Some reflections so far...

Exactly 2 weeks ago I was sat on my sofa in floods of tears. I'd just told my wife Sarah that things weren't going to plan...

The previous couple of weeks had been lonely and tough, I'd actively invited "feedback" (read that as unintentional criticism) and allowed the negativity to take hold. A rising feeling of self doubt, self worth and inability, had set in. We were racing through our savings, and I was heading down. Through the fog, I told Sarah that I thought that I needed to go and find a job.

Sarah's response... Stop being such an idiot. You were BORN to do this. You've created your perfect job. You're incredible and what you're going to do for people is amazing. I support you completely, I love you, and for the good of our family, you need to shake it off, put your game face on, do those weird affirmations that you do, and go MAKE IT HAPPEN. She then made me dance to shake myself out of the negative mood. "Dont give up on your dream, baby; You got this".

It worked...

Less than an hour later, buoyed by her love, positivity encouragement and gentle kick up the arse, I was in the cafe talking to someone who's now turned into a client :).

Fast forward 2 weeks (almost to the minute), and I'm sitting on the same sofa with my boy Max. There are no tears, although if they were present, they would be joyful. I'm about to start my first planning session with my first client, and it's going to be awesome. 

I'm humbled and grateful to report that I now have 3 paying clients, and a diary full of opportunity in the weeks to come.

There are some lessons that I've learned from my reflections this morning which may help if you're experiencing similar feelings.

1) Being in business is tough, it's lonely and it comes with way more down sides than most of us would ever care to admit (especially in the early days). The thing is, it's meant to be that way. It sorts the good from the not so good, and the wheat from the chaff. Most of all, business rewards focussed activity. They say you reap what you sow, and it's true, so get up, get out there and MAKE THINGS HAPPEN.

2) Stay focussed. There are so many ways to spend your time, infinite distractions and always a huge pile of things to do. When you can’t see the wood for the trees, it’s important to remember Pareto, and just focus on the 20% that will most likely bring the result.

3) Create a plan and BELIEVE in the plan. Almost every small business owner that I speak to, admits that they don’t have a plan. The fact is, you’re much more likely to achieve what you want in life when you have a destination in mind and a map to help you get there. It's certainly the case for me.

4) Having people around you that love and support you is so SO important in business, but more importantly life. Those caring, level headed and empathetic souls that tether you to the rocks when times are tough are invaluable. If you want them to be there when times are tough, you MUST make time for them when the seas are calm.

5) Don't give up.

Mrs Mols, thanks for making me do your stupid shake it off dance. You changed our lives and I love you millions.