As we celebrate our 11th business anniversary here at SwagHer Magazine & Media LLC, I wanted to share 11 things I’ve learned so far while being an entrepreneur.
- Celebrate the small wins too.
It’s easy to celebrate the big things, but big things don’t happen as frequently as we like, and if that is all you are fueling yourself with, you will be discouraged. Don’t forget to celebrate the small things too. Plus, practicing gratitude attracts more blessings to you.
- Don’t be afraid to share your knowledge.
In this day and age, we have to add value to those around us. How do you that? One way is by sharing knowledge and not hoarding it. You can’t be worried about what others will do with it. What’s for you is for you, just as what’s for the other person is for them.
- You must show support to get support.
It’s essential to have good relationships in business; you want people to not just purchase or work with you one time but repeatedly. So when people support your dream, be sure to support theirs back. Relationships work best when both sides are willing to give something and not just receive. It’s not always easy to financially support others when we first start out, but we can always cheer them on in other ways. Some ways are as simple as liking and/or commenting on a post on social media.
- It’s not about being liked but rather being respected.
Yes, you want people to like you in business. When they like you, they trust you. However, if you worry too much about being liked, you will run yourself ragged and leave yourself susceptible to leeches and bloodsucker with little time for you. It’s better to be respected so people will know not to play with you or waste your time. This is especially true as you start to grow your team.
- It’s almost immature to think you don’t have to play the game or you won’t play the game.
Yes, there is a game to life and business. I don’t know all of the rules. I am still learning myself, but I can say after years of trying to avoid the game and do everything on my own, I realized it’s almost silly to think you don’t have to participate when everyone is involved. By no means am I saying go against your morals or beliefs; there are ways to play while remaining true to yourself, but to not play at all only leaves you out in the cold. Entrepreneurship is lonely enough. When you open yourself to others, you also open yourself to more opportunities and advancements.
- Never stop learning.
Due to technology and other things, industries are steadily growing and evolving. You want to stay on top of your industry news and developments. This way, you can deliver the best products or services you have to offer. Trust, clients know when you are not up to par because most do their research before approaching us. Also, learn about things outside of your industry or that align with it. This is great for conversations as well.
- Growth doesn’t come from comfort zones.
You’ve heard it before, and I am sure you will hear it several times again. You must get uncomfortable to grow.
- Do the things that scare you.
Further elaborating on #7, do those things that you keep coming to your mind but that your fears keep you from doing.
- Move with intention.
It’s essential to move with intention because we usually tend to spin our wheels and go nowhere when we do not. Think about where you want to be or want to go, and then take steps to get there; make sure that your actions and how you spend your time align with getting you to your destination.
- Inconsistency kills your brand image and credibility.
You must show up! It’s just that simple. No excuses and you must be consistent with it. Starting and stopping is not a good look, and it makes people wonder if you can deliver on your word.
- Keep doing you, and someone will feel you.
At the end of the day, take ALL of these tips with a grain of salt because what is most important is that you don’t get discouraged or distracted but that you keep at your dream, whatever it may be, while also remaining true to yourself.
Bonus: Don’t be pressured to quit your day job, and don’t rush it. It’s a marathon, not a race.
Whew, yes, being an entrepreneur is a lot. It has its ups and downs, and there is a great deal to learn. I only wish I had a mentor to tell me these things early on.
Do any of these hit home for you? Are there any that you would like to suggest to other business owners? Let me know in the comments?
