Everyone has challenges in business. If you’re not being challenged, you’re not growing. The thing is, everyone faces challenges differently. Some treat them as an obstacle to be overcome, others as an excuse. We’ve all had those moments when we throw their hands up and say ‘I can’t do it’ when you could if you asked for help. Sometimes you just need to get out of your own way.
I’ve been lucky enough to meet some truly inspiring people. They’ve overcome enormous challenges, from childhood abuse to homelessness and divorce. What’s more, they’ve thrived and now help others to succeed.
But how do you get out of your own way? Whatever the challenge, there is a way to move forward with confidence. Let’s look at some of the most common culprits…
Too much to do, too little time
We all get overwhelmed from time to time. You might even fool yourself that there’s too much and you’d be better off stacking shelves at Tesco. Trust me, they get stressed too.
There’s a whole host of time management advice out there, but reading it can feel like just another task on the to-do list. The trick is to keep it simple. Work out a realistic schedule. If you know you can’t get anything done once the kids are home, don’t try. Spend the time with them instead and get rid of some of your working parent guilt. If you need to make 150 widgets and each one takes 20 minutes you’re not going to get them all done in a day.
Even if you can only find an hour to sit down and make a plan, it will be worth it. It will give you the confidence to take a break knowing that everything’s covered.
I don’t want to seem pushy
I know how it is. You feel as if touting for business is a bit cheesy. If you’re British you’re taught that blowing your own trumpet is unseemly. Frankly, you’d rather just hide in a corner.
I used to feel like this until I realised that there’s a right and a wrong way to do it. It can be easier to start by thinking about who you can help. That way, if someone asks a question that you can answer you’re not self-promoting, you’re being helpful. Start small. Join a couple of Facebook groups that are relevant to your business and if someone asks a question you can answer, post a reply.
It’s also worth remembering that the pushy marketing techniques that you hate are equally off putting to everyone else. Who wants to be the person who runs into the middle of the networking event shouting ‘look at me, aren’t I wonderful’? No, me neither.
Other people know more than me
This is a big one. Putting yourself out there as any kind of expert is a bit scary. You feel as if other people in your sector have more experience and know more than you. This will never change. I know people with six figure businesses who are in awe of people with seven figure businesses. I still get intimidated by writers who’ve never done any other job.
The fact is, you are unique. No-one else has had the same experiences as you or works in the same way as you. Even if you think you work in an overcrowded marketplace, there is clear blue water for you somewhere. Sometimes, a new client might have chosen you simply because they like you.
If you lack experience, only time and practice will improve that. If you need new skills there are resources to help you learn them.
Beyond that it’s just a case of being brave.
What challenges are you facing? Leave a comment and let me know!
Further reading
Do you need to get out of your comfort zone to get out of your own way? My blog on being brave could help.
If you need more support to gain confidence The Mindset Guys really know their stuff.
You don’t have to be an extrovert to succeed in business – learn more about the Quiet Revolution.