October 2012 marks my 10-year anniversary as an entrepreneur!
I’ve taken a few bumps and bruises along the way so thought I’d share ten of my top lessons with you in this week’s edition in the hopes you’re able to avoid at least one of the hits I’ve taken over the years 🙂
Here’s a dose of biz truth for you. Some of these lessons were painful, others are positive… Just like business ownership!
10. Not every investment will be a good investment.
I’ve wasted more money on overpriced, no-value programs than I care to remember, but it doesn’t stop me from investing in my growth. I’ve just gotten better at knowing how to choose. (Email me if you want to know my criteria.)
9. A high price tag isn’t necessarily an indicator of a high return.
It can often do more to fuel the seller’s growth than yours. Beware of outrageous promises. And don’t confuse their success with your future success. That’s called “smoke & mirrors” in the magic biz.
8. Don’t hand over your power along with your credit card number.
Manipulators want you to depend on them so they can keep swiping your credit card. He’s not “your daddy”… and never will be.
7. Even if you’re a solopreneur, you can’t do it alone.
I owe a mountain of gratitude to all of my past, present and future business friends who lend mountains of support and advice.
6. It’s ultimately up to you to decide.
It’s great to get perspective from others, but ultimately you must follow your gut.
5. Take responsibility.
In my heart of hearts, I usually knew better. I just didn’t trust myself enough to believe it.
4. Do NOT let fear drive your decisions.
Being an entrepreneur feels isolating sometimes so it’s easy to get scared and withdraw because it all feels scary. Resist the temptation of falling into that trap.
3. Dare yourself to actually accomplish what you set out to do. I hated making initial contact calls when I started my first biz… I was unsure of myself and felt vulnerable. Once I sucked it up, it got easier and the doors opened wide. So do it, even if it you don’t want to!
2. Take action, because hope is not a business strategy.
I hope the phone rings. I hope people click “buy” on my website. I hope this program is the silver bullet. I hope I break $1 million… I mean $100,000… ummm $50,000… this year. Get real, Entrepreneur.
1. If you’re in business, you’re in sales.
Even if you’re new to my community, you knew this one was coming!
2 more bonus lessons:
Smile. It’s easy and it lights you and others up…. So why the heck not?!
Rest. I wish I did more of this. I’m getting better… but burnout is imminent if you don’t do it… and it’ll never all get done anyway, so you may as well make time for you!
