11 Things Small Business Owners Can Learn From Tiger

1. There Are No "gimmes" ? They count two-foot putts on the PGA Tour. Hold your small business team accountable for completing everything they commit to starting.

2. Set Priorities ? Like Jack Nicklaus before him, Tiger plans his schedule around peaking at the majors. Make time to prioritize your daily, weekly and monthly goals for maximum results.

3. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone ? The recent commercial with Tiger spoofing Bill Murray in "Caddyshack" shows he will take chances. Allow yourself to reach beyond your imagined limits.

4. Keep Smiling ? While Tiger certainly shows frustration throughout a round, he still flashes that brilliant smile. Remember to do the same, especially when your employees need to see it.

5. Eliminate Distractions ? When Tiger was young, his father would jiggle change, make noises and toss balls during his swing. Practice overcoming conditions that affect your productivity.

6. Always Finish What You Start ? Tiger gives his best every Sunday, regardless of whether or not he's in contention. Follow through on important initiatives, instead of allowing your daily responsibilities to consume them.

7. Take Time Away ? Tiger limits himself to a set number of events each year to maintain some form of a normal life. Be sure to pause and recharge yourself occasionally.

8. Practice ? Golf is "the magnificent game of skill," and Tiger excels because of the work he puts in between competitive rounds. Continue learning and growing to maximize your potential.

9. Priorities Change ? Some said Tiger's struggles in 2004 were because he discovered a significant other. Life is a series of stages, and it's all right to focus on what's important along the way.

10. Think Big ? When Tiger turned pro, his father predicted greatness. That's a lot of pressure, but he clearly prepared his son for the spectacular. As the leader of your small business?imagine the impossible.

11. You Can't Do It Alone ? Tiger continually works with a coach to perfect (read: change) his swing. Even the greatest need an objective opinion to help them excel.

Copyright © 2004 by Success Handler, LLC. All rights reserved.

The Coach, David Handler, is the founder of Success Handler, (http://www.successhandler.com), and specializes in helping small business leaders find clarity and take action. He understands the challenges of running a business, because he's been there ? as a small business owner, franchisee, franchisor, corporate leader and trainer. Much like sports coaches, his coaching will show you how to compete on a level playing field in your industry.