To succeed in the business world, you have to replace excuses with action. Many owners barely have enough money to pay bills and survive; they don’t have much left over for anything else. Many are struggling with not making enough money to take care of their families, and know that they are working harder but making less.
There are a million excuses a business owner could give for not being able to change their current situation. They are sabotaging their success with excuses. I am constantly hearing, “The economy isn’t good right now.” “I can’t compete with the big guys in my field.” “The banks won’t lend me money.” “I don’t have any money to spend on marketing.”
Excuses are caused by our fears. They are created by our minds as a way to avoid and ignore our innermost doubts. Excuses lead to inaction and zero results.
If you are unhappy with your current situation, you must change it. First, think about the worst case scenario you envision for your business. Next, ask yourself if you are able to live with this scenario. If not, how can you prevent this scenario from happening? Don’t use “I should have done x, y, or z” or “One day I will do this” as an answer. Now is the time to create a plan to strengthen your business.
Make a list of all your excuses, doubts, and fears. Go down the list and figure out how you can eliminate or mitigate each one. Then create a plan to achieve your business goals and include monthly action to achieve them. Once you put your plan in action every month you will prevent new excuses from forming in your mind.
The most important thing is to understand that now is the time to act and make a plan for the future. There has never been a better time to start or grow your business.
Right now prices are low and suppliers are willing to strike deals. Suppliers are hurting too, and are likely to work with you on material costs in order to make a sale. Take advantage of this opportunity.
Technology has made it easier for the small business owner to compete. You are now able to take your business online, use social media, webinars, e-books, digital magazines…the options are endless.
With more businesses shutting their doors each day, there is less competition in the market. This will make your profits increase dramatically as the economy rebounds.
High unemployment has made a wealth of talent available at reasonable rates. Many people are much more willing to work for smart small business owners now. In the past they wanted the perceived security of working for larger, more established companies. Events over the last decade have shown many employees that this security was an illusion.
Remember, excuses are obstacles to your success. If you allow them a place in your business, you are sabotaging your chance for future profits. Replace your excuses with a monthly plan of action. Follow the plan, achieve your goals, watch your business flourish, and add to your pocketbook.