I have been up since 4am on a zoom call and studying to find answers and clarity around some business questions I have. It got me pondering how lucky I was to have started Maia Dreams over 4 years ago and to be able to work full time doing what I love. The privilege of being able to work for myself while building my dreams and not someone else's is a blessing. It has most definitely been a lot of work over years of dedication. It was quite the journey! The slow growth has now built momentum and grown in strength. I learned so much along the way and wanted to share just a few of those lessons.
Have a business plan. A plan that works for you to begin with that has all your information: Why you started, when you started, your mission, values, your skills, competitors, your niche, team, mentors, milestones, goals, registration details, services, marketing plan, etc. Your business plan is for you and your team at first. Once you grow, you need to consistently be changing and adding to it. If you want investors, make sure to adapt it to outline everything based on who your investor is.
I have learnt how to close a sale although it's something I still need to improve on.
To value my worth and be paid for my time. Factoring in the resources, time, preparation, delivery, travel etc. As you improve and grow so should you ability to charge for your expertise.
The more I have learnt the more I realise how much I don't know. Everyone we meet are those we can learn from. So I am learning to try listen more.
To have no fear of failing as I see them as great learning lessons. It's hard but I am willing try new things without the fear of failing.
It's not about me, it's about our customers. Yes it's important to believe in what we deliver and in our products. However, it's more important to focus on what the needs of our consumers.
Mistakes are inevitable so I like to make epic ones. To test the boundaries and see how far we can go.
I don't listen to the naysayers, or peoplewho don't believe in me. Especially those who are not doing what they love. ️
Running a business is hard work and can be taxing on your time, finances and emotions. So, you need to love what you do. Be passionate about it. Otherwise, it will be hard to keep going when the tough times roll in.
Growth mindset is crucial. Always be studying, learning and growing.
Always generate new ideas for your business. Some will work, others won't and others can be implemented later.
Road Maps are crucial to see and track your business & team progress.
Critism can be valuable. It can sometimes help you to identify how you can improve.
Know your Finances & have the right people to help you in this area.
You can't do everything in your business despite your intention to do so. For the first few years, I had to fumble my way through doing admin, book keeping, graphics, funding, sales, programme delivery, programme development, promotion, social media, marketing, website design, landing pages, etc. Now, I'm grateful to have a great core team to help. What it taught me was to know all areas of my business.
Be flexible. Yes, have business goals and a plan but be fluid if you have to move. ️
Transitioning company has taught me about the importance of leadership and that it is about the team. I'm there to help serve them (still figuring this one out).
Don't keep chasing the quick fix or the shiny object. I'm grateful that I have the fortitude to put in the time, work and years of dedication to master what I do.
Do not let Imposter syndrome stop me from doing what I love & those that I am good at.
This Tony quote I love. "People over estimate what can be done in a year and under estimate what can be done in 10". I have no intentions of ever giving up or stopping so as long as I can put one foot in front of the other.
To have absolute confidence, self belief, determination in my own success. I know that I will be successful without a shadow of doubt.
Running a business comes with a myriad of emotions. There have been many ups and downs but if you love what you are doing and are willing to work through the lows, the confusion and road blocks and then enjoy the highs and wins, it is so worth it. The amount of times I have been rejected, pushed to the edge of my comfort zone, on the brink of giving up, judged, not supported, critised, no funds coming in has been too many to count. But it has taught me how to be even more resilient, to have more confidence in my skills and abilities. The art of communication, how to improve in my leadership abilities, the ability to sell, create, develop, promote myself, our services and business. I have learnt to research and report better. Running a business teaches you so much about so many things. As long as you are willing learn more about yourself and your business, you will be able to navigate your way through.
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