In the world of entrepreneurship, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “If I just had this,” or “Once I get that, I’ll be successful.” We often fixate on the future, yearning for things we don’t have and desiring circumstances beyond our control.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned as an entrepreneur is that at this very moment, we possess everything necessary to make progress for where we are currently in life. Progress is driven by what we have in our hands or at our disposal today. Let me repeat that: you will see the small wins using what you have been given up to this moment. Don’t underestimate what you currently possess, because there is value in those things.
Countless entrepreneurs tell me they need more funding, a bigger space, a larger marketing budget, more equipment, extra help, an assistant—the list goes on. The reality is that many aren’t making the most of what they currently have. In fact, they have not even scratched the surface of their potential.
Taking Inventory of What You Have
It’s essential to take inventory of what is available to you. Many entrepreneurs aren’t aware of the resources they already have at their disposal. Often suffering from shiny-object syndrome, they chase after whatever is new, trending, or seemingly easy to obtain, with little to no knowledge or effort. However, anything that requires no experience or working knowledge on the subject, or is easy to obtain, is unlikely to provide the substantial help you are hoping for. Instead, it will create hindrances and cost you more money and time in the long run.
How to Overcome These Challenges
How can you fix these problems? It’s simple. There are no three steps to a better you, no affirmations, or books that will help. You’ll need to get real with yourself. Understand why you chase the easy solutions, look for trends, or refuse to acknowledge what is right in front of you. Here’s a hint: you might be looking for validation from others or aiming to grow to a status before you are ready to fill those shoes. This is a common issue I’ve encountered while mentoring business owners.
The number one question to ask yourself is: how far could I get with what I have available right now? Think of it as if you are hitchhiking across the United States with only $50. You would see how far those $50 would get you. Once you reach your stop, you’ll look for more opportunities to earn money, make connections, and build relationships. Use those resources and associations to get you a bit further toward your goal. Then, repeat the process until you reach your destination. Business works the same way. Make the most of your resources, and as you take on new opportunities, money will flow in, allowing you to expand naturally.
Knowing When to Expand
Small business owners often ask me when they should take specific actions. My answer is always this: growing your business is like carrying a baby. When you experience labor pains, it means the baby is coming. When you feel the labor pains of your business, you will instinctively know when it’s time to increase or expand. If you aren’t feeling the labor pains, then it isn’t time. For example, if you are considering hiring an assistant but can handle the workload yourself, don’t just hire an assistant because you think it’s a sign that “you’ve made it” as a business owner. Trust me, once the workload becomes too much for you, you’ll feel the labor pains, and it will become obvious that you need to hire an employee.
Remember, your progress in business will come through making the most of what you have right now. Embrace the resources at your disposal, work diligently, and trust the process. The growth will come naturally as you continue to take steps forward.
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