Having written about Why it is Important to Face Your Fears of Becoming an Entrepreneur, here are some practical actionable tips that have helped me to overcome my fears about starting a business and becoming a creative business owner:
Find a Support Network
Living in a digital world means plenty of platforms to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and creative business owners to share the highs and lows of your journey with. And, if you can’t find one that suits, start your own.
Find a mentor
Having the support and encouragement of a creative entrepreneur whom you admire, someone who has travelled or is travelling along the path you are about to take can help boost your confidence in starting your entrepreneurial journey. A good mentor is a valuable sounding board to help you work through all those decisions and questions you will have, and can help hold you accountable to accomplishing your goals.
Draw Strength From Past Experiences
Think back to a time you successfully faced a fear head-on, how did it make you feel? If the feeling was positive then draw on that feeling to see you through your current doubts.
Create A Pros And Cons List
List the benefits and your fears of becoming a creative business owner, don’t hold back write down everything that comes to mind. Once you have done this then go through the list addressing each item, asking yourself questions as to why you feel that way. Pay particular attention to your cons and try to come up with solutions to neutralise and turn them into pros.
Continually Remind Yourself Why The Work You Are Doing Or Planning to Do Is Important
The difference your business will make either to yourself, your family, your end-user, your community, or whatever it may be. Doing this will help keep you motivated and focused on the bigger picture. And will keep you moving forward when you feel like giving up.
Take Time To Reflect
If you have started your entrepreneurial journey take some time to reflect on how far you have come, carry out an audit of what is working and what isn’t and why, and remember to celebrate your wins no matter how small.
Find Words To Live By
A favourite inspirational quote from a parent, friend, teacher, mentor, or someone you admire pinned to a notice board or written somewhere you can see it often can do wonders to keep you pushing forward.
Keep Learning
Be aware of what is happening in your industry to build your sector knowledge. Things like reading (blogs, books, magazines) a short inspirational passage, or listening to a podcast or audiobook once a day can do wonders for giving you a burst of energy and enthusiasm. Other options include taking a course, workshop, attend a conference, all these things can help build your confidence in being a creative entrepreneur, and keep you moving forward.
These are just some the ways I have found useful to overcome my fears of being a creative entrepreneur, I would love to hear some of your suggestions in the comments?
– Tapiwa
[Image credit: Photo by Chad Madden on Unsplash]