Allan Draper is the CEO and Co-Founder of proof. Pest Control. Scaling his own business from an idea to a thriving enterprise, Allan shares what it takes to see significant growth using visualization and goal-setting.

Take Time To Learn

Reading is one of the best forms of self-education for adults and should always be made a priority. Allan attributes part of his success in business to his dedication to reading business books from a young age. When you take the time to learn, you’re opening up the possibility to expand your world view of what you can actually achieve.

“As I started to read, I started to realize what was possible. It was weird because I don’t have any direct mentors per se, there were a couple of people who have helped but reading is what really allowed me to see what was possible. I always say my best mentors are the authors of books and people I have never met before.”

Take one thing that you have learned from a recent book and apply it to your life today. Use the knowledge that you receive from reading (or a mentor) and put it to use. Allan emphasizes that knowledge is power.

Visualize Your Goals

Having a vision ensures you have a clear sense of purpose and a mental picture of the future you desire. It is a practical guide for planning, goal-setting, and decision making. Allan believes that creating a trajectory for your company has more to do with finding your “why” than it does projecting your numbers.

“So there are the SMART Goals. It has to be specific, measurable and attainable and all of those things, but I think it has to be consistent with the company… The goals that you set are just a reflection of the company. Creating goals, it gives you a little bit of a road map.”

Visualize what you want, make sure your team is on the same page and keep track of your progress.

Find Your Why

Entrepreneurship is about so much more than simply starting a business. Find your purpose and acknowledge what makes you do what you do. The more successful you are the less money means, Allan says. Find what pushes you to keep going once you reach your goals.

“People ask me what my definition of success is and I always say it’s being able to control your time in a way that you see fit. You can do whatever you want… But when you visualize that before you have it, not only does it help put things in context but it gives you this motivation.”

For more information on Allan’s business and services, visit proof. Pest Control.