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Successful People Over Come These Big Challenges

You’ve heard the cliches about you being your own biggest obstacle and starting with the person in the mirror to change course. Although inspirational, these leave something to be desired, and, it’s an important element called action. It’s difficult to take on challenges, especially when it’s your own business. These will be a reality, but, it’s how we act and react that ultimately dictates the outcome. The reason successful people act, or, react in certain ways is because they accept one immutable truth — avoidance does nothing but make situations worse.

Oddly enough, just acting without a true purpose or plan, usually delivers the same consequence, which is why Zig Ziglar said many times over, “If you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time.” Successful people not only act and react in a deliberate way, they do so with a goal in mind.

Successful People Overcome these Big Challenges

The trouble for some entrepreneurs is they let other things get in the way. Let’s be clear, we all have doubts, we all are susceptible to believing the worst, and to give into negative emotions. This is why there are no self-help manuals on how to fail. Failure is something we all do naturally, success is something that’s learned. It’s a combination of experience, judgment, and attitude. When you fail, you ought step into a Thomas Edison mindset, accepting the ultimate answer might be among many failures.

Many small businesses are limited in growth by the number of hours they have in the day. They can’t scale their businesses without adding more people or automating existing processes. Automating sales and marketing processes allow small businesses to gain the efficiencies of their bigger counterparts. —The Business Journals

Within these examples, we see perseverance, but, even the most resolute can be negatively impacted by various influences. All sorts of pressures can put an entrepreneur under a lot of stress and stress stretches thin clear thinking. It’s how you deal with these that determines if, as a business owner, you will succeed or will fail. In other words, successful entrepreneurs don’t let these challenges hold them back — not even the following:

Money. This is perhaps one of the single largest challenges (read: myths) that plague the business world. While money does provide you with resources for options, that doesn’t mean said options are worthwhile. Just ask Facebook, a company valued at about $200 billion with more than a billion users worldwide. Just two years ago, in 2013, the company put a lot of resources (read: money) behind Facebook Home. It debuted with a two-year subscription price of $99. Just two months later, it drop precipitously to a mere $0.99, after consumers put-in their two-cents worth. Having to really think about spending money wisely means having to make informed decisions.
Age. The number of years you’ve lived on this planet might be relatively few or relatively long, but, it doesn’t really matter. Notice the word “relatively.” Age is only a number and it doesn’t mean that you’re naive if you’re young or wise if you’re old. Your age doesn’t give people the authority or right, to tell you what you should and should not do.
Self doubt. This is a primordial trait, and, one that’s designed to make us approach the unknown with caution. Our primitive ancestors simply didn’t know if something would be harmful or helpful until it was tried. Doubt is healthy because it forces us to take pause but it doesn’t have to be an insurmountable barrier. Use it to your advantage and don’t let it take control.
Toxic people. Successful people don’t allow toxic people in their lives. What’s more, they quickly identify such bad personalities and stay clear. The reason some avoid what’s otherwise obvious, is the ability to rationalize certain relationships thinking that the good will outweigh the bad — it won’t.

Another big challenge is one that’s very real and direct: the competition. You are nearly assured to see others succeeding in the same industry, even in the same niche. This can certainly be a discouragement, but, doesn’t have to be one. Instead, look at them as an inspiration, if he or she did it, then why can’t you do the same?

While you might have different beginnings, talents, and resources, you can use what’s at your disposal to your advantage. Set small measurable goals, achieve each one, and built up success in an incremental, sincere fashion.

