It's so easy to get discouraged when starting something new and things just aren't going as planned, especially when that new thing is your own woman-owned small business.
I think we've all been there in general, yet alone as business owners; the plans just aren't working, your encouragement is waning, and that spark is barely even a flicker anymore. I get it, trust me! I experienced this recently as a matter-of-fact. I was ready to throw in the towel, and just say forget it!
I'm sure you have heard the rest of the inner dialogue on this mental reel...
- "I'm not good at this,"
- "This was such a bad idea,"
- "I just don't have what it takes,"
- "I've made so many mistakes,"
- "I'm a FAILURE,"
- "No one wants my products," and on, and on, and ON!
Once that negative inner voice starts, it can be hard to stop it. But I want to encourage you to stop letting those messages auto-play in your head and don't give up! You have exactly what it takes to do whatever you set out to do - and if you don't, then go find it from someone who does. Here's what I mean:
Surround Yourself with Like-minded/Business Owners: I'm sure you've heard the saying you become like who you hang around. Well this can apply in-person or even virtually. Begin looking for social media groups and online forums in your area of interest. Go to a Meetup, research EventBrite, get out there and meet other people doing what you're trying to do. I belong to quite a few crafting groups on Facebook (FB) and subscribe to numerous newsletters for various bloggers, crafters, and businesses
Find a Mentor: Find someone in your area of interest/business that can assist and teach you from their mistakes. A great place to start is on social media and find a Group to join. I was fortunate that my Mentor was my neighbor and she has assisted me in more ways than she probably knows; I literally started crafting because of her. Of course over the years she has become my friend, but business-wise she has really encouraged me and been nothing but a wealth of knowledge. Y'all will be hearing me speak of her often I'm sure.
Training/Education: So you thought you could just jump in and do this without any additional training right?! WRONG. Even if you don't need training doing your trade/craft, you may need some help with actually running a business, creating a budget, sticking with a budget, buying inventory, and the list goes on and on. Don't be afraid to get additional training or improve yourself through classes.
My final words on this topic, as I speak over myself, is to stay encouraged and don't give up. Your path is not, and will not be the same as the person next to you - so don't worry if someone appears to be going faster or doing better than you. You cannot fail if you keep moving forward, showing up, and putting in the work. It won't be easy, but Don't Give Up!
“There is no failure except in no longer trying.” ―Elbert Hubbard