Ok – it’s not the start of the new year for, I would say, all of you. But for me, it’s been a slow start due to a move to the country. If you are interested in reading about the shenanigans this move had entailed, check out my blog at Blundstones and Bling.
There are so many things I have learned about the world and myself during this time some of which I hope will be of value to you and your small business journey.
1) You are not alone. In some way, in some form, although never identical, someone has experienced what you have.
We can all feel alone and isolated thinking that our burden is ours alone and no one should or could care. Our natural reaction during tough times is to bunker down, pull back and isolate ourselves. This is the time to open up and find the people who can help you.
By understanding our own strengths and weaknesses we can call on those who can support us.
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their work: if one falls down, his friend can help him up.
But pity the one who falls down and has no one.” – King Solomon
2) Have a plan
While purpose and passion are essential for you to achieve your best possible life, your dreams will remain a fantasy unless you have a plan. What do you need to do to get where you want to be? Write it down, make it happen. Do you want to start a business? Make it happen. I have an e-book and course that could help you kick-start your ideas – at your own pace, in your own time.
“A dream without a plan is just a wish”
3) Daydream but don’t procrastinate
We all find it hard to return ‘to work’ after holidays. And while holidays can give great perspective and enable us to have more Ah Hah moments, we must bunker down and do the work. Today I had a list and I am working through it – blog – tick!
“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” – Aristotle
4) Learn about Country Time
I suffer from hurry sickness. When I want something done I want it done now. Things have to move a little slower in the country. Infrastructure, distance, heat all play into time. You learn patience and rely on humour to manage that which you cannot control. Sometimes we think we should be able to control everything. We can’t. Life happens. I have realised that anything worth doing is worth doing slowly.
“You win more bees with honey”
5) Face the fears
We have had so many critter encounters since being in the country, from spiders to snakes and mice. What would have sent shock waves through my system only weeks ago are now shrugged off as part of life. It has made me realise the saying ‘you just get used to it’ is valid. Once you’ve confronted your fears once it gets easier. What have you been putting off due to fear?
FEAR – False Evidence Appearing Real
6) Be your authentic self
Successful people know themselves well and do not do anything that requires them to be someone they are not. Ask yourself why you are doing what you are doing. Does it suit you? Is it sustainable? Or are you treading water waiting for something better to come along? Find what makes your heart sing and stop trying to please others.
“Be yourself, everyone else is already taken”
What are you taking on this year that will help you get towards your life and business goals?
