Entrepreneurs Tell Us What’s The Worst That Can Happen
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1. Business Is Just A Tidal Wave
The Worst That Can Happen: In 20 years, I have found the ebb & flow of business offers a sea of opportunity. Initially, I worried about being a nonstop rainmaker. Now, I use these “work valleys” to center my energy and capitalize on time to shore up systems, engage strategic alliances and assess the value brought to clients. The down time gives you focus to be open to seize opportunities as they present themselves. Business is just a tidal wave – up, down, in, out – all good! Never fear, the clients will come. Thanks To: Jane Dvorak of JKD & Company, Inc. |
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2. Will It Last?
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear was that the business would not last for over a year. I was unsure that I had what it took to be the owner of a company! Five years later, I proved myself wrong and I even started a second business. Basically if you are open to learning as your business grows and are persistent, you can make a success of it! Thanks To: Leah Oviedo of Investing In Women |
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3. But What Will I Say?!
The Worst That Can Happen: When I first started my business I was really worried that I wouldn’t be very good at “Selling” my product. I was a very shy child, so talking to people hasn’t been a huge strength of mine! I was worried that I wouldn’t know what to say to people at tradeshows and events. BUT GUESS WHAT…I found out that it’s the easiest thing in the world!!! When you believe in your product and have a real passion for sharing it with others, it becomes almost effortless to “sell” it! Thanks To: Kia Robertson of Today I Ate A Rainbow! |
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4. Choose Fear Or Freedom
The Worst That Can Happen: My worst fear was job loss. Pink slip in hand, I hopped on the social media train to engage with smart folks (like TPE) on popular internet sites. I focused on scouring the landscape to learn about startups and where my skills applied. When I captured a transcript on a fast moving twitter chat + offered it to the host, I unexpectedly was promoted to assistant to the chat! I’m looking forward, not back. Doing the hustle in my own business is infinitely more rewarding than chasing a paycheck. Thanks To: Sonia Schenker of Your Job My Office Virtual Assist |
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5. Your Fear Can Be A Positive
The Worst That Can Happen: I feared that the nonprofits I hoped to support wouldn’t be interested in participating w/JackTheDonkey.com. To get on their radar & show that I was serious, pre-launch, I started a FB group where I listed 20 charities “I gave a poop about” & asked members of FB’s community to help divide $1,001 among them by voting for those they “gave a poop about.” I had a favorable 1st impression w/ each when I called to make/explain the donations. We launched w/ 10 & are now over 20 nonprofits from NA. Thanks To: David Katz of JackTheDonkey.com |
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6. Nobody Likes My Websites
The Worst That Can Happen: My worst fear was nobody liking my website styles ~ people have different tastes. What actually happened was i attract people that like what I am doing since I like what I am doing. If someone does not like my design style I simply don’t hear from them and really do not have the time to worry about it. There is plenty of business to go around! Thanks To: Dotty Scott of Premium Websites |
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7. What I Should Have Feared
The Worst That Can Happen: While I wasn’t afraid of anything in particular, I SHOULD have feared the impact that starting a business would have on my personal relationships because of all the time involved. I’m guessing this would be similar for other entrepreneurs. Thanks To: Steve Silberberg of Fatpacking |
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8. Don’t Worry So Much
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear in starting my business was how was I going to find good people, for little to no money? I discovered that once I started, great people have shown up at the right time to help me through the next stage, so funding them was not an all or nothing thing. My start up funds lasted long enough to get me through the 1st step, and by then I had more money/resources to move to the next level. So far it has kept working out, so don’t worry so much! Thanks To: Denise LaBuda of Money Wizdom |
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9. Lessons From The Trenches
The Worst That Can Happen: I HAD a cookie company. I was working full-time at the time and could only market on a limited basis. My biggest fear was a financial loss and that was actually the outcome. Huh, you might say, that’s not very encouraging. But, I share it because I’m still here, a living, breathing human being, I’m still trying, and the education I learned from it was worth thousands. Yes, I still have an annoying $12,000 of debt from that business because I didn’t stop the bleeding soon enough. Thanks To: Michelle Hill of Winning Proof |
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10. Losing Yourself
The Worst That Can Happen: You will probably face a lot of joys and challenges as you grow your endeavor. Enjoy it all. What seems challenging, if you let it, will make you a better person. The worst thing that can happen is to lose your integrity. To lose your relationship with yourself. To lose your inner Truth. To have some type of disconnect that doesn’t truly represent who you are. Don’t Lose Yourself. It’s the greatest contribution you can make to our society. Otherwise, everything else you give will be a facade. Thanks To: Pamela Hawley of UniversalGiving |
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11. Not Looking For Love?