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How to Get Business Referrals in Secretive Industries

May 16, 2017 No Comments

Referrals are one the most important parts of a successful business. When these come in and you deliver, more are likely on the way. In addition, these are a surefire sign that those you serve are more than satisfied and want to show support and appreciation. Unfortunately, there are industries which operate under a significant amount of discretion (read: secrecy). Examples are sports agents, investment bankers, ghostwriters, healthcare providers, and even business development professionals. Because of this, it’s a lot more difficult to get referrals. You can’t necessarily ask your clients to spread the word since they don’t want others to know what you’ve done for them. To the outside world each client is successful on his or her own and not because you provided advice, action plans, and of course work product. Although you feel a sense of accomplishment and pride, you can’t just use these experiences freely. How to Get Business Referrals in Secretive Industries Referrals are a cornerstone of doing business, and it’s what entire entities are based upon — examples include Angie’s List, Yelp, Healthgrades, and Home Advisor. These services provide consumers with real customer reviews and that relatable trust is what gets people to pickup the phone. In some industries, like those listed above, the provider might not be able to tap into the same resources. Your best source of new business is referrals from happy customers or clients. You cannot receive a better lead than one that has been sent your way with a strong referral. You cannot have a more motivated prospect arrive in your store or restaurant than someone sent there by a raving fan. —Forbes If you want to get referral business, but are in a business that’s subject to secrecy, you can still do so you just need to be a little more creative. This is especially true if it’s not just based on discretion but also guaranteed with non-disclosure agreements. Here are some ways to get business referrals in secretive industries: Use a “degrees of separation” approach. One way to get referrals when you’re subject to secrecy is through former industry insiders. Connect with individuals who use to be in the business and speak with each about being a brand advocate. The friend-of-a-friend approach is also worth giving a try to get more referrals. Ask a willing client to speak on your behalf. You might have a current or former client or two that are willing to speak with others about doing business with you and their experiences. Take advantage of this and show your appreciation with a gift, discount, or another way of saying, “Thank you.” Give potential customers more control. One thing that scares new prospects is the fear of making a big and/or long-term commitment. To overcome this objection give potential customers flexible and short terms. Openly demonstrate your plans. Possible customers might also be unsure of what you’ll be able to deliver — because of this, the secretiveness balloons into a larger problem. To combat issue openly demonstrate your plans and let him or her evaluate and ask questions. Another thing you can do is to give away a little to entice potential clients to doing business with you. By doing so you’re demonstrating your confidence in your abilities and willingness to do what it takes to earn his or her business. Want to find out about what a business coach can do for you? [shareaholic app=”follow_buttons” id=”26833294″]

How Entrepreneurs can Get Off the Hedonic Treadmill

May 20, 2021 No Comments

The hedonic treadmill is a trap that too many entrepreneurs (and others) fall into without actually realizing it. This perpetual cycle of returning to the same relative state of happiness is a phenomenon that was first officially recognized in the 1970’s. However, since that time, there’s been very little public awareness about it. Although, people of all kinds continue to experience it to this day, in particular, the most successful executives and business owners being among them. Fortunately, there are ways to escape this mindset. The Hedonic Treadmill Explained The hedonic treadmill is fairly easy to understand. It simply means that individuals return to their baseline of happiness after big accomplishments. Put another way, when someone reaches a worthwhile goal, he or she will only feel the euphoria of the accomplishment for a short period of time, and then return to his or her previous level of happiness. As soon as we hit a goal, we’re happy for a few days (or seconds) but then we quickly focus on the next (and bigger) thing we want to achieve. I’m totally guilty of this myself as well. And sure, there’s nothing wrong with that. But if you do, make sure it comes from the right place of mind. Make sure it comes from a place of abundance and not out of scarcity, or else it might just do some serious damage. Whenever you find yourself on the ‘hedonic treadmill’, it’s quite hard to get off. In fact, it’ll never stop until you consciously make it stop yourself. —Medium.com While that seems completely logical and understandable, it creates an ongoing cycle in which people attempt to return to that feeling of happiness time and again. In other words, the happiness of achieving the goal wears off and therefore, other goals must be reached to continue to feel that sense of reward. Obviously, this can easily lead to very unacceptable behaviors, including things that are ethically and morally wrong. Effective Ways Business Owners can Avoid the Hedonic Treadmill Like any other type of harmful cycle, one must recognize one’s own behavior in order to make the necessary corrections. As with other unhealthy practices, with a few strategic changes, it’s possible to step off the hedonic treadmill by doing the following: Practice gratitude. This is a very simple way to not only recognize, but relish accomplishments and put them into perspective. For instance, opening a new location in order to serve a growing customer base is a huge win for any business. However, there will be challenges with doing so and it certainly doesn’t mean there won’t be any obstacles to deal with in the future. So, feeling a sense of gratitude when it is deserved but understanding that there are still future challenges is essential. Be more optimistic. Most entrepreneurs are optimistic by the very nature. Still, there are going to be instances when even the most optimistic person lets their emotions turn pessimistic. Again, putting your thoughts and feelings into perspective will greatly help you deal with issues that arise in the course of doing business. Adopt a balanced life. Obviously, all work with very little or no play will certainly feed into someone being trapped on a business-centric, hedonic treadmill. If you are willing and able to strike a better balance, you’ll feel more satisfaction in your life overall. Accept certain limitations. Everyone has their limitations. While most entrepreneurs don’t like to accept their shortcomings, the ones who do and partner up with people who excel in areas where they lack, tend to be the most successful. So, know your limitations and play to your strengths. Set truly meaningful goals. There are many types of goals you can set as a business owner. But, the bottom line doesn’t have to revolve around all of them. For example, if you create a pleasant working environment, your employees will be grateful, which improves morale, and ultimately, makes it a great place of camaraderie. Our Client’s Top Salesperson is on the Treadmill. One of our clients has a top sales person that functions on a Hedonic Treadmill, so she has little empathy for others. As long as she keeps winning the next big deal, it reinforces the ongoing cycle of what seems to make her happy. Consequently, when deals are not closing, her demeanor causes challenges with our clients technicians and staff. What other suggestions do you have? Please take a few moments to share your thoughts and experiences so others can benefit from your unique perspective! Your input could really help someone out! Interested in learning more about business? Then just visit Waters Business Consulting Group.

