In the face of global events, economic uncertainties, and personal challenges, it can be difficult to maintain the entrepreneurial spirit characterized by hope, opportunities, and possibilities. However, these elements still exist, and there are strategies to keep your entrepreneurial drive alive during these tough times.
Now is an ideal time to introspect and evaluate what you are contributing to the world. Does your business align with your principles and values? Are you operating within the paradigms of the 'new economy' or clinging to the old? Are you forging your own path or following others? Rekindle your passion and adjust your business accordingly.
Collaboration involves partnering with others. Who else is engaged in work that aligns or complements yours? Do they have a solid reputation? How could collaboration benefit all parties involved? Answer these fundamental questions and then reach out to potential collaborators to discuss possibilities.
You are not operating in isolation. Your customers, suppliers, and employees are experiencing this reality too. Reconnect with them. Now is the time for human connection. Be intentional in your interactions, providing as much stability as possible.
You might be surprised at the diversity and range of businesses in your local area. Join your local Chamber of Commerce or a networking group and familiarize yourself with your business community. You might find the perfect collaboration partner.
When you take full responsibility for your survival, you stop making excuses and start finding solutions. You tap into your entrepreneurial spirit to be innovative, to discover new and improved ways of doing business. Your desire for success must outweigh any obstacles. Embrace your determination and move forward with the courage of a warrior.
A thorough clean-up can provide clarity. Clean up everything - your computer files, accounting, calendar, physical space, and more. Discard anything you haven't used in three months. A clean environment can lead to a clear mind.
You have a choice in how you respond to daily events. Choose your vision, success, hope, and to see opportunities and explore possibilities. Choose to feel the courage and conviction of your entrepreneurial spirit every moment of every day.
When feeling threatened or pressured, our thinking becomes clouded and our actions less rational. Consider consolidating debts, reducing inventory orders, selling unnecessary assets, or applying for a credit line when you don't need it. These actions can help ease the anxiety that often exists between the bottom-line and cash flow projections.
While it's important to stay informed about media reports, trends, and expert opinions, always think for yourself. Trust your gut instinct about what works for your business. You are your own best compass, and your entrepreneurial spirit is a willing guide.
There are numerous books that can nourish your entrepreneurial spirit, reminding you of hope, opportunities, and possibilities. Read these books first thing in the morning and last thing at night to recharge your brain when it is most receptive to this kind of information. Some recommended reads include The Lean Startup by Eric Ries and Zero to One by Peter Thiel.
