Confessions of a Business Newbie

Starting a business is an exciting, challenging, and HUMBLING experience. I spent the last 20 years of my career being the person people came to for all of the answers. As a business newbie, I quickly realized that there was a lot I didn't know. Say what?! Through trial and error, I learned the hard way the importance of networking, setting realistic goals, and dealing with the inevitable "fair-weather friends." As I reflect on 2023, here are a few things I learned.

Where did my "friends" go? ??

So let me get this straight, when I had a big title and big budgets, you called me back. And now you don't. Who am I kidding? No one in HR has big budgets, but you get the point. One of the hardest parts of being a business newbie is not hearing back from the people you helped along the way. This can be a tough pill to swallow, but it's important to remember that it's not personal. It's just business.

The best way to deal with fair-weather friends is to simply let them go. Don't waste your time trying to win them back. They're not worth it. And if they are, there are reasons and they come back on their own timeline.

Instead, focus on building relationships with people who you are truly interested in. It’s time to give to other people, nurture new relationships and new ways of working, in order to see new growth - both personally and in your work.

The best way to build strong relationships is to just be you. If you don’t want to work with someone - don’t! You’re doing your own thing for a reason - and I bet one is to be surrounded by people you value. People can spot a fake from a mile away. So don't try to be someone you're not. Just be yourself, and the right people will be drawn to you.

Networking is not a four-letter word (literally) ???

If your network is your net-worth, I am rich! And yet, unless you are top of mind for people, in their inbox, in their text, through your writing, then this currency is just underwater equity.

Reach out! Reach out! Reach out!?

• Create a database of contacts and make the effort to keep in touch with them regularly. This doesn't mean you have to send them a daily email or call them every week, but it does mean staying on their radar and letting them know what you're up to. You can do this by sending them a monthly newsletter, connecting with them on LinkedIn, or simply sending them a friendly email every few months.
• Join industry organizations and attend events. This is a great way to meet potential clients and partners, and it also allows you to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in your industry. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and introduce yourself to people. You never know who you might meet and what opportunities might come your way.
• Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help or advice from more experienced professionals. There are many people who are willing to help you succeed, and you'd be surprised at how much you can learn from them. Just be respectful of their time and make sure you're not taking advantage of their generosity.

Seems Like a Realistic Goal to Me…??

But is it, really? Just be honest. While it's important to dream big, it's equally important to be realistic about what you can achieve in the short term. Setting your sights too high can lead to disappointment and discouragement, which can quickly derail your progress. (And if you work from home, like I do, it makes you procrastinate by doing so much laundry. So, so much laundry). Listen to the productivity experts and break down those goals into manageable timelines. This will make them seem less daunting and more achievable, and you'll be more likely to stay motivated and on track.

When setting goals, it's also important to be realistic about your timeline. Don't expect to achieve everything overnight. It takes time and effort to build a successful business. Be patient and persistent, and don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately.?

Finally, it's important to be flexible and adaptable when it comes to your goals. Things don't always go according to plan, and you may need to adjust your goals as you go along. One of my favorite sayings, “Man plans. God laughs”. That's okay! Just be sure to stay focused on your overall vision and make adjustments as needed. With hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, you can crush it!

What’s up 2024??

Having a great partner makes all the difference. I’m super grateful to be on this trip with Wei-Li Chong and 2024 is committed to living our company's beliefs more than ever.

1. Be All In - this year, in work, family, and love, I will be delivering in spades.?
2. Challenge the Status Quo - Why? Because it’s important. And also, the world is boring without doing this.
3. Trust Our Differences - All people and all companies are different. My commitment is to finding the very best in all to deliver the service and friendship deserved.
4. Be the Anti-Consultant Partner - in work and in life, no one has ever called me to play it safe. Onward with that philosophy!

And hey, want to make your company more profitable? That’s what we do.? We are waiting to hear from you (here ).

And, and, looking for an experienced operator & executive coach for your C-suite? Call me. ??

Here’s to a terrific 2024!

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