The Worst That Can Happen: They always said when I wasn’t looking for love, I’d find it. The saying should be, “When you’re not looking for customers, you’ll find them.” At least, that was my situation. At first, I feared I wouldn’t be able to survive because I wouldn’t be able to find clients. Miraculously, they came to me via word of mouth. (University students told their bosses in Fortune 100 companies and suddenly, I had more work than I could handle.) I’m still looking for love, by the way, but clients? Thanks To: Marlene Caroselli of Principled Persuasion |
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12. Procrastinate At Your Own Risk
The Worst That Can Happen: One of the best things to secure your financial freedom even in retirement is always having a stream of income. Buying real estate is one way, but look what’s happened there. And today there is no longer any job security. Thus to do nothing out of fear of failure is inviting failure. If you do your research, you will find your niche. In today’s internet savvy world with outsourcing and all, you can take the reins to your financial security in hand. You have nothing to fear, but fear itself. Thanks To: Craig Wolfe of CelebriDucks |
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13. Failure!
The Worst That Can Happen: This has been my own personal demon for the past ten years! I vowed that this would be the year that I would finally put my own goals for business growth and success first. Stop focusing on ‘how’ and make a roadmap to a destination. I’m tired of the peaks and valley of cashflow as a solopreneur. I want my company to achieve steady income from multiple streams. I want my company to stop being a slave to the billable hour and look at creating a full product line. Much success in 2010! Thanks To: Joann Sondy of Creative Aces Corp. |
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14. Fear Is Real! Do It Anyway!
The Worst That Can Happen: The great Walt Disney said it the best: I was fairly young(25) when I started my business 15 years ago. At that age I had nothing to lose, so I really didn’t have any fear. I figured if I failed I would just get another job. Think about it, the worst that could happen is you could end up where you are now; In debt and with a job! Because I took action and started my business I’m now a Global Entrepreneur! Thanks To: Evan Money of Evan Money Inc. |
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15. Not Afraid Enough
The Worst That Can Happen: My little story starts with me working for corporate America for 9years. I then quit to be a stay at home mom (which I was happily from2002 – 2006) when “it” happened. I didn’t mean to throw myself headfirst back into business, but when you have a great idea (or what you hope is a great idea) it becomes more of a compulsion than anything else. Why was this moment different for me then a million other ideas that so many smart and talented 9-5ers have every day? Thanks To: Leslie Haywood of Grill Charms by Charmed Life |
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16. No One Will Buy From Me!
The Worst That Can Happen: When I started MotherTongues, I was wondering who in the world will buy a t-shirt from me – I obviously didn’t quite know who my target market will be! Well, 5 years later, lots of people are buying! Make sure you pick a niche target market (if you are selling a product), and that your product is unique, and it will sell! Thanks To: Michelle Hamman of MotherTongues |
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17. Face Your Fears!
The Worst That Can Happen: In my early business stages, I got on the phone every day, very fearful. And in between sales calls, I would cry. Little by little, I learned and found success. Creating a business is about facing yourself and growing BEYOND the fears. Become strong, accept your lack of knowledge and learn as you go. Face your fears. Hold to a higher purpose for your work–that will get you going. Hold fast to your vision and that will KEEP you going! Don’t have regrets by not trying. Do it–take a calculated risk. Thanks To: Andrea Gold of Gold Stars Speakers Bureau |
18. Fears Can Come True
The Worst That Can Happen: I started a company and trusted a long time friend to do it with me. He promised to get all the legal paperwork done so I could to the technical stuff. Lets just say that he turned out to be a crook and set up a phony bank account into which he siphoned money. He also gave away stock to his friends to try and squeeze me out. It cost me over $100,000 to undo what he did. Bottom line – get your papers done right – the first time – by a good attorney. Don’t do legal on the cheap. Thanks To: David Pensak of George Washington University |
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19. The Inventor’s Puzzle
The Worst That Can Happen: I can’t count the number of times that I have talked with someone about a great new idea that is (in their mind) the best thing since sliced bread, only to find out after a little careful market analysis that, unlike sliced bread, which we all eat on a daily basis, this new idea has about as much market potential as diced bread, which we only eat on Thanksgiving, and only then if you happen to like stuffing! Thanks To: Mark Lake of EagleRock Consulting, Inc. |
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20. The Learning Is In The Doing!
