One thing that separates entrepreneurs from ‘wantrepreneurs’ is confidence. It’s the solid, firm self-assurance that allows people to cross over, making the dream business a reality. The thing about confidence though is, it’s not built overnight. Even those who have been doing business for years would admit that they have their occasional bouts of self-doubts. Nonetheless, confidence is achievable, even at the start of your entrepreneurial career. The key is to just focus on these aspects:
Preparation
No one goes to battle without a gear. The gears aren’t just for attack and protection, but boldness as well. When you know you’re equipped, and you’ve gotten ready, you become bolder and more courageous even at the face of uncertainties. Preparation then is key when starting your business. Do your homework. Research about the industry you’re getting into. Study the trends. Look at the existing businesses closely, both those who have gone successful and those who have failed. Take notes of what worked and what could have worked better. From here, you’ll be able to come up with a short list of business ideas and opportunities to explore. But it doesn’t stop there. Talk to mentor about it. A long-time entrepreneur would help you filter through these concepts, and find the best that would fit your passions and personality. They can coach you in writing your business plan, too, the ultimate measure of your preparedness. With knowledge, expert advice, and an outline of your endeavor, you can level up your confidence bit by bit.
Experience
Most aspiring entrepreneurs lack self-confidence because they lack experience. So, they tend to hold off getting into business. But the truth is, you can only gain the confidence and relevant experience you need in your business once you’re, guess what, immersed at your business already. So don’t look for experience elsewhere. Even with some hesitations, take the plunge. As you navigate your business, commit booboos along the way, and experience first-hand victories, you’ll learn. You’ll be more confident at what you do. If you’re not ready to go all in though yet, it might be helpful to consider franchising opportunities. Brands offer training programs as part of the package, so you’ll have the chance to get a feel of what it’s like to run a business. There are a lot of opportunities out there you can try. You can go into the printing industry, opening a t-shirt franchise or the food service industry, setting up a pizza store at your locale.
Community
An entrepreneur isn’t a lone ranger. You can easily get trapped in the cyle of self-doubt when you don’t have a community that would encourage you and get you out of your head. So surround yourself with people who’ll bring out your confidence, who’ll let you be the best version of you. Don’t take for granted the bonding time with your family and friends. Even as your business gets all the more demanding as it grows, don’t skip your kids’ piano recitals or soccer games. Keep them close to you. Of course, don’t forget your professional networks as well. You can gain confidence with business operations you’re not too familiar with when you have the best accountants, attorneys, and marketing specialists in your team. So seek them out.
Boost Your Confidence
Again, confidence is what distinguishes aspiring entrepreneurs from the full-fledged ones. Be part of the latter. Boost your confidence by preparing well, getting yourself immersed in the business, and finding your community.