This is the crux of several client issues that I’ve been working through this week: While each client has a great idea, all of it is in their head, on sticky notes, and buried in emails and notepads – not exactly the formula for success, as there’s no structure. Three times this week alone I’ve been asked to work up a coaching plan and marketing plan, but each time when I ask, “Do you have a business plan?”, I get a blank stare or response followed by, “Do I really need one, I’m not taking a loan to start this venture.” For some budding entrepreneurs, they believe putting a shingle out is good enough or “if I have a nice brochure, people will gobble up my widgets.” Not so fast! When you’re taking a long journey, most will agree you need a roadmap. Business adventures are exactly the same, and your business plan is that map; without it, you can expect aimless, misdirected results, not to mention a considerable waste of your startup resources.