Some readers have noticed that it has been quiet on my blog for the last few months and wondered if I was sick. I appreciate the questions — thankfully my health was fine.

The truth is I took most of July off and spent the time traveling in Europe with my family — with just a pinch of business. And since then, my time has been taken up with client engagements, so I decided that the blog writing had to take a back seat until my time eased up again. But that doesn’t mean I haven’t been thinking about business and life. So let me share a couple thoughts.

First, taking time for yourself is as important as working on your business. In August, after returning from my time off, I was refreshed and re-energized about my business. This was the first time in many years that I had stepped away from the business for this length of time — and it was worthwhile.

Second, I am more convinced than ever that leadership and customer service is lacking in the world today. As I reflected on my experiences in many countries I couldn’t help noticing the difference between great customer service and the rest. Regardless of country, great customer service still provides a clear point of differentiation between businesses.

Third, people, regardless of where they live still want to be treated with dignity and respect. And they are prepared to reward that treatment with their business.

So as you start contemplating your plans for 2011, make sure you are evaluating what you are doing with the customer in mind to differentiate your business and develop loyalty.