The lessons learned in Collins' book is focus doing ONE thing really well, be passionate about what you're doing, know the profit drivers in your business, and you'll generate higher income and profits.

Think about a hedgehog for a moment. His only defense against his predators (which would be your competitors) is to raise his quills. He outwits his predators and 'wins' by doing one thing very well—defending himself.

You can 'act like a hedgehog' by making sure you focus on exercising your natural strengths and talents in your business---and have other people do the things you're not really good at doing.

For example, if you are great at speaking and writing, but are not very good at bookkeeping---write and speak, but have someone else play with and crunch the numbers.

The Hedgehog Concept contains three important points. To become successful, you must only do what you:

1. Are passionate about doing.

2. Can be the best in the world at doing

3. Can make money, increase your income, and profit while doing it

Without all three factors working together, you are doomed to mediocrity, and being a 'non-player' in your market.

Take a look at your own profession and single out the people who are very successful. Why do you think they are successful? I bet you'd find these people apply their time and energy doing activities they have a natural talent for doing.

If you apply the principles of the Hedgehog Concept, it becomes clear this is a formula you can follow to figure out where you excel. The result is you will increase your income and be more profitable in business!

Finding Your Personal Hedgehog Concept

You can identify your Hedgehog Concept by doing a 'Personal Hedgehog Inventory'. The great thing about doing a Personal Hedgehog Inventory is it tells you to "do" certain activities; "stop" doing some activities; and "continue" with other activities. This process helps you confront the truth about:

* What you are passionate about

* What you have a natural talent for doing

* How you can make money, increase income, and profit

By applying the Personal Hedgehog Inventory, you will identify a path to greater joy and passion in your life, as well as increase your income and success in business!

Copyright 2009 Bonita L. Richter