Being an entrepreneur has been an amazing, awful, tremendous, exciting, nerve-wracking experiences, and also one of the best things I have ever done for my life. There have been successes and failures on the journey. I am deeply grateful for my clients, my networks, my team and my ability to keep looking into the unknown and to create newly everyday.
Here are some of the lessons I have learned over the last few years. They are the principles that govern my work and have me thrive as an entrepreneur:
1. I Trust My Instincts.
I was told by a trusted advisor to stay with what I knew best rather than switch fields. So rather than lead with coaching, I focussed on diversity training as a practice. It was only after 3 years that I finally followed my dream and started Prosperity Cafe. So while I enjoyed my diversity work, I could have been leading with my passion.
2. I Have a Team I Trust.
I really tried to do it all myself in the first few years and finally realized that I needed to find partners and colleagues I trust and who have my back. This takes investment and vulnerability to relinquish some control of your business in the trust that your team is going to fulfill on your vision. But the rewards are huge. Your team is what will keep your business moving.
3. I Take Risks.
There is no one size fits all in business development, create a plan for you and go for it. Take a risk and try something new. Conservative actions get conservative results.
4. I Have Developed Nerves of Steel.
During the early years of developing my practice, I frequently felt like I was hanging in the skinny branches of a tree. I still feel that way occasionally when a potential client says no, yeses always feel better than nos! Cycles change, the pendulum swings and no matter what, as long as I stay, stay and stay, my business grows and develops. My nerves of steel give me the necessary perseverance.
5. I Have Conversations, Lots, All The Time.
Keep talking to people, network, share your story – both personally and in your social media channels. But above all, keep talking to the people in your circles and take every opportunity to expand those circles. Keep talking, keep meeting new people and keep sharing about your vision.
6. I Have a Compelling Vision That Keeps Me Inspired.
I have a vision for myself and others, it is the reason why I work my business. What is your work/passion/business doing for you and for others? What are you committed to, what is your “why”? Right now, I am deeply committed to helping women lead free and prosperous lives. It doesn’t matter how discouraged I may occasionally get about my circumstances, my wish for my future and my commitment to making a difference for women keeps me going. When I am clear about my vision, I have the motivation needed to breakthrough the challenging times.
Here is to you MY SISTERS IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP! Congratulations, I celebrate us and our successes!