This archive report was first published on 18 December 2019.
Things We Overlook Going into Business ¶
As an entrepreneur, you carry the most powerful weapon - your brain - with which you can make important decisions regarding your business. However, there are days when you will feel like quitting, and it is on these days that you need to find that inner energy and pull yourself together.
Reminding yourself why you are doing what you are doing is crucial. While making money might be a good motivating factor to start a business, it is just not enough. You will need to find a higher purpose if your business is to last.
One of the things we overlook when getting into business is finding a mentor. A mentor can provide guidance and help you avoid making avoidable mistakes. It's always advisable to seek guidance from someone who has a strong track record of success in business and believes in your idea.
Breaking the rules is another key aspect of building a successful business. Everything that has been invented has been as a result of breaking the rules. Most times, when you break the rules, people around you will take it as a joke or think you are going crazy.
Having a flexible strategy is also important. When you bring in a team, be ready to accommodate their thinking and adjust your strategy as needed. Working hard and working smart go hand in hand. You might be smart, but you need to compliment it with hard work.
Business is all about people. While you may have all the money to put in your business, it is people who will implement your systems to generate consistent cash flows. You can't do it all by yourself. Focus on people, understand their needs, compensate them adequately, and invest in their training.
Managing debt is also crucial. While taking on debt to start a business can be risky, especially for first-time entrepreneurs, be very careful and make sure your debt is within manageable limits.
As an award-winning artiste and entrepreneur, I have learned that entrepreneurship is a difficult journey, but with the right mindset and tools, you can overcome obstacles and achieve success.