To start off, I’ll have to say kudos on deciding to be an entrepreneur. Making the decision must have been a huge and uneasy step for you.
Nonetheless, the key is not just being an ‘entrepreneur’ by name but in fact, character and actions. The path to success is going to be a rollercoaster so be prepared. Not everyone can make it in a risky and tough world of figures and competition.
So here’s what to do to get you started…
#1. Eat right
You must be thinking that this tip is absurd; but, recognize the fact that from now on, you will be very busy with your business. Thus, it is necessary to keep your health up no matter what. Ensure that you have a balanced diet- carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.
#2. Exercise physically and mentally
Staying fit and on-point should be on your priority list.
Do not forget to also engage in games and puzzles. A little bit of fun will help boost your mind and keep you focused and your memory right.
#3. Get some sleep
You are probably trying to find a way to get rid of this article from your screen. How ridiculous can this tip be? Entrepreneurship demands everything but sleep. So you think.
False! To get your mind ready for the hustle and bustle, you need to have and maintain eight hours of sleep.
#4. Read as much as you can
To open you up to new perspectives and expand your mind, reading will do the trick. From fiction to non-fiction, including poetry, your mind should be exposed as much as it can.
#5. Watch the news
Keep an eye on what’s taking place around you, especially in your area of specialty and in the world at large. Knowledge goes a long way in running a business.
#6. Have a hobby
Despite your busy schedule, cut time out to do what you love the most outside the world of business. Be it basketball or baking, then engage yourself as much as you can in it. It stimulates your passion for everything else too.
#7. Keep an eye out
There is no doubt that you will have competitors doing the same thing you are doing. Be sure to watch out for any move they make, especially when they launch a new product. You should be one of the first to know about it.
#8. Start small
Remember, there is no need to rush. You’d have gotten the job fast but it wouldn’t be qualitative. So make sure you start small and slow. Then you can take it all the way up.
#9. Follow your guts
Now do not always go following your guts all the time. Ensure that it is backed by enough reasons or information. Follow your instincts when making certain decisions. You just may not be at rest if you don’t.
#10. Appreciate the challenges
As an entrepreneur, straddle your boots and be prepared to take leaps when the situation arises. It is a game of risks, without which your business might go extinct. Hence, be ready to take risks and deal with the daily challenges of running a business.
#11. Don’t be afraid to explore
If you have a desire to do a certain task, that is quite different from that your business was created for, then try to venture into it. Chances are, that might be the big break that your business needs. Don’t be afraid to explore and try your hands on new things.
#12. Get rid of negativity
One sure way to get yourself booted out of the industry is by absorbing negativity. Letting the opinions and choices of others to dictate your life and how you run your company might be your one-way ride to getting shoved out. Thus, get rid of poor attitudes and negativity once you see or notice them.
#13. Avoid perfectionism
Striving to be perfect will just be your one way to waste time. Forget the whole idea of being perfect and doing things to the letter. Just do your best and refuse to be a stickler to perfectionism.
#14. Avoid personal judgment
This applies to the people that work for you. They are bound to make mistakes at some point in time. Therefore, do not hold it against them. Rather train them up to do better next time.
#15. Set positive barriers
At times, you are your only mentor and your only disciplinarian. Make sure to set limitations to negative attitudes such as distractions and procrastination, or you could push yourself to do new things at the right time.
#16. Be penny-wise
Now do not misinterpret this to mean ‘Be tight-fisted’. All this tip is advising you to do is to ensure that you do not spend beyond your pockets. Let your expenditure be only things that are very important to you and your business.
#17. Learn to adapt
Recognize that things will not always go according to plan. Thus, get used to doing certain things out of the blue. It’s called ‘adapting’ and going with the ever-changing flow.
#18. Focus on your customers
Your business will probably be nonexistent if not for your customers. So take the time to hear them out and get their side of the story. Keep their needs and wants on top of your list. That is your best bet in progressing as a business.
#19. Create partnerships
Your business may be skyrocketing right now; however, having a partner to help with the business is ideal. You’ll be sure to get a lot of benefits if you pick the right partner.
#20. Have mentors as your guide
Find people that have been in the game of business for a while. Try and get tips and advice from them. Do not feel too proud to learn from someone else. If you were superhuman, then you wouldn’t need anyone to help you out. Sadly, you need so be sure to get someone that will guide your steps.
#21. Be your brand
There wouldn’t be any point creating a brand or product if you can’t embody what the whole brand is about. Ensure that you showcase all the attributes that your brand or product represents.
#22. Remember charity
Learn to give back to the community that you find yourself in. Either by volunteering or giving charity, you’ll be able to meet new people and get them to recognize and try out your brand.
#23. Patience (#1 Key)
Sorry to break it to you but you are not going to hit the jackpot overnight. Remember to be patient as being a successful entrepreneur takes time. Just be sure to enjoy the ride and don’t fret too much.
#24. Pay attention to feedback
Similar to paying attention to your customers, getting feedback could come from your family and employees too. Your brand or product may not have hit that mark just yet. You will only be able to know how to perfect your skills by listening to others.
#25. Stay humble
Don’t let your ego take over your personality. Remember that running a business will require support and being egotistical will drive a lot of people away. Listen to what others have to say but avoid accepting the absurd negatives.
