I’ve been in business for a little over 2 years now (wow has it really been that long? Smh.) – and one thing that I’ve noticed from my clients is that they lack the motivation to grow in entrepreneurship. Let’s be completely honest and admit that starting a business is difficult but owning and growing a business can be pure hell at times. You’re constantly trying to figure out what’s working, what can be done better and where to budget all of the money to do everything that’s in your head. It can be an absolute nightmare – but it’s what we want to do. At the end of the day, entrepreneurs have a passion and vision that simply can’t be filled by working a 9-5. And with all this in mind, it bares the question, what the hell are you waiting for? Want to try something different for your business? Ready to expand your brand? Found an office space that is perfect? Shit, are you ready to quit your day job and become a full-time entrepreneur? In the words of Nike, just do it! And if you don’t know how or where to start, here are 5 tips that should give you the kick in the ass that I needed when I got to this point of my career.
1. Stop comparing yourself to other brands
Social media is the technology that links us to our audience, but it also gives us a direct view of what everyone else is doing in their business. It’s a completely natural feeling to measure your accomplishments to those of your peers (I’ve done it plenty of times). But what you can’t do is stay in that state of mind. Social media is pretty and paints every business and brand in a positive light. But the truth of the matter is that they are struggling just like you. Every business experiences peaks and valleys – and to be honest, some of you may be in a valley right now (it’s ok! It will pass with time). You can’t compare yourself to someone when you don’t even know their whole story. Think about it, you may be doing better than them in reality.
2. Take time to actually put your plans on paper
I literally have a million and one ideas floating around in my head. I mean, inspiration hits at any time and the brilliance just strikes. And then I get home and forget what I was even thinking about. Keep a journal, a note tab in your phone or something that you can write those amazing ideas down as they come. Another note is that writing out your ideas helps to make them real and creates a sense of commitment that will make it harder for you to avoid later down the line.
3. The money will come, just remain focused on the task
More money, more problems – I’m calling bullshit on the whole thing! As a business owner, I get so excited when I say those PayPal payments come in until I remember what invoices I have that needs to be paid. If you’re breaking even or turning a small profit in your business, then you’re doing an amazing job. If you haven’t turned a profit just yet, don’t worry – you are not alone. The money will come. Stop focusing on the fact that you don’t have the money you want and keep your energy centered around your plan. Work with what you have. Believe in yourself. Remain true to your brand and those payments will begin flowing in.
4. Stop trying to avoid to failure – it’s going to happen
Whoever said that failure is not an option was a damn lie. Success cannot be achieved without experiencing some failure – it’s inevitable. You making the decision to not pursue an opportunity because of the potential failure that comes with it is absolutely ridiculous. You are robbing yourself of any good that will come to your business. Fear is natural and healthy. Honestly, I still get nervous and even a little afraid of how my audience will receive a change in my business (new services, updated websites, increase in pricing, etc.) but I know I have jump into the unknown and take a chance. I don’t regret the things that I’ve tried and failed at, but I do regret the decisions that I’ve made to not even give myself an opportunity to fail.
5. Get off your ass and do something productive
You will never achieve anything great without putting in the work. Get off your ass and create opportunities for yourself. Become productive. Expand your knowledge of the industry. Do something – you’ll only have yourself to blame.
Larenda
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