Rising Above the Obstacles

We recently assisted a colleague in achieving a simple goal, submitting paperwork to be paid. Why is it so challenging?

If you have ever worked on a project that is funded by a government agency, you likely understand the obstacles. Submit an invoice according to pages of directions. Then, find yourself a Notary, in person and face to face, something becoming more difficult in such digital times. If this is any type of building related work, you are a designer, an architect, a drone operator, an engineer, or a graphic artist, to name a few, you may be required to submit a lien waiver on the project. And do not forget an updated COI - Certificate of Insurance. Does the list ever end?

In many ways, being a small business owner is similar to the dog sport of Agility. Each dog tries to jump over through and around many types of objects in front of them to be the fastest finisher with the least amount of obstacle errors. In our example above, the goal is to complete the paperwork, do it without errors, and successfully get paid.

Perseverance can be the best friend of both a sporting dog and a business owner. Sometimes, seeking reassurance from the handler is all a dog needs to get to the finish line. Seeking support from your team members who are also running this payment gauntlet with you, can see you through to the end. We truly believe one day these Agencies will recognize the burden they impose on small businesses and seek alternate pathways to achieve their desired results while not forcing firms into a paper oblivion.

If you are facing a difficult path to payment, set goals along the way. Treat yourself with every obstacle you successfully navigate and make sure to buy yourself a small token of achievement at the end. You’ve likely earned it!

Be well.