It’s true to say not everyone is cut out to be a business owner.
The hours are long, the effort is intense. To be married to your business is an understatement…
The good news is that being a business owner is so rewarding, despite what I have just said! Those long hours are totally flexible and the effort is at your own pace. You don’t have to live to others timings and rules. You get to do your work, your way, when you want. That leads to effortless effort.
So how do you get to having a great effortless business and be your own business hero?
In using the plans and processes I honed during my corporate days, I realised five key areas in making projects work effortlessly existed:
- Know your resources
Any new venture, hobby business or corporate project, needs backing. Finances need to cover the basics. Knowing how much you have and where to place your resources (even if only small) means you can get the money to work for you.
It’s not all about the money though. People undoubtedly will be your biggest resource. Your family and friends are your biggest supporters and critics in equal measure. You may feel at times they are not supporting you. Look closely enough and you will see they are mirroring your own fears and concerns.
When you recognise the reflections, you can do something about them.
- Plan, implement, amend, review, renew
Those reflections mean you are learning what you DON’T know, and that is where success is found. To get there a little quicker, plan what you are going to do. Put together a business plan.
It sounds like hard work, however, a business plan is merely being clear with the Universe on what you DO want. In no uncertain terms!
Once your plan is in place, you can test, mould, change and grow. You will have all the information to hand, a clear path on where you are going and the time frames. When obstacles pop up, you can adapt your plan.
Nothing saves time and money like a good plan!
- No hero is an island
Although your business is your ‘baby’ from inception to manifestation, you can’t operate in a vacuum.
Connect and network with other business owners. Join a peer support group and you will be inspired, learn and be able to get into the nitty-gritty of your business in real time.
You will also be able to get a great team around you. Whilst one person is great, a supportive team working towards your vision helps you do even greater things. Making a bigger impact and getting those world-changing ideas changing the world.
- Say yes to boundaries
Yes, starting out, planning and launching a business is hard work, however, this is your foundation. Boundaries need to be set for you, your family and your clients.
As Stephen Covey talks about ‘sharpening the axe’ you need to be rested and ready for your clients. You can’t serve coffee from an empty urn…
Boundaries are the best thing any hero can have, after all even Superman needs to go home before flying out again!
- Try something new
Once you are very clear on your boundaries, you can begin testing your comfort zone boundaries.
Yes, getting too comfortable can lead to complacency. As you are your own business hero, complacency is the equivalent to Kryptonite!
Get out there and try something new. Doing something completely different helps to stimulate inspiration. Show your leadership abilities and help your clients see you as being more flexible in your approach to life and business.
Whilst you are saying yes, say yes to new adventures!
Whilst you are in the mode of trying something new, tell me, how can you be your own business hero today?
Cheryl-lya is a Soul Adventurer, helping women around the globe plan, launch and grow successful and sustainable businesses. She runs workshops alongside one-to-one coaching. To contact her: call UK mobile 07527 303 911, or visit her website soulscompass.net Say ‘hello’ or share your joys via email: cheryllyas@btinternet.com
