Entrepreneurs often hit plateaus as their business transitions from the start up phase into the next growth phase.  It might be that sales growth is stalled, or that more and more procedural tasks seem to pile up.  It might that the business owner is starting to feel a little burned out.

But plateaus can offer a good opportunity for improvement. Here are several steps help you push through to the next level:

 Find experts

 You can find experts in every field or industry where you might need help. There are experts in every field, industry, hobby or any area you need help with. Seeking advice from others who have been there, may help find a short cut.

 Ramp up your reading

 The web offers a huge window on knowledge and research via Google will often locate a fire hose of good information.  Find PowerPoints to jump start your own presentation, solutions you have not thought of, ideas to take to the bank.  Read a good business book, in fact, read a good business book or journal at least every month.

Network with Peers

Find someone on LinkedIn in a similar but non competing role and network.  Build an Advisory Board of like-minded professionals to share information and ideas.

Brainstorm new Ideas

 Spend some time brainstorming new ideas to implement. Break out of the rut and do some in-depth thinking about tasks, procedures, objectives. 

 Work Harder

Force yourself to do the things you have been putting off.  De-clutter. Clearing your desk may make you feel refreshed and ready for a new challenge.

Work Smarter

Sometimes, working harder isn’t the solution, but working smarter is. Try focusing on #1 priorities for longer periods of time, and refuse to allow the #2s and #3s to intrude for a while.  Work these productivity stretches into your daily timetable.

Look at Your Productivity

How much are things like email, social media and consistent interruptions impacting your day? If distraction is adding to your inability to get past the plateau, work on a plan to eliminate or reduce it. A simple change, such as checking email and social media sites just a few times a day, can be just what you need to get past a plateau.

Call In Reinforcements

We all need a little help from time to time. If your plateau is caused by simply too much on your plate, get rid of something. As an Entrepreneur you are – or should be – the Finder. If you’re not finding new business and improving customer relationships then you’re failing.  Partner up with trusted advisors – like a B2BCFO to make your workload more manageable.