2023 Recap – Entrepreneur Version

I can’t believe it’s almost 2024.?

This is my second year now to write the “entrepreneur version” and to me it’s an achievement. I went into this “world” taking a bet on myself and my skillset, and if I’m being honest, I wasn’t a 100% sure if I could make this work.

1.5+ years as a business owner, taught me the equivalent of 5 years (maybe more) in corporate – it’s almost a crash course. But here’s what I’ve learnt, hoping that you might find any of it useful.?

As always, try to read this with any hat you want to wear (an entrepreneur, an employee, or as a human being – no titles needed)

Here we go ...

• You can learn ANYTHING, so long as you want to. Yes, you are better at some things than others, and yes, you’ve gained experience in certain areas, but if you must grow, transition, pay bills, grow a business & there’s something you need to learn – you can. Trust me, if I did it, so can you.
• In such an ever-changing world, “adapting” isn’t enough anymore. If you want to be ahead & keep growing, learning to “adjust” is essential, learning to “pivot” is a huge advantage. If the market/your clients/ your environment bring up new challenges or opportunities rise to the occasion, you might discover that the diversion, is way better than the road you were set on to start with.
• An inflated ego leaves no room to grow. Remember that what got you to where you were was your openness to learn, to connect and to make a difference. Stay grounded, keep your “beginner” mindset, and strive to remain humble.
• This year, more than any other, I’ve learnt to forgive. People (and situations) can be unfair at times, but if they come back with a heartfelt apology, don’t burn bridges. You’ll also need someone to cut you some slack one day, no one is perfect.
• EVERYONE matters. Yes, it has very little to do with the title, or the setup – if you have something good to give to the world, give it a 150% every day, on every platform. Whether you’re speaking in front of a group of 5 or 500, when you deliver value – you’ll attract value.
• Finally, and this is my big one. It’s OK to have your moments when you’re not sure what’s next, or where you’re headed. Everyone has those moments – take a deep breath in, go back to the drawing board, and re-evaluate.

If you’ve read this, know that I’m grateful to have the opportunity to write to you, and to share my thoughts with you.

I hope you found this useful. I pray that 2024 is kind, generous and filled with peace for you, us, and the world.

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Love and light always,

Noor

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