Being a founder is hard

BEING A FOUNDER IS HARD!

I work with a lot of founders, at various stages of their journey in building their company. I myself have been through that journey multiple times (potentially a glutton for punishment ??) and if there is one thing that stands out as the most common feeling and experience amongst this group of BRAVE individuals it is this - THIS IS HARD YO!

When asked what the leading reason for considering starting their own business or becoming their own boss most non-founders state freedom as their number one driver.?So here are some thoughts from someone who has been there, is there, and will likely always be there...

DON’T KID YOURSELF!?Being a founder really is hard, in ways that you wouldn't imagine before getting started, and it's super easy to get caught up in the never-ending list of responsibilities, this is not a freedom pass. This is 18 full time jobs and you are suddenly answerable to everyone that has joined you on your journey. I mean your staff, your partners, your suppliers, your clients and customers, your family and friends, your investors, your authorities, your bank relationship manager, your landlord and of course, yourself.?

Yes it is overwhelming, yes it is uncomfortable, yes it is tiring, yes it is stressful.?

I wouldn’t change a second of it!

The learning curve you’ll go through by rolling up your sleeves and picking up the gauntlet far outweighs any education, surpasses any strategic plays and gives you a perspective that you just wouldn’t get otherwise.?

The satisfaction in knowing what you have achieved and drive and confidence that come (with time) are replenishing – but boy do you earn it.?

PRIORITISE

One of the most important strategies I find for managing the responsibilities of being a founder is setting clear priorities. SO MUCH EASIER SAID THAN DONE!?

As a founder, you're constantly being pulled in different directions, and it's essential to have a clear understanding of what's most important for you and your company.?

I’m a list maker. My mentor and best friend recently bought me a ReMarkable (I think he was genuinely worried I was single handedly contributing to the climate crisis with the number of notebooks I went through) and its been a game changer. Now my lists can be organized. Business by business (yes I run more than one) team by team, function by function or day by day. Whatever works to keep calm and clarity in the chaos of my “to do’s”?

But lists is just my way of managing, I know some use trackers, voice notes, diary softwares – the point is find what works for you and stick with it. Consistency is key! Mark off what needs to be done, find a way to do it, and then cross it off when completed. Take the buzz of completing something as a win too! Celebrating successes are paramount!

CHILL

Its also important that you take breaks, nobody else is responsible for taking care of you, and too often you go straight to the bottom of your own priority list. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle (boy do I hate that word – it’s hard work, not hustle!) and forget to take time for yourself, but self-care is essential for avoiding burnout and trust me burnout is for real!?

Make time for exercise, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones, and don't feel guilty about taking a day off when you need it. This also is easier said than done.?

CALL IN BACK UP!

Build a support network, and more importantly use them. These people have your success and wellbeing at heart. These are people that can help you, in whatever aspect you need. You'll be pulled in different directions and needed to address things you never even considered before being in this position - Whether it's hiring a team, bringing on a co-founder, or leaning on a mentor, it's essential to have a support system in place. Surround yourself with people who understand the challenges of being a founder and what it is you are building in your business. Its super easy to let the responsibility over run you and try to cover everything alone. Find your biggest fans, and be theirs in return. We all need pep from time to time and after all we are STRONGER TOGETHER.

And, for now, it’s the weekend – to all those founders out there – YOU DID IT! Another week done and you should be proud. For all those future founders out there – DO IT! You’ll never regret it.?

James Kevan Steve Mayne Mohamed Khaled Jamie Marland Chris Redmond ???? Jen Watson James Caan CBE Matthew Golding