Can you expect too much?

Let’s face it – if you’ve walked away from a ’secure’ career to march to the beat of your own drum, you are making a statement. And making a statement automatically positions you outside of the norm and what is expected. In fact, you’re doing something that most people DON’T do. And that can feel exhilarating.

That high will take you to places you never imagined you would go, but there is one truth, and that’s what goes up eventually comes down.

Most of us hit a point when we realize we don’t know what to do next to grow the business, and that we’re working harder than we ever imagined we would. This is not a good feeling. Our hopes fade, and we question our dreams.

I believe that most corporate fugitives totally underestimate what’s involved in running a business – because our frame of reference is completely unrealistic to the small business world.

This week, as part of the Entrepreneurs Unplugged series, I had the opportunity to speak to two successful entrepreneurs who, like many of us, struggled and zigzagged their way through the early and difficult years in their businesses.

James Roche used the wonderful analogy of a carpenter who is an apprentice and journeyman before he becomes a master. Just like we would not expect to be a master carpenter without first learning how to use tools, and then gaining experience under guidance of others, we should not expect to become masters in our businesses overnight.

Alicia Forest shared her story of being downsized from a job she loved, and how hard it was to admit a few years later that she may need to give up her business and get a job again. She turned it around, through learning new skills and by seeking help. In the process she built a six figure solo business that works for her and her young family.

I am sharing these stories because I think it’s important to get a reality check on the emotional roller coaster that comes with leaving the corporate world and becoming your own boss.

So if you struggle sometimes, I have good news for you – you’re in good company! Here are some tips to help you deal with this:

Make a commitment to yourself to do what it takes – if you can’t do this, you need to question if you really want it bad enough.

Expect bumps in the road – this is part of personal and business growth, not a sign of failure. You will experience these whether you are an apprentice, journeyman or master. How well you can learn from them, and move on, will have a direct impact on your business success. Know that you will feel overwhelmed at times and that this is part of your “contract”

Use this as your stepping off point – identify where the weaknesses are in your business, or in your mindset

Seek knowledge – learn about these areas. Learning never stops in business and in life.

Get support – don’t expect to do this alone. Join a group, find a mentor, or get a coach. You will feel lifted up just by the feeling that you’re not on your own.

 What do you need help with? I’d like to know.

No waiting for hugs

It has been a dramatic and exciting year for me and my business. The amount of personal and professional growth has been amazing.

One of the best things I did for myself in 2008 was making the commitment to continuously invest in my professional development, at a greater level and pace than I had before. Taking this step has not only enhanced my knowledge of certain areas of business, but has had the invaluable benefits of heightening my awareness level and building supportive networks.

For example, as a result of attending a conference, I met a group of people who were interested in continuing the momentum and applying our knowledge. We set up a regular weekly mastermind meeting where we share our wins, challenges, and plans, and most of all, request support from each other.

On this morning’s call I raised the topic of balancing mom time with business time, since for many women myself included, flexibility and having time for our children is one of the main reasons we started our businesses in the first place. Our discussion was insightful and helpful to me, and the group dynamic is such that sharing experiences helps each other.

When I finished the call, I asked my 7-year old daughter what she liked most about mom working at home in her own business. She said “When I want a hug, I don’t have to wait until the end of the day.”

Setting up networks that support and nurture you mean you don’t have to wait for hugs — so once again, I am humbled by the wisdom of children who seem to give you exactly the perspective you need! Happy holidays.