When you take the leap into entrepreneurship, nobody really guides you along the way and holds your hands through all the challenges. You have to pretty much figure out how to run a business, manage people and run a website all on your own. But, in all the things that we fear, we know that it will be worth every minute of the struggle in the end.
So, in my few years of being an entrepreneur and having the privilege of working with other entrepreneurs, I have put together a few tips to guide you along the way.
Don’t make decisions based on money that you don’t have direct access to!
Sometimes it’s SO EASY to land a huge contract and start spending beyond your means without having access to those funds. In real estate, we can score a huge deal today and it won’t close for maybe three to six months. This was my way of training myself to make sure that funds were in my account before it was spent. Too many people rack up credit card bills and lines of credit with the anticipation of money coming in – which may fall through the very last minute.
A signed contract can be more valuable than gold!
If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year, it’s that business deals, partnerships, and other agreements are all part of the package. I thought that verbal agreements could also count as final at first, but that’s just not how it goes. If you’re wasting your time jumping through hoops for someone who walks away at the end of the day, you’re left feeling worse off.
Interviews don`t always reflect abilities!
Ok – this right here – is how I run my business. For as long as I can remember, I have always interviewed staff based on their character and personality. Yes, credentials and skills are always an asset, but if you have a positive personality as well as a good mindset, I believe that you can put your mind to anything. During interviews, people are prepped and ready to answer questions about their experiences, skills, abilities, etc. But looking past that and seeing a person for who they perceive to be can be an important element in finding that right person for the job.
The art of multitasking can actually hurt your business!
Though being busy can feel great, it can also mean that you are not being productive. I can multitask my way out of any crazy busy day – but sometimes, you need to know WHEN you should handle ONE item at a time. As the Queen of lists, I make a list of things that are minor and all the things that are major. If I have something super important to work on, I block away that time in my calendar and focus on only that. Set priorities and list them accordingly.
And finally….Have a little faith in yourself!
It’s hard to remember that you know what you’re talking about sometimes. Yes, there will be people who don’t want to listen to you or who think they know better, but it’s the same with anything, and its best just to be positive and focus on what you know. Second guessing yourself or letting someone try to talk you out of it is normal (and human!) but always remember to trust yourself!
So, whatever you do, know that you are doing your best and you can`t do everything you hope to do in one breath. Entrepreneurship is great if you know how to balance tour life and your work and you will only succeed if you don`t burn yourself out!
Hope this helped you in your entrepreneurship journey! Stay tuned for an upcoming blog post on social media mistakes to avoid in your business!
With Love | Nikki xo