A portfolio business – sounds great, doesn’t it? And something to which we might all aspire. After all, if one section isn’t doing as well as anticipated, you can give it some TLC, or if that doesn’t work, a good kick up the bottom to get it performing as it should. And obviously, there’s no panic because, in the background, the other areas of your ‘portfolio’ are ticking away nicely. 

 So, we’re all good then? Well, only if you have all your ducks in a row. Personally, I noticed a few months back not only did I not have my ducks in a row, I honestly couldn’t remember when I’d last seen them, lined up or otherwise. Yes, indeedy, I’d made the classic mistake (and I say classic because this was not in any way the first time I’d done it) of focusing on what I enjoy doing – writing, editing, creating products, networking, mentoring, public speaking whilst ignoring what I don’t like because I’m no good at it. 

 This was brought home during a meeting with the delightful Sarah Fletcher @Mushroom Souffle, during which I  showed her my diagrammatic business portfolio. She visibly, if politely recoiled, then asked some relevant questions on income, sales figures, best-performing outlets, profit margins and other mildly baffling matters. 

 It became clear to me that not only had I misplaced some ducks and dropped the ball,  but I wasn’t seeing the wood for the trees – and there are times when only a mixed metaphor will do! Does anyone else feel they’re guilty of such sins?