, be brutal in eliminating expenses that do not seem to be resulting in growth. Be careful not to cut too deep into marketing or talent spending, however.
  4. Consider cost-effective alternatives to expensive overhead, like co-working. 
  5. Utilize technology to simplify tasks. If you still have too much paper in your life, figure out ways to digitize that information and systems. Remember, paper takes up space!
  6. If you need help de-cluttering your business and your life, consider hiring a professional organizer. The National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) has members who focus specifically on business streamlining. 

Thinking small and simple will free-up space in your head and environment to cultivate new growth. Bigger is only better when it applies to your bottom line.