The Worst That Can Happen: I stalled for years because I didn’t think I knew how to start a business. I pondered doing an MBA so that I had credentials. Here’s the thing. You learn a step at a time, a day at a time and a mistake at a time. That’s the best education out there. All the learning you need is in the doing. So it doesn’t work… who cares? Did you learn anything? That’s what matters. Now instead of hanging a degree on the wall, I hang my business registration! Thanks To: Shelagh Cummins of practicalmum.com |
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21. You’ll Never Be Able To
The Worst That Can Happen: When I talked to family members and friends about my idea for starting a business, every one of them told me my idea of a productivity and organization coaching firm would never work. They said I would not even make it a year. My biggest fear was that they were right! That was back in January 2002. We have many happy clients and continue to grow every year. Believe in yourself & get help where you are weak & you’ll succeed. To your success! Thanks To: Stephanie Calahan of Calahan Solutions, Inc. |
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22. Would People
The Worst That Can Happen: When I launched my business, my biggest fear was that people wouldn’t “get” the concept or understand how we could help bridge the gap that often occurs between patients and friends. I feared that they wouldn’t use us to deliver creative gifts or get well gifts. I have learned that when you are genuine and passionate about helping others, people respond in an amazing way! Not only do our customers “Get It”, they are telling all their friends about us! Thank goodness I didn’t let fear stop me. Thanks To: Dawn Veselka of Out of the Blue Delivered |
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23. Look At The Big Picture
The Worst That Can Happen: My worst fear was that my business would fail, I would lose all my money, house and pyhsical posessions of value, and that I would have to start over from square one. This has not happened to me, but I think about it daily. I It is a good thing to keep in mind, but know that no matter what happens, you can and will get back up and start over. Remember, in terms of money and “things”, you come to this earth with nothing and will leave the same way. Thanks To: Matt Shoup of Shoup Consulting |
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24. Worst Better Than Status Quo
The Worst That Can Happen: We currently own three companies (a C-corp, an LLC, and a sole proprietorship. We’ve bootstrapped them all in somewhat controlled environments (salaried jobs intact, etc.), so there wasn’t some great pending disaster. Still, when I first proposed my latest venture — an inexpensive beginning blogger service — to some other bloggers, it met with significant resistance from a handful of people. When I got my first two clients before I even launched, however, I knew I was onto something. Thanks To: Alison Moore Smith of Start Blogging in 1 Week |
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25. It’s Going To Cost Me What?
The Worst That Can Happen: I had a strict budget for product development and I feared I could be too unrealistic. I started looking in China, but then I had to factor in shipping and duty (and I wasn’t inventing a rocket). I then searched nationally, but again, shipping increased my costs tremendously. Eventually, through networking, I was able to find local suppliers. This allowed me to get higher quality pieces while remaining within my budget. But I had to do my diligence and spend time researching my options. Thanks To: Melissa Rose of Biz in a Boxx |
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26. Don’t Be Afraid
The Worst That Can Happen: When I started my business, I dove in head first.No business plan, and money for the first issue came from my savings bank.I had no idea what I was doing, but I was energetic, believed in my idea and never considered it wouldn’t succeed. Seventeen years later,I am just as passionate. Advice?Don’t be afraid to go for your dream. But don’t go into it half-way.Give it your all.Put the idea of failing out of your mind.If you believe you will be successful and persevere,you will succeed. Enough said. Thanks To: Erica Shames of Susquehanna Life Magazines |
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27. Remember To Wear Black
The Worst That Can Happen: I had a dramatic career change from Corporate Banking to Interior Designer. My biggest fear was being able to hide my fear & present myself with the confidence as if I’d been a designer for years. I’d designed friend’s homes for years; so I took that, felt the fear, wore black suites, so they wouldn’t see me sweet and took the risk. Now after 17 successful years, I live by the question, “What’s the Worst Thing That Can Happen?” Thanks To: Gail Mayhugh of GMJ Interiors |
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28. Time & Money Take A Back Seat
The Worst That Can Happen: If only I had the time, if only I had the money, words NOT to live by if you want to succeed as an entrepreneur. In all honesty those were, and still are negative thoughts I yell; quiet in my mind. Unexpected opportunities have transformed many of my fears into dreams that I never thought were reachable. Doors keep opening, as I watch my idea turn into a profitable business. “Self what is the worst thing that can Thanks To: Lori Reader of Loveable Look-a-Like Doll |
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29. Surf’s Up
The Worst That Can Happen: Surfers wipe out all the time. The ones who ride the big waves have the biggest crashes. Everything you do in life involves risk. If you want to make things happen in life, you will break some things. It’s ok. Wipe out. Enjoy the ride while it lasts. Get back up on your board and ride the wave again. The great thing is that opportunity is always going to be present. If you get thrown once, get up again. The victor is the one who keeps getting up. Never fail by never quitting. Thanks To: Scott Lovingood of The Wealth Squad Inc |
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30. You’ll Lose Your Job!
