Patience pays off when it comes to achieving your small business goals!
Growing a business is an exercise in patience!
We live in a culture fueled by technology.
Like most of us, you are probably conditioned to expect results in a single click. You’re barraged by stories, videos and ads on social media touting the success of businesses similar to your own. They make it look so easy, right?!
Social media can be very motivating. It can also create a tough case of imposter syndrome. You are not an imposter!! You are absolutely capable of creating the business of your dreams.
Starting a business from scratch is an investment in the future. You are building a legacy. It takes time, patience and persistence. The success stories that you see online started small and grew over time. Some faster than others, but they all required hard work and consistency.
One thing is for sure, you have to keep moving forward even when progress is slow. It takes practice and positive thinking to train yourself how not to panic when results aren’t happening instantaneously.
I’ve lived through the early, uncertain phases of growing businesses, and I know how it feels when the plan isn’t unfolding exactly how you envision. A feeling of overwhelm is natural and understandable, but it can also stand in the way of progress.
Here are a few ways to ensure that you keep moving forward:
Chart your course
Create a plan that outlines 3 goals for the next 1-2 years.
List 3 steps that you need to take to accomplish each goal.
Include a deadline for each step.
Get to work on the list!
You’ll feel accomplished and you will start to see progress toward the big picture goals.
Look for inspiration
Social media is a hub of success stories.
Follow business owners that inspire you.
Study their style, business model, etc. and determine if some elements might work for you.
Try their tips – there’s a lot of fantastic free info out there.
Snooze or unfollow the ones that leave you feeling down about your own business.
Develop a network of business owners
Join your Chamber of Commerce or local business networking groups.
Participate in live-online learning opportunities like cohorts, seminars and workshops.
Reach out to people that you want to know! Invite them for a videoconference or coffee.
Don’t be afraid to ask for advice from other business owners. They’ll have great insights.
Try collaborating with other businesses on services or products that are complementary.
The business of your dreams is within reach! It just takes a planful approach, willingness to pivot and most importantly, consistent work toward your goals.
Need some help developing your plan? Let’s chat. I would love to help you develop a business that is rooted in your unique values and vision for the future. I offer free inspiration sessions to help you keep moving toward your goals. Contact me and let’s get started!
