It is hard to feel encouraged when surrounded by men in the same career field as you are. As you walk down the corridor, you wonder what they must be thinking of you, mingling with the lions; so to speak.
Of course women have been notorious for their anxiety over the perceptions others have of them; not wanting to fail publicly or let anybody down. This and many more form part of the reason women are hesitant to play the game in a man’s world.
Well no need to fret. And yes ill bring up the cliche “Whatsoever a man can do, a woman do better”. There, I said it, the world did not stop. In the meantime, here are a few tips on how to become the best woman entrepreneur you will ever meet and grow your business at the same time.
#1. Confidence
There is no way you can make it in a ‘man’s world’ without any confidence. If you do not believe in yourself, who else would you expect to believe in you?
Therefore, be strong and believe in whatever decision you make. Do not underestimate yourself and put yourself in a shell. There will definitely be others that will make you feel less important, be it intentionally or otherwise; however, be your own mentor and push towards your goals.
#2. Find your band of thieves
This does not mean breaking the law. Hold your horses!
It just advices you to find a conducive environment where you could learn and also contribute for a just cause. Do not surround yourself around people who constantly discriminate you. Rather, make sure you are surrounded by creativity and efficiency and a people that are ready to treat everyone indiscriminately.
#3. Flexibility & Balance
Life as a woman and an entrepreneur could be said to be harder and more demanding compared to that of a guy. Women have to maintain a balance between work and personal life which is not as easy for most men.
They tend to want to please everyone and have everyone’s approval. They go above and beyond to prove their worth, even with the knowledge that they are at that breaking point.
However, this should not be so. You ought to know that not everyone will approve of you. As a result, you must remain true to yourself.
Be bold enough voice out your opinions and perceptions and do not take it too personally if they are rebutted.
#4. Listen to your inner voice
Many a times, you may hear your inner voice, telling you to carry out or not carry out a particular action. It is also usual for women to resist that voice and go with their head because they want to prove a point.
Nonetheless, try to listen to your inner voice and see what it is telling you is plausible or not, beneficial or not. Stop trying to shun away your instincts.
#5. Accept that mistakes are bound to happen
One thing women seem to struggle with is handling the fact that they made a mistake, that they were wrong. You do not have to have things as perfect as watching a good and edited movie.
Accept that you will let people down at some point. Being too hard on yourself will kill your confidence. Business success is directly tied to our ability to believe in yourself, a 100%.
#6. Do not jump into decisions
You may be faced with a tough decision and may feel obliged to make a decision as soon as possible. Take your time to evaluate the situation. Sleep on it and give it some real thought.
You do not have to prove a point by jumping into quick decisions which may lead to a lot of damage. It is better to have some time to think through- take a week if you must, and then give a decision which will more likely work out.
Also, ensure that you do not make assumptions regarding anything related to your business. Seek out information and ask questions instead of making assumptions.
#7. Hire your ‘best’ team
A supportive team at work will champion your success. They are all the guidance you need and the additional voice that will help in ensuring your business breakout.
Find a team that will challenge you, input ideas and work hard to complete tasks and responsibilities assigned to them.
Build your “team” in both the workplace and beyond. Make you also surround yourself with positive people who will build your confidence. Recognize when you are not being valued and when others may be trying to make you feel inferior. The key is to make sure you are in an environment where you can succeed.