The Worst That Can Happen: Face it. There is no stability anyone these days. So what are your worried about: that your boss (you)will be a jerk; that you are not good enough; that it is not a secure job… I worried about these things and more and I finally stopped putting barriers in my own way and got very clear on what could work and how. I imagined winning and somehow pieces fell into place. Get clear on where you want to be and what you want to be doing and take the first step. You might just amaze yourself! Thanks To: Holly G. Green of The Human Factor, Inc. |
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31. Littletoad Takes The Leap
The Worst That Can Happen: After getting numerous rejections my friends started to ask why don’t you just start your own business? The very thought of it scared me to death it seemed so overwhelming that I would just brush it off as an impossibility. My biggest fear was- what if this doesn’t work? It’s what I have always wanted to do and if I can’t make it work where does that leave me? Today I’m happy to say my business is slowly growing and gaining momentum it’s not at the point where I can quit my day job. Thanks To: Michelle Littler of littletoad |
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32. My Bank Account Is Negative???
The Worst That Can Happen: I think the biggest fear is not making money or going bankrupt, but if your bank account has ever been at zero then you already have what it takes to overcome that fear. Sure you take risk, and not all work out or turn into millions. I’ll be the first to admit that through my years as an entrepreneur I have seen thousands turn to red $0. a few times. But my most creative ideas have come from those very moments and it puts pressure on you to get serious and creative Job security no longer exist. Thanks To: Felecia Hatcher of Feverish Ice Cream Trucks |
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33. Swimming Against The Tide
The Worst That Can Happen: Biggest Fear: Thanks To: Matthew Harden of TommyWants |
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34. Public Humiliation
The Worst That Can Happen: For the past four years, I have lived a life that most people only dream about. Building a multi-million dollar empire has allowed us to build homes for families in third world countries. Inspiring others to create wealth, living a life of real freedom, and providing multiple character building opportunities for our children are all things that I never would have accomplished had I let my fear control me. Be afraid of what you may never accomplish if you allow your fear to control your destiny. Thanks To: Savannah Ross of Rich Mom |
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35. Tame Fear With A Team!
The Worst That Can Happen: The biggest fear in starting a new business is believing you have to go it alone. You have to deal with friends and family that are sometimes nay-sayers (particularly in the start-up stage) as well as deal with rejection from sales calls. There’s a lot of negativity to overcome and it’s very hard to do that when you are a solo act. Create an advisory board or develop a team of resources to give you advice and help you navigate all areas of business from sales, marketing, accounting, etc. Thanks To: Sandie Glass of Sandstorm inc. |
36. Can I Or Can’t I
The Worst That Can Happen: All actions have reactions. No matter what your business decision is most reactions to it are predictable. You should always list the possible reactions to any decision, so that you are prepared. The most important question of all is “What Is The Worst Thing That Could Happen?” If you can’t live with the answer, to that question, then that option can’t be your solution. You must always find a solution to any problem that allows you to live with the “Worst Possible Outcome.” Thanks To: Jim Plouffe of BusinessConsultingThatWorks.com |
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37. Fear Does Not Kill!
