There is so much to think of when starting a business, and you can work smarter not harder with the right tips. I started working from home nearly two decades ago and I’d love to share with you some of the things I wish I had known before I ever started.
These are tips that would have saved me so much time, money and frustration in starting a business. Some of these tips I got as words of wisdom from mentors along the way. Other tips have come from personal experience and reading these books – the Best Books Everyone Should Read When Starting a Business.
Whether you plan to start an online business, or a side hustle, here are some of the best tips to know beforehand. You may also want to check out these blog posts:
85 Side Hustle Ideas that anyone can do
How to Make Multiple Income Streams
Work from Home – Getting Started Guide
1. Plan For Success
Most people miss this critical first step and therefore fail to successfully launch and ultimately don’t win. Trust me, I myself have done this too and it’s a painful thing.
Instead, when starting a business set realistic expectations and make a game plan for success. This means doing your research, creating a business plan, and ensuring you have the financial resources to make your business a reality. Make sure you know how your venture will actually make money! Many people will start a venture only to discover they aren’t making money, or making very little money. Invest your time early on and ask yourself the hard questions so you an start successfully.
10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Starting a Business
2. It Takes Hard Work
No question starting a business is hard work. But, as any successful entrepreneur will tell you, it’s worth it. So be prepared to put in long hours, make sacrifices, and do whatever it takes to get your business off the ground.
3. You Need To Be Passionate
If you’re going to be successful in business, you need to be passionate about what you’re doing. This means being excited about your product or service and believing in what you’re selling. If you’re not passionate about your business, it will be challenging to motivate yourself to keep going when times get tough.
4. Believe In Yourself
Starting a business is a risky venture, and there will be times when you doubt yourself. But if you don’t believe in your ability to succeed, you’ll never make it. You need to have faith in your idea and your own ability to see it through.
Plus, most people don’t THINK successful. They let all of their fears, doubts and worries creep into their head. They allow what other people say to them to hold weight, even if it isn’t true or isn’t what they need to hear. So this means you have to say good-bye to the Negative Nellies and nay-sayers and shush that little voice in your head. Need help? Check out our post – Remarkable Books Everyone Should Read When Starting a Business
5. Be Prepared To Pivot
No matter how well you plan, there will be times when you need to make changes to your business. Maybe your original concept isn’t working out the way you hoped, or you discover a new opportunity that you want to pursue. Be prepared to make changes and adapt as your business grows.
One of the ways I make money is through my blog, Momalot. It was founded in 2018 and over the years I’ve had to consistently change my content to match my audience. As an entrepeneur you’ve got to be nimble.
6. It’s Not All About The Money
Don’t get into business just for the money. Sure, you need to be profitable, but you’re likely to be disappointed if that’s your only motivation. So instead, focus on creating something you’re passionate about, and the money will follow.
Put yourself in the mind of your client or audience. What would they want? How can you add value for them? I once had a wise mentor who shared the phrase “dollars follow value.” I’ve never forgot that because it is so true! People have time for what they value. In your own life you can see this play out.
7. You’re Not In It Alone
One of the best things about being an entrepreneur is that you’re not in it alone. There’s a whole community of people who are passionate about business and willing to help you succeed. Seek advice and mentorship from others, and you’ll be surprised at how far you can go.
Starting a business is a big undertaking, but if you’re prepared and willing to work hard, it can be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. Keep these tips in mind as you get started, and you’ll be on your way to success.
Getting Support
You might be in business by yourself but you’re not alone. Join our growing community on Facebook or sign up for our Getting Started mailing series.
