When it comes to running a business, there is so much to think about. Organizing and keeping on top of daily operations, marketing, bookkeeping, customer service, employees, vendors, etc. It all pretty much takes up a business owner's time. These are definitely important areas to focus on but when have you (or have you ever) made a point of literally stepping outside of your business and into the shoes of your customer to see how your business is perceived?

The best learned lessons come not from your success, but from your failures. Actually, the biggest failure is not learning from your mistakes.

Mistakes come and go. But certain mistakes remain constant simply because you are circulating the same habits that perpetuate the same mistakes. Then you wonder, “What went wrong” or “Why does this always happen to me?”

Tired of being a face in the crowd? Done with the "You’re-a-wall-flower" treatment?

Before you consciously make efforts to get noticed, the first thing you need to do is figure out who should be noticing you.

Who REALLY matters? Who do you want (or need) to impress?

Knowing this single piece of information will save you lots of energy, time and work. Why would you want to be noticed by someone selling sand when you live in the desert? Think about this …

Being the boss can be difficult at times. Making the tough decisions, giving people a second chance, being held accountable, taking responsibility, and being unpopular all go along with the territory. But what does it take to be the female leader in charge?

You may ask yourself daily if people will ever give you the benefit of the doubt, trust your instincts and let you lead. If so, then here are 5 characteristics that will help engage and connect with people you need to lead.