. . . because you don't have a business degree and feel inadequate?
As women, it often seems as if we have a corner on the market for feeling inadequate or unable to do something because we don't have a degree telling us we can.
While it's true that a business degree goes a long way to empowering women with the tools and confidence to start up a business, it isn't, ultimately, what will make you succeed.
3 Simple Ways to Stop Shooting Yourself in the Entrepreneurial Foot.
1. Nip inadequate thoughts in the bud.
You know the one: “Who do you think you are starting up a business without a business degree?”
Calm that voice by realizing that no one starts up a business, even someone with a business degree, all by herself. Skills can be learned, books read, coaches found, and support people hired.
2. Is it fear or resistance?
Figure out whether you are experiencing fear or resistance. Here's how to tell:
- Fear makes you run.
- Resistance makes you question.
Many confuse fear with resistance, believing that if you feel resistant toward something, that that’s an indicator that you shouldn’t do it. Not so.
Before you conclude that “maybe this wasn’t such a good idea,” hold the phone! Take some time to figure out what resistance is telling you. Do you need to do some more research? Take things a little slower? Go in another direction?
Answer the questions that resistance asks, instead of collapsing into fear.3. Don't make a decision in the heat of the moment.
Instead, project yourself into the future and ask yourself questions from that vantage point.
Perspective is everything when it comes to making a decision. Decisions made in the heat of the moment, when your heart’s pounding and thoughts racing are usually not the decisions that are in your best interest. So wait until things have cooled down.
Then, project yourself into the future. From the perspective of one year from now, write out your thoughts to these three questions:
- Last year was an amazing year for me. I accomplished so much. What were some of these accomplishments?
- What am I so glad I did?
- What do I wish I would have done?
This perspective will help you get in touch with what’s important to you.
Certainly food for thought -- especially that first one. What do you think?
Susan L. Reid
Inner Samurai Business Expert
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