One of the things that I love about this site and blog we’ve created, is that it is has been a collaborative effort. From the start, we reached out for guidance in setting up our website, getting feedback on the overall idea, had a friend donate her time to design our logo, and had many others contribute in very meaningful ways. Even now, as we continue to grow the foundation of the business, we reach out for feedback and thoughts in many areas!
When you are starting off, it might seem like a good idea to “protect” what you’re starting. Don’t let anyone else steal your idea, don’t share your thoughts or struggles with anyone else, right? Make sure that everything looks smooth, even if underneath you are having trouble. Don’t ask any questions, because you’re smarter than needing help from someone else! Wrong. One of the wisest things we can do, as a close business partner once said to me, is to realize that we aren’t ever going to be the best at everything. Understand which areas you aren’t amazing at, and form partnerships and relationships with those that are good in those areas. While most of us have at least one or two areas of our lives that we can say “yeah, I do that really well”, nobody is a master at everything.
Sometimes we need a friend to help us up. It’s ok.
As you begin to put the pieces together for your new venture, you’ll soon discover the diversity of talents and areas of business that all work together to build something really great. Maybe you’re amazing at selling, but can’t take a picture of your products to save your life. Ask for some help. Maybe you are great at communicating with clients, but absolutely cannot stand trying to generate a profit and loss statement every month or quarter. Ask for some help. Maybe you can crunch numbers and generate spreadsheets with joy, but have no idea how to design a marketing plan. Ask for some help.
There is no shame in asking someone to assist or guide you. Especially as you first start off, people that care about you will be eager to see you succeed, and you might be surprised at just how generous they are with time and advice to help you. So, pack up your pride, take a mental inventory of what you need help with, and just ask.
Until next time.
BEN