John F. Kennedy's words, "Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try," have been my guiding light as a new small business owner. I know firsthand the fears that can hold you back: promoting yourself, taking risks, and the fear of not being accepted. Last year in 2022, I repeated that mantra as I trained for my first (and let's face it, likely last...) marathon. I was terrified to go after this bucket list checkmark. And the early morning runs in the Central Texas heat and humidity didn't exactly encourage me each week. But somehow I put one foot in front of the other as I trained and eventually, my legs led me through all 5 NYC boroughs to the finish line at the New York City Marathon.
I have taken those lessons and JFK's quote to heart as I start this next bucket list adventure. I thought I'd include some of the ways I've tackled these challenges, and maybe you'll find some inspiration for your path.
Promoting Yourself: Silencing Self-Doubt
Promoting your business often means promoting yourself, and that can feel uncomfortable. It's easy to doubt yourself and fear coming across as self-centered. But remember, self-promotion is about sharing your passion and value. I remember realizing that my passion was genuinely to help others--thank you Simon Sinek. I've always been guided by service. When I realized that I could take my financial experience and knowledge and use that to help others, and serve them, I knew I wanted to start The Fractional Company.
My approach has been to stay authentic, provide value through my content, share my story, and seek guidance from mentors and my business community. It's not about arrogance but about showing the world what you can offer.
Taking Risks: The Thrill of Innovation
Taking risks is the beating heart of entrepreneurship. It's the fear of the unknown that makes us hesitate. However, I've learned that calculated risks lead to innovation and growth. I had a mentor remind me early in my career that if I was comfortable, I wasn't growing. And nothing is more uncomfortable than starting your own business for your family, your friends, and the world to see.
Market research, starting small, learning from failures, and setting clear goals have been my tools to embrace risk. It's about seizing opportunities without being reckless. I also keep in the forefront of my mind that I am showing my children, especially my teenage daughters, what it looks like to go for it. Their courage has inspired me on countless occasions. Why would starting a business be any different?
Fear of Not Being Accepted: Finding Your Place
The fear of not being accepted in the business world can be paralyzing. But, diversity and uniqueness are what make the business landscape vibrant.
To conquer this fear, I've focused on what makes my business unique, embraced feedback, built relationships within my industry, and held fast to my vision and values.
Starting a small business takes courage – it's the decision to try, despite your fears. The journey may be challenging, but it's equally rewarding. Kennedy said it well: "Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth." So, have the courage to be yourself, take those risks, and believe in your vision. You'll accomplish great things and leave your mark on the world of entrepreneurship.