Take it a day at a time
There are so many quotes, books, seminars, coaches and other channels of motivation that can help keep you focused on your unique entrepreneurs’ journey. Some question should, however, be asked and thought about to ensure that you stay on the path, remember the end goal and can be held accountable for the decisions that you make.
One of the truths that no one can ever truly answer for you is “Are you cut out for being your own boss? Being responsible for the livelihoods of other people under your employment?”. This question along with a few others must be answered honestly whilst you consider the steps that you need to take as you move into the world of entrepreneurship.
First steps
- Get a business idea
- Do your research around the what, how, when and where.
- Get the support you need (family and/or financial)
Now for the additional thinking
Here are some additional things that you need to consider:
Hard work to reach specific milestones
We should get this one out of the way now, it may be the most obvious one, but it is the one that throws people off at times. That expression that “nothing worth having, ever comes easy” is very true. You have to put in the hours, the time, the energy and yes, there will be some tears and frustration, but that should not stop you from keeping at it – pushing forward until you reach a set milestone. There is no exact formula but it doesn’t matter who you may ask or read about, each one will tell you that hard work is key.
Persistence
This is a bit of trusting your instincts, a touch of chutzpah or fearlessness and a good dose of having an open mind. An entrepreneur needs to be relentless in pursuing their goal/dream, it cannot be a half-hearted effort in the hope of achieving success.
You need to have an open mind in order to learn more about the industry you’re getting involved in, read any and all information that comes out – and then decide what works best for you and your business. It is also important to take any knocks or disappointments in your stride, learn what you need to and move forward. It may not be easy but having a strong mind-set will stop you from wallowing in that setback and giving up.
Identify a mentor
Mentorship is another part of the entrepreneurship path that needs to be considered, because at times you need someone to be the voice of reason when you cannot be that for yourself. Only due to the fact that when you are so engrossed in any project or in this case, your business, you may not see some things that can either help you grow or hinder you. Your relationship with your mentor, as with any mentor-mentee relationship needs to enhance both your lives and most importantly, how you approach your business and all the areas within your business.
Money money money!
Do you have a handle on your finances? Just in general, your own personal finances. Now think about your company finances. You must remember that when you are an entrepreneur, that the last person who gets paid, is YOU! Also, that in the first few years, especially the first year, you will not be making a lot of money, if any. There’s no reason to despair, you can and will make money from your business venture – as long as you hang in there, ensure you have a business account that has a decent amount of savings in there and also that you manage it well (or have someone manage it for you).
There is no “One size fits all” solution or business plan
Always try to keep in mind that your business venture is unique, in the sense that you as the owner / entrepreneur, you do not think like another entrepreneur…and that is okay – own it, be okay with it and do not even for a second, start comparing your business journey to another entrepreneur’s path. All that will do is make you think that you need change your business plan to follow their blueprint and you lose focus on your plan. Be fluid enough to recognise and incorporate good ideas into your business but ensure that they do not change the course you have taken and you find yourself and your business in another space completely.
Whether you are a 9-5 employee, with what is now popularly known as a side-hustle or you have taken the proverbial leap of faith and started your own business, try to keep in mind that it may be a long, sometimes lonely and hard road you have embarked on but it is one that if you feel strongly about it and work hard and smart for it, will bear incredible fruit for you.
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