Are you wondering about starting your own business? Or have you decided you should, without maybe considering all aspects of the question? Often we jump into action mode and focus on the “how” but the “why” should always be the starting point.
So you might be considering a change in your career, and thinking about a business specifically. How do you know for sure that it is the right move? What tells you that you have what it takes?
After being in business over 2 years, and not asking myself this question prior, this is what I wish I had read back then. First let me start by listing the circumstances when you probably shouldn’t do it:
- When you are frustrated: as a result of people or circumstances, or not getting what you want (i.e. the title, salary or recognition). Whilst this will initially fuel your motivation, it isn’t a solid ‘why’ to grow a business. Because you will be focusing on proving your own value, rather than giving it to other people. Plus any new business will bring its own bag of frustrations too, so best not to layer them up.
- When you are restless, itching for a change: businesses can seem ideal to launch yourself into to ‘create’ and immerse yourself. But that is not enough to make it a purpose. The ‘why’ isn’t in being head down working.
- When your circumstances are challenging: for instance when your relationship, health, family or financial situation aren’t strong. Starting a business will likely test all areas of your life, so you need the support around you. I’m not saying wait to have it all perfect, or you won’t do it. But don’t do it at particularly tough times, when you are looking for a way to feel better through work.
- When you are imitating someone, or wishing to have what they’ve got: role models who inspire us are a good thing, but there is a lot more going on behind the scenes that isn’t much spoken about. They might be just glossing over the business reality because it is challenging for them.
So on the other hand, what are the signs that you should be going solo? Or if you are wondering if a business is for you, these are the questions to ponder.
- Do you see a problem that isn’t fixed, or value you bring that others don’t? These are the right ingredients to business success, because they deliver value. By the way you can still do this within an existing company too.
- Do you crave flexibility and freedom, ahead of money, security and recognition? Of course we all need those things, but initially you can bargain on flexibility and freedom. The rest comes with experience, failures, and time. Check what your priorities are. Most people don’t make a million overnight.
- Do you feel called to do something that will benefit others? To help a greater cause, to share or to give back? This is how your purpose can take form through a business. Again you can do this in any organisation too. But when you are part of your message, it might be best to step into it as your own brand.
- When you know your own resilience and grit levels: you have been through personal or professional challenges that tested your courage, your strength and your perseverance. When you have been way outside your comfort zone, you know you can do it again.
You can do anything you set your mind to, including a business. Period. But what you know today, and why you are getting into a business are paramount to your success. You can get help from there, learn all the tools. It’s not the amount of hours that you will work in it that will drive your success. It is about having the right mindset, the right skill set, and a way to know what you are missing in both areas.
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