But how do you start?
Step One: Create a vision of what you want the firm to look like. You can't know where you want it to go, if you don't start with a clear vision.
Step Two: Overlay your current work on this new vision and find out what needs to change to get you from here to there. Even if that vision shifts, you need to start taking steps in your current reality to get you going in the right direction.
Step Three: Do an assessment program to find out what you could do better or differently and start testing the vision. What is working well? What do you not yet understand?
Step Four: Develop a team of outside references and support from attorneys, even mentors. Find out who might have resources you can draw on for these kinds of experts. Even clients can offer recommendations.
Step Five: Understand that failure is good. As you start to put this new vision into action, know that trying something new and having it not work is better than not trying. You can learn from what doesn't work and refine the process.
Step Six: Build a niche of people with whom you enjoy working. Make sure the people on your team, as well as the clients you cultivate, are people who make your life positive. It should not be just about how much money they have in their pot.
