Are there really any sure-fire ways to guarantee a successful life, business or relationship? I’m not sure it’s really a “guarantee”, but I love these points as a beginning when you consider starting something new or scaling something you’ve been working on for years. Heck, you can apply them to life in general.
JUST START!
Stop talking about those things you want to do or build and, to borrow a great tag line “JUST DO IT”. How many times have you discussed your business concept with friends, family, strangers??? How did that go? Did you end up with more confusion? Were they supportive? Talking endlessly about what you want to do often paralyzes you. Be practical about it….get your ideas (whether you are just starting a business or want to learn a new skill) written down and then EXECUTE. Waiting around can be an “excuse” for inaction. If you aim for nothing … you will always get it!
STOP LISTENING TO OTHERS OPINIONS
How many times in the past have you taken someone into your confidence and shared your dream only to be told “that sounds like a lot of work and no money….” or “are you SURE?” or “what will people think of you doing that?” I think the most important thing to consider here is .. what is THAT person doing with their life? Why is their opinion SO important? It’s NOT! I think a lot of us get “stuck” listening to the nay sayers. If they are content doing nothing at all or just getting by…..GREAT. Don’t let the opinion of others cripple your dreams and plans. Know that if you chose to share your idea, business, life-changing concept with others you may get negative feedback. Do it anyway.
KEEP GOING…
This is a great one…no matter what happens while you are in pursuit of your dream…keep going! Do not stop and wait for things to be PERFECT….for things to be “easier”…for the approval of friends or family …or, for life to even out. It’s NOT going to happen. Be in hot pursuit NO MATTER WHAT. PERIOD.
KEEP LEARNING
You know how we all hear stories about famous athletes or singers or authors? They were turned down several times and then, they make the team….get the Tony…or, become an “overnight” success. I think another way to look at this phenomenon is…maybe they just needed more time to become more accomplished at what they wanted to do. We all need to keep learning and moving forward. Don’t feel like a big loser if your fabulous business plan doesn’t work just like you thought it would. Keep refining. Keep asking others for constructive feedback. Take your time with it. It will happen when the time is right and you are at the right “level” in your field or life. Level up!
HAVE BIGGER DREAMS
Successful people appear to have one thing in common. They all look at their plans in a “bigger picture” way. Once they start their project, they begin to explore additional options they can integrate into the original plan or business. There is a great quote about this …”It doesn’t help anyone for you to keep your light under a bushel” in other words, DON’T PLAY SMALL. Go for the home run. Form alliances and relationships with people in businesses (or life) that do something that dovetails with your interests. For example, if you are a runner and see a niche in athletic wear…talk with them about collaborating to create a line you can sell. If you’ve embarked on a new fitness program, chat with local mamas or nutrition people to form a larger footprint in your community.
The bottom line is: don’t be afraid to reach out. People are pretty great about sharing their experience and knowledge. Take a chance. Be great! Dream BIG.
What “must haves” do you use in cultivating or scaling your dreams? Have they worked?
Keep Creating!
BUSINESS BOOKS I LOVE:
The E Myth – Michael Gerber / Lean In – Sheryl Sandburg / Girl Boss – Sophia Amorousa / The Shoe Dog – Phil Knight / Steve Jobs – Walter Isaacson