As I watched the Olympics this year, several analogies came to mind in regard to being an entrepreneur. To begin, it was the apparent determination to succeed that brought about invitations for those finalists to participate at the games.
Economies have been very slow over the past number of years. And many entrepreneurs have felt they were under water as if they were alongside the swimmers, not knowing if they too would rise to the surface. Others have attempted very large and exciting projects but were overwhelmed by all the components requiring attention and in-depth learning. These became heavy weight-lifting burdens to get off the ground. Finally, the entrepreneur continually needs to delicately balance time versus projects and clientele as if they too were standing on a balance beam.
Goal and mind setting
Success down the road begins with the mindset of today. The most basic question is, “Do you believe your business will ultimately thrive?” Unless your answer is 100% “Yes!” there will be little chance for success. Business requires Olympian thinking.
To win your medals of accomplishment, put together an action plan for what you wish to achieve in 12 months and into the far off future. What are your long-term and near-term goals? It takes years of baby steps to see your practice makes perfect achievements come to life.
Are there areas in which you need help? Are you willing to tackle the most difficult areas to master and excel? Can you self-educate or is the troubling area one in which you need your own private coach?
After all the hard work is put into your business, what do you foresee as being your most important outcomes? Ask yourself, “Will it be worth the time, effort and monetary output to make this happen?” Once again your answer needs to be a resounding “Yes!”
Working on your goals
A difficult next step is to not let those days where little progress is felt, get you down, or allow yourself to become distracted. On occasion others may ask you to participate in their activities requiring money or considerable time, both of which may potentially cause you to give up on your own dreams. Maintaining focus on who you are, your motivations and goals is what will sustain you and get you to your most desired next level.
As achievement is almost at hand, think creatively regarding possible new partnerships or collaborative efforts. In the case of Olympians many become sponsors of companies. Do you have an idea for one particular company that may further their goals too? With your newfound knowledge, is there a community you may assist? The idea here is as one rung of achievement is almost at hand, plot out new long-term projects and goals to continue the momentum of further building business. The dedication to your work and your clientele is the winning strategy to boost awareness of your personal brand.
In the end, your business is a never-ending marathon that keeps you on your feet and in your mind. The ultimate question becomes, “Are you willing to take the risk and enjoy the roller coaster ride?” Over time, the journey becomes easier and it almost appears as if it were a Smooth Sale!
Author:
Elinor Stutz, CEO of Smooth Sale, LLC, (800) 704-1499, was honored by Open View Labs with inclusion in their international list of “Top 25 Sales Influencers for 2012.” Elinor authored the International Best-Selling book, “Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results”, Sourcebooks and the best selling career book, “HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews”, Career Press. She provides team sales training, private coaching and highly acclaimed inspirational keynotes for conferences. Elinor is available for consultation.
