Starting a business can be exciting, a life changing event. What people don't talk about is that you're embarking on a ride. Some people have called it the roller coaster ride because of its ups and downs. I would argue that entrepreneurship is a combination of rides that you can find at the amusement park. Like a roller coaster, merry-go-round, zipper and, the scrambler all rolled into one crazy ride.
Five years in, I've gained a few insights that I'd like to share with you.
Prioritizing and Time Management
As an entrepreneur, there are so many things that compete for your attention in the run of a day. Learning how to set priorities and manage your time effectively are THE most important aspects to master. You must include all aspects of life here including friends, family, and hobbies.
Surround yourself with like-minded people
Create a network of personal and professional friends that care about your success and growth. Give your precious energy to people that will give it ten folds and support you in your failures and successes. Maybe it's time to take a look at your relationships and do a Friendventory. Dan Martell, a great friend of mine, wrote an excellent blog post on friendships. http://www.danmartell.com/friendventory/
Read and educate yourself
Many have done what you are trying to do, why not learn from them, from their mistakes and successes. For me, it isn't about following a doctrine; it's about building an inventory of knowledge that becomes a source of influence for the way you run your business and your days.
Get a mentor/business advisor
Find someone that has succeeded and ask for advice or help. You'll be surprised how easily approachable people are when you ask for guidance. Learn from others that have already done it. Sometimes the best advisors are from a different industry than your own.
Invest in yourself
Spend time on numero uno. As a business owner, it's easy to lose sight of your personal needs. Find a hobby that takes you out of your daily schedule and do it often. Take vacations, go hiking, spend time meditating, ride your bike or go for long walks. Doing good for yourself will give you the energy you need to grow your business.
Help others, volunteer
Don't underestimate the value of helping others. Volunteering, not only, has the benefit of creating value in the lives of people in your community, but it also helps you feel great. There are numerous opportunities to enlist in your community.
Feel free to reach out. I'll be glad to spend time with you to help you find out what your list could look like.