Hard work will not give you success always, think smart

1. Start setting goals : The power of goal setting will help you to gain success. Unless you have a plan, you'll never arrive at your destination. Start with the more obtainable goals, to build your motivation and confidence (mid term goals). You have to set a time line for achieving every goal. Write a list of mid term goals that you'll need to undertake to reach the final goal.

2. Ask a client for a referral : On successful completion of the project, ask the client for a feedback, followed by a simple request to recommend you to others.

3. Focus on profit, not turnover : Profit is more important than turnover. A company making $10000 profit from a turn over of $100000 is better than a company having a turnover of $ 1 million making a profit of $10000.

You can double your profits at one tenth of the effort and risk. Slightly increase the hourly service rate, reduce overheads, letting less profitable clients go, and focusing on your high profit activities.

4. Learn something new about business : Talk to your peers in the neighboring business centre to learn a lot of simple business techniques. Read books on management and business, visit blogs and web sites to boost your business knowledge.

5. Take time for yourself : Work smarter in office and enjoy more time with family. Turn off your mobile phone and go for a family outing at the weekend.