When you’re running a business, things can get pretty lonely. All the staff members and loved ones in the world won’t be able to understand what you’re going through. They may care, and work hard, but success balances on you.
That is, of course, one of the reasons many of us decide to go it alone. Nothing beats breaking the mould and making something work all alone. But, it would be naive to assume it’s all sunshine and laughter. Far from it. Taking this path will sometimes leave you wondering what it was you were thinking.
That’s not to say the struggle isn’t worthwhile. Though you may find it hard to come to that conclusion when deadlines pile up, and pressure gets you down. In those instances, what you need is someone who’s been where you are. Someone who can kick you, and tell you, with confidence, that things will get better. But, where can find advice like that? By looking to successful entrepreneurs, of course. No one can tell it better than those who have done it and made it work. To prove the point, we’ve got four pieces of advice from those in the know, each of which can pick you up when you’re down.
“Follow your heart.”
This simple but heartfelt advice is from bestselling author of ‘The School of Greatness’, Lewis Howes. Once upon a time, Howes was a professional football player. Now, he coaches people on how to get the life they dream of. He’s had to fight hard for what he’s got, and everything about him is an inspiration. But, we thought this piece of advice was apt. When you’re facing hard decisions, these three words can get you through.
It’s usually not the first thing you try that gets you there. The important part is that you keep trying.”
We have Turn-5 CEO and founder, Steven Voudouris to thank for this gem. Voudouris turned a young love of Mustangs into a game changing career. If he’s telling you that it takes a few tries to get things right, you should listen. Next time you feel on the verge of giving up, remember this advice. Then, try again.
“It’s not failure. You either succeed or learn.”
The wise words of Life is Good co-founder, John Jacobs, fit well with that last piece of advice. To ensure things work out, it’s crucial to learn from failed exploits. What went wrong, and how can you stop it happening again? Jacobs and his brother found starting out so tough that they lived in a van for five years. Stop the same happening to you be heeding this advice.
“Remember why you started.”
To finish, this gem from Maia McDonald, owner of children’s clothing brand, Bitte. When business gets choppy, it’s tempting to quit. If you feel you’re at that stage, think back to what inspired you in the first place. You may well find that reinvigorating your desire is all it takes to get back on track.
