The final stages of the Tour de France is a very special time. The hard racing is over. The winners have been decided. All that remains is the ceremonial ride into Paris culminating with the final laps down the Champs Elysees. There is time to reminisce about the difficult stage rides that are now finished, toast the winners with a glass of champagne and pay respect to those who wear the coveted yellow jersey.

The final stages of your Tour de Profit are much the same. You’re put in your best efforts. The results are all but final. It is now time to celebrate your victories and give thanks for all the good things that happened for you throughout the year. There will be time to compete again next year, but for now, the focus is on celebration and appreciation.

While you ride hard throughout the entire year and focus your on your business, the final measure of success comes down to the satisfaction and successes you have in your personal life. It matters more to have improved your relationship with your spouse or significant other and your children than with your vendors or business associates. You’ve spend the majority of your time in and around your business, now is the time to focus on your family, your important relationships, and yourself.

No matter what your faith or religious preferences, there are times when you must take time to reflect on why you are here. Your business often becomes the beacon that guides your life and consumes your time. If you have a healthy balance throughout the year, then good for you! Unfortunately, most do not. If you are among those who run hard and fast all year long, then this stage is designed with you in mind. This is your time to step away from the business and enjoy the fruits of your hard work.

And, don’t forget to allow your team members to do the same thing. No one likes working for a Scrooge – in any sense of the word. Be considerate of what matters to others around you and give them the flexibility and freedom to take time to refresh and recharge. Nothing is better for that than spending free time with family and friends.

I hope you are proud of what you have accomplished during this year’s Tour de Profit. There will always be room for improvement, and the more you improve, the more you realize that the opportunity to get better is even greater!

Now is the time to rest up before you have to get back on the bike for next year’s ride. The course continues to get more difficult. The route changes each and every year. But the challenge still pulls you back. Like many business owners, it is not yet time to “retire” – but soon – particularly as you get better and better at your business so you can go out on top!

Here’s wishing you only the best as we bring this year’s race to a close. We’ll be ready to push you along as you gear up for next year. I look forward to riding along with you again as you continue your quest to win the Tour de Profit.

Contact Rich Allen, Business Coach at www.actioncoach.com/richallen or at richallen@actioncoach.com for more information on his business coaching programs.