At this rate, the blog looks more like a semi-annual event than any kind of an update. Four months since the last update - so what's been going on?

I have continued to develop my consulting business, trying to established a brand name for my practice. I've discovered, as no doubt many before me have, that being a one man band presents a difficult challenge. While you are marketing your product you can't be doing any assignments, and while doing, you aren't marketing. The leads to peaks and troughs from an income point of view. There are a number of projects that I have been working on, others that I have been asked to look at, and a few that I think will have value, but are my own ideas. Way too much for me to deal with on my own, and as a result there hasn't been enough progress on any of them.

VISION WITHOUT ACTION IS DAYDREAMING

So how have I dealt with the situation?
1. Stopped talking about my ideas with other people until I am ready to convert them into reality. I have a recent example. I have been trying to get something off the ground since December and one firm that is a friendly competitor that I had mentioned it to, took the idea and executed. Initially I was upset, then I realised that it was a good idea and if I'm not going to get it done, someone else will.
2. Explored a way of increasing my ability to deliver on projects. I am not in a position to take on permanent staff, so I have formed alliances with a number of people that are in my industry, but looking for work. I have partnered up with them on specific projects. They are doing the core work on the projects, but I am setting the direction, monitoring the progress, and will ensure that the final project meets the quality standards I expect.
3. Tried to find the infrastructure. I am in the legal due diligence stage of purchasing a company that has people and premises. Most importantly, it is a neglected company with an established brand name. The current owner wants the company to continue and is being very reasonable about the terms. When acquired next month, it will give me a productivity boost and won't be a financial drain.

All of this is coalescing into an action plan and environment that will provide a platform for me to take the business forward. Eight months down the road, and it has been a long, tough slog - but looks worth it!