If you’ve expected/are expecting I’m sure you’ll agree that despite popular belief there is no tell-all book that can prepare you for the journey you’re about to embark upon (as a survivor 😂 I can honestly say- it’s a lot.). Knowing this did not stop me from doing what many new parents do: buy all the books, obsess over the baby blogs, spam text “what if” scenarios to every parent you know, research every theory (ok maybe I was a little EXTRA whatever!! 😂), and more! While the content was certainly a helpful guide, nothing taught me “what to expect” more than well- EXPECTING 😂.
Similarly, opening your own small business can be a daunting journey. The world is FILLED with content and “experts” alike ready to sell you the secret formula, tell-all tale, on what to expect when opening a small business. I know because when my fiancé and I opened our businesses, like many other budding CEO’s, we went looking. As the daughter of a life-long entrepreneur and successful small business owner, and now a small business owner myself, I’ll share what I experienced while “expecting” mine (and my fiancé’s) small business.
1. The “ocean of motivation”: Some days the dams are breaking and you don’t have enough hands or time to execute your small business (SB) goals. On those days you feel like a rockstar, and it’s easy to take the necessary steps to move your business forward. On other days it’s low tide. “Real life” kicks in and you realize that sometimes it’s hard to prioritize your SB goals, and everything seems so out of reach. In my opinion those are the days that separates a CEO from everyone else, those are the days that require “digging in.” “Digging in” looks different for everyone- in times of “low tide” I usually allow myself time to rest, recharge, and reset.
*Tips: Challenge yourself to create a schedule to hold yourself accountable for your time. Schedule time to work on your SB goals. Dreams don’t work unless you do.
2. Haters: This is so ugly and I hate to even give these people the five seconds of fame they so desperately desire, but I can’t mince the truth. Everyone won’t be able to see your vision, and that’s okay. Don’t let these people deter you from your goals. Take their snide/discouraging comments in stride and bask in knowing that your decision to pursue a goal already separates you from them. PERIOD.
*Tip: Add these people to your list of motivations and keep it moving, your actions will speak louder than your words.
3. Questions: and we had a MILLION! That is totally normal, let them flow! You’re new to this, so give yourself some grace. Don’t get sucked in by all the “get rich quick” material for sale out there. There is just as much and JUST as valuable information available online for FREE. The truth of the matter is there’s no handbook written to match your situation perfectly, and sometimes you’ve gotta wing it! Do your research, trust your gut, and don’t be afraid to ASK!
*Tips: NETWORK! Join Facebook groups of other CEO’s in your area. Learn as much as you can from those that are already successful doing what you’re looking to do, no one can provide better tips than them.
4. Paperwork 🙄: After registering our LLC’s with the state of Georgia we received A TON of mail. Some important documents for our records, but mostly vendors looking to sell us workplace signage, office supplies, heavy machinery (idk what this was about 😂), and just about everything else. Don’t be alarmed by the red letters and (sometimes) demanding sales pitches. Read & reread, if you have any questions about paperwork you’ve received call your Secretary of State office and they’ll be glad to help.
*Tip: Get a file cabinet/binder. Put all your important documents in one place to avoid frustrating delays (just trust me on this one 😅)
5. Doubts: We all have the thought “is the risk worth the reward?” In my (unprofessional) opinion a healthy amount of doubt is necessary for the mind of any budding CEO. For me the pressure of “will I pull this off” is kind of thrilling (in a weird nerve wrecking way, don’t judge me! 😅). Thrilling or not doubt is very REAL, natural, and hands down the biggest threat to your SB goals. Your audience won’t trust you unless you trust yourself. Have faith that what you have to offer the world is valuable, BECAUSE IT IS.
*Tip: Take giving up off the table, it’s literally not an option. Prove yourself wrong, trust your vision. If you’ve made it this far you’re built for this, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
6. Support: When you’re still working out the kinks of your SB idea (and even after) it’s easy to convince yourself that you won’t receive any support. And to be real, sometimes in the beginning 👀 it’s a little scarce. But, what I can say confidently is that you will be pleasantly surprised!! You’ve put your heart and soul into this and people can see that! We’ve received unbelievable support from our friends, family, and even strangers! Don’t count yourself out.
*Tips: Don’t minimize your support system, no matter the size, don’t take them for granted. Prioritize customer/client appreciation. Give back to the community. Support other small business owners (ex: liking/sharing company posts, shopping, referring them to family and friends etc.).
While I hope my tips may help in your pursuit of information, much like most other healthy pursuits, the old saying does ring true, “experience is the best teacher.” There is no “perfect” plan, just a plan that’s perfect for you. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have. Good luck!
-Riss
Click it! CEO
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