Thanks everyone! 2 Years in business seems like it has gone by in a blink of an eye. We’ve had wonderful customers and had the opportunity to work on some awesome projects. I thought I’d share some of the learning I’ve had over the last two years as a new “entrepreneur” and offer some advice for entrepreneurs. Hopefully, helping out anyone else thinking of starting their own business.
The Value of Time
The biggest thing I’ve learned is the value of time. Time is the great equalizer. No one gets any more than anyone else. You have to focus on what grows your business. You don’t have time for anything else! In 24 hours you have to sleep, eat, groom yourself, spend time with your family (not necessarily in that order) AND grow and run your business. The absolute key to growing your business is to get more output for every minute of your input. This means deciding on a course of action, not getting distracted, and leverage every minute in the pursuit of your plan. Which leads me to my next revelation.
You Achieve What you Plan to Do
I can’t explain this to those who have not personally experienced it, but I can share my experience. Something magical happens when you decide what it is you want to do and then focus on accomplishing it. Whether you believe in “God” or “the universe” or not, I can tell you from first hand experience that there is a helping hand that wants you to succeed the second you decide what it is you want to do. If you pay attention, that “helping hand” puts opportunities and obstacles in front of you designed to help you achieve your goals. If you keep an eye out for them, it’s a big help in your success.
The Value of People and Connections
Many people have helped me with referrals and given me business to help me get started. I appreciate every referral and am grateful to all my connections and supporters. Get out there and meet people, offer free advice and help, it pays off in the end.
Do ONLY What You’re Excellent At
I get many opportunities for different kinds of business. If it’s work I know I can add value to and do better than anyone else, I go after and take the job. There are also many opportunities that come my way where I believe in my heart that I wouldn’t be the best choice for the client, or the entire project the client has is just a bad idea. I tell them. This simple act of honesty has lead to these clients recommending me to their friends and colleagues time and again as an “honest and trustworthy” person to do business with. Keep that in mind. The revenue from a project that ends up being mediocre or bad is just not worth your reputation. Your reputation will get you more referrals and business. Don’t be afraid to politely turn away projects that are not area of expertise. Your customers will respect you for it.
Follow Through
It’s amazing to me how many clients come to me because their web designer dropped the project in the middle before completion. Always follow through. I’ve had many clients where “revisions” end up being a never ending cycle. However, I’ve never not completed a project. You live and die by your reputation. If you take the job. Finish it. Every time.
They Why is More Important Than the How
Being an entrepreneur or achieving a goal is all about “the why”. You’ll face many tough challenges and if “the why” isn’t stronger than the obstacle, you’re likely to either give up or avoid doing those things which you’re most uncomfortable with in the achievement of your goal. I have my own “why” but one phrase has always helped me when I’m feeling low. Entrepreneurs “live for a few years like no on else wants to, so they can live the rest of their lives like no one else can” Thank you everyone for your support and good luck to you all in your own endeavors.
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