The Samsung Galaxy Fold Demonstrates this Powerful Business Lesson

May 29, 2019 No Comments

The mobile technology world experienced one of the biggest public blunders of all time. Samsung shipped a number of demo units of its $2,000 foldable smartphone to several high-profile reviewers. Within 48 hours, a good number of the devices were broken. The reviewers shared their surprise and since, Samsung has delayed the release of its “Foldable Phone of the Future.” The Samsung Galaxy Fold Unfolds Unnecessary Bad Publicity To be fair, some broken due to reviewer mishandling. They mistook a part of the screen as a protective layer that all smartphones ship with. Others noticed bulges in corners near the fold. While the former did inadvertently damage the devices, the latter simply watched as the units failed. You’re anxious to get your business off the ground or get your latest product out to the public as quickly as possible. Perhaps you’ve already started your marketing and promotional campaigns. You’ve got visions of a best-selling product dancing in your head. But selling too quickly can be dangerous; there can be drawbacks if you are putting the cart before the proverbial horse. Businesses that start selling new or innovative products without taking the time to put their ducks in a row often regret their decision. —All Business It’s yet another example of a manufacturer rushing a product to market before it’s truly ready. When such bad PR situations occur, these can lead to companies going out of business outright. The Negative Effects of Rushing a Product to Market Companies rush products to market. It does happen. And, it’s a huge and completely unnecessary risk. Here’s why: Damage to reputation. Let’s begin with the obvious. While mega corporations can weather such storms, small businesses might suffer tarnishes to large to overcome. It sends the wrong message. Thomas Edison practically invented “vapor-ware,” the introduction of a product which doesn’t actually exist. When you release something prematurely, you’re sending a message you care more about turning a profit than your customers. It causes a loss of trust. If the gamble fails to payoff, it means you’ve sacrificed trust. Consumers just won’t trust your brand in the future and that’s never a good thing. Your team will also suffer. Pushing out a product before it’s ready just might lead to a loss of key employees. Some could walk away, not wanting an association with a company who isn’t willing to wait until it’s right. You’ll regret the decision. Of course, as the leader of the organization, it’s you who takes all the blame. Ultimately, you’ll have to accept making a bad decision and the consequences which inevitably follow thereafter. What other negative consequences does rushing a product to market have? Please share your thoughts and experiences by commenting! Interested in learning more about business? Then just visit Waters Business Consulting Group.