Starting can be overwhelming with so many ideas swirling in your mind, waiting to be transformed into reality.
Unlike typical entrepreneurship resources, I want to delve into the emotional aspect of the journey.
Initially, self-doubt creeps in. We question if anyone would be interested in what we want to create. Fear holds us back from pursuing our dreams, and we consider giving up.
The urge to quit may last a few minutes, hours, or even days. Eventually, your idea resurfaces, and you can approach it with a clearer perspective, refining your plans.
Writing things down is crucial. When you document your plans:
A. You see the messiness and identify areas for improvement. This stage may take months.
B. You gain the confidence to move forward!
With a clear goal and newfound confidence, you believe in your ability to succeed. The next step is to break down the goal into actionable steps. There’s no right or wrong way to do this. We often procrastinate on tasks that we’re uncertain about or lack the necessary resources (money, skills, time) to tackle.
Do what you can, and your confidence will grow through progress, even if it deviates from the order you initially envisioned. Life doesn’t always follow a linear path, so why should a business plan?
It’s time to seek honest feedback from trusted friends. It’s a vulnerable moment, but remember to stay strong. Prepare a set of questions, with the most crucial one being, “Would you use/consume this product?” Consider the cost involved (free, more or less than a certain price). Brace yourself, as you may need to make both minor and major adjustments.
This feedback loop should continue indefinitely. Select the most constructive feedback and carry it with you—it becomes part of your brand. Engaging with clients not only benefits the founders but also allows them to be a part of an exciting journey.
Don’t forget to take breaks and engage in activities that bring you joy. Hobbies, quality time with family and friends—these moments are well-deserved rewards for your hard work.
Self-knowledge is crucial because there will be times when inspiration and motivation wane. Understanding yourself helps you identify the root causes behind these moments. It’s important to develop coping mechanisms to overcome such hurdles.
“The universe will reward you for taking risks on its behalf.”- Shakti Gawain.
“Just don’t give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong.” – Ella Fitzgerald.