Can we learn from The Biggest Loser?

Okay, I know -- the last thing we need is a blog about a TV show, but be patient. I really don't watch that much TV, but I really enjoy NBC's "The Biggest Loser" program. I find it motivating with quite a lesson. Some thoughts.

1. It amazes me that people, who are extremely obese, are willing to put on a pair of shorts and step on scale and put their weight on display on network TV.

What if you were able to "strip" down your business to it's shorts and truly look at what's wrong? All those blemishes you have been trying to hide would stand out. Chances are your problems can not be blamed on the government, the chamber, the competition, or anything else you might be focusing on. The first step to change is owning the problem.

2. The contestants change everything to improve. They leave their families, friends and home to live at the ranch so they can work out. They change their diet, start working out, and focus 100% of their attention to losing weight.

Is your business stuck in the "we have always done it that way" mentality? The insanity definition comes into play here -- you can't expect different outcomes by doing the same thing.

Maybe it's making personnel changes that you have put off, investing in more training, changing your advertising, or adding product. The "we have always done it that way" will get you "what you have always gotten."

3. Accountability is a huge part of the show -- weekly weigh-ins and people going home. What accountability do you have on you, your staff, your management team? There is an old saying in the sales game, "Your clients get better -- when you get better" That saying will apply to your business as well. The better you serve your customers -- the better 2009 you will enjoy.

Most of us will never be on network TV. However, if you truly have a big goal for your business, I would encourage you to learn from "The Biggest Loser" program.

1. Be willing to truly see your blemishes and admit to what needs to change.
2. Make the changes.
3. Keep track of your progress and stay dedicated to the goal.

Our next blog will focus on what I think was one of Branson's biggest mistakes. Stay Tuned!