I think business owners, managers and employees are about to let out a collective sigh. We did it! We made it through 2012. It has not been an easy year for several industries. As I look back on 2012, I realize many of my most challenging experiences were because of the unknown that lies in the future — the fear of not knowing the outcome of offering a new service, trying to fill an opening with the right person, making sure employees are happy in their current position.

So what do we do? We take deep breaths; we plan out as much as possible and buckle up for the ride.

I’ll admit it; I am one of those people that is more comfortable when I can safely see the end from the beginning. When I have a realistic goal whether business or personal, I feel comfortable, but how often does staying within your comfort zone lead to greatness?

There are several unknowns that we face every day. It can be stressful at times, right now we’re hearing a lot about the fiscal cliff, several business owners throughout the country and even here in Arizona are doing things simply out of fear. Acting out a fear is the wrong choice.

At times, we’ve all been guilty of making a rash decision based on fear. However, consistently making decisions out of fear will change you and your business.

What are you afraid of? What is your worst case scenario? Make a list. When you know what you’re afraid of, it doesn’t seem as scary anymore. If you don’t already have one and fear persists, find a business mentor that you both trust and respect. It helps to have someone you can share your concerns with.

Recently I was hiking in Tucson, the area was beautiful, and I was excited about my first solo hike in a while. I started on the path, and soon realized I couldn’t see the other side. The mountain trail had me twisting back and forth, and I constantly felt like I was going in the wrong direction. I felt uneasy. I recognized I had had some of these same thoughts and feelings previously, but they weren’t about hiking — they were about my business. Once I took inventory of my surroundings and what I needed to do to have a safe climb, I felt secure again. I knew I had to have faith to continue the trail and that it was going to lead me to the right place. The same goes for business, sometimes you have to take a step or two into the dark before we know we’re headed in the right direction and results come in.

Next time you find yourself and or your business in a fearful situation, take a moment to examine and take inventory on what you can and can’t change. Determine a path and more forward with faith. Remember, your future is as your faith.

For more information about Benjamin Franking Plumbing, visit benfranklinplumbingaz.com.