I started my own business ready to tackle the world, make all the money, and live a life of total ease. As you can probably guess, it didn't take long for me to get a little more realistic.
While all those things were possible (and still are!), it takes a lot of work to run a business. And when you're doing it on your own, you learn some pretty hard lessons along the way.
These are the three toughest truths I've learned about running a business (that have also made me a better business owner).
3 Things I've Learned About Starting Your Own Business
1. It doesn't get easier.
When I first started my own business, I saw all these high-level entrepreneurs on social media breezing through six-figure launches. They made it look so easy! I just thought, If I do this long enough, it'll get easier for me.
But it didn't get easier for me. And I know now that it wasn't easy for them, either.
Starting and running your own business is a never-ending series of learning curves. Just when you think you've mastered something, you turn a corner, and BAM! There's another unknown.
The unfortunate truth is that it will never be easy, but you will get better at it. Showing up, making tough decisions, and taking big leaps may always scare the crap out of you, but you'll also get used to doing scary stuff.
2. You'll always fear failure.
That bougie business owner showing off their yacht on Instagram? They're afraid their next idea is going to be a flop.
So is every single business owner on the face of the planet.
Starting your own business is about experimentation, and when you market yourself online, a lot of people get to see the process. If you're a massive success, you'll have hundreds of raving fans. If you fail miserably, hundreds of people will watch you crash and burn.
Terrifying, right?
That fear of failure and embarrassment is totally natural, and it's also a good thing! A healthy fear of failure keeps you trying new things and giving your all in each new venture. Just don't let it paralyze you. If you want to be successful, you have to try new things. If half of those things work out, you're probably doing better than most of the big players.
3. You have to push yourself out of your comfort zone.
Duh.
But here's the thing: You have to push yourself. When you start your own business, you take full responsibility for your own success. No one else - no boss, no parent, nobody - is going to push you. You have to do it yourself.
Part of this is holding yourself accountable. If you promise yourself you'll show up for work, take it seriously! And if you promise yourself you'll make a big, scary leap in your business, you'd better show up.
You'll have to put yourself in situations that make you uncomfortable, but that's how you grow. Every new, uncomfortable, terrifying situation is an opportunity to learn about yourself and your business. When you see these experiences as learning opportunities, failure doesn't sound so bad. No matter what, you'll have learned a lesson.
Keep learning, business owner!
Starting your own business is tough, but it's also so worth it! With the right resources and a whole lot of determination, you can move through the rough patches and onto the next challenge.
If you really want to set yourself up for success, create a game plan! Let's book a Strategy Session to go over your finances, set some goals, and make a plan for growth.
Want more tips like these? Be sure to subscribe to the newsletter! (and don't forget to follow along on IG @prettypennyaccounting)
Feeling unsure or worried about the accounting side of your business? Download this free guide with 3 steps to financial confidence in your business.
Ready to hand over your accounting? Download my services guide and let's work together!
Comments