The Worst That Can Happen: Two fears that come to mind first are financial disaster and personal failure. There are so many others but none of them are powerful enough to stop anyone who has a true desire and passion to succeed. If you do not try to start your business you are instilling doubt in yourself which can carry over in everyday work. I have found that when down to the last 2 sheets, if you believe in your business you’ll find so will others and their support will get you through the hardest times. Thanks To: Gregg Mulgrew of Card-Logic |
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38. I Am Afraid Of The Dark
The Worst That Can Happen: Everyone is afraid of something but why would you let that stop you from being successful. I started my first business when I was only three years old. I am now 8. I am rich and famous. I have been featured on TV, radio and international magazines in 16 different countries. If I would have tried to start a business and failed, I would be proud of myself because at least I tried. If you do not try, you should be afraid that everyone will think you are a big chicken. Only losers say “I can’t”. Thanks To: Ryan Ross of Tiny Trump |
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39. Worried About Making Bank?
The Worst That Can Happen: Starting out, I was absolutely terrified I wouldn’t be able to make enough money working for myself. For the first six months, it was hard. Going above and beyond to provide the best service possible soon started earning me referrals. I began offering monthly service packages, allowing me some recurring, predictable income. Outstanding service + renewable products were the winning combination. Thanks To: Dixie Vogel of Good Karma Host |
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40. The B Word
The Worst That Can Happen: The worse thing that could happen is Bankruptcy…the dreaded B word! We believe in our products, so do our customers, our business is rapidly growing…but we’ve spent all of our own money and borrowed plenty. Will we have enough to fund the big sales that are pending? What could be worse than reaching/exceeding your sales goals and not being able to fund the inventory to meet the demand thus losing it all! Oh the stress! It’s a great ride as an entrepreneur…but oh, the sleepless nights! Thanks To: Daniels Beth of Around the Table Games |
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41. Massive Learning
The Worst That Can Happen: When I was doing the planning for my business I asked exactly that: “What’s the worst that can happen?” My biggest fear was I wouldn’t get any customers and wouldn’t make any money. What really happened? I started getting customers and had to quickly learn how to run a business. I could do the consulting work yet I needed to learn: bookkeeping, selling, negotiating, etc… DON’T waste time worrying about failure. Spend all your free time learning and then do it! Thanks To: Kate Nasser of The People-Skills Coach, CAS, Inc. |
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42. Dad, Where Are You?
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear in starting my business was that it would take too much of my time and that my family would suffer. In my previous corporate job, I traveled all the time and my wife and kids hated it. Could I have my own business AND have time with my family OR would I have to work 80 hours a week to make my business succeed? rnWell, three years later I am thrilled to say that it WAS possible. Not only do I have dinner with my family, but I attend cub scouts, ball games and school functions! Thanks To: Courtney Barnette of iPhoneSolarCharger |
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43. Face The Fear & Jump Any Way
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear? What if, after I left my “secure” job, my 1st client disappeared? Well, it happened! My “parachute” collapsed soon after I “took the leap”! But I quickly learned that panic is not good when plunging toward earth! So I got to work deliberately untangling each line & then opened my reserve chute: I continuously followed up with potential clients & offered value until I found one! This was only possible because I was prepared BEFORE I JUMPED. Thanks To: Dino Herbert of For Leap’s Sake |
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44. Vacation Rentals Fears/rewards
The Worst That Can Happen: My first leap was deciding to rent our cabins as vacation rentals. My greatest fear was that my homes would be ruined, and that they wouldn’t make enough money. Well it’s been 7 years and things are great. My next leap involved creating a website to automate my rental business. We have just launched this company, the system is in beta, and we will see how it goes. But I’m confident that this company will do even better than the first. Starting a company is scary but the reward is worth it! Thanks To: Kathryn Christensen of Trekadoo |
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45. Funny How Things Work Out
The Worst That Can Happen: The worst thing that could happen is you totally max out your credit cards, spend your entire savings,have people calling you sayingto leave them alone,threats from people telling you they are calling the authorites for sending them mail and then you find out that what you are doing is Your True Passion and You don’t care what anyone else says… You go for it and it works! Thanks To: Dianne Sikel of DoneForYou.me |
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46. Clients From Beyond The Grave
The Worst That Can Happen: When I founded my business in May of 2000 I knew it would be a challenge to find clients-after all, the people I honor with my services are dead. Thanks To: Loretta Stanaway of Memorial Minders |
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47. Do I Have The Edge To Compete?
The Worst That Can Happen: Most entrepreneurs start their businesses in the face of certain fears. For CVA, an initial fear was related to our goal of doing something innovative and fresh enough to establish and maintain an edge over some very entrenched consultants in the finance space. For entrepreneurs who hope to establish an edge and compete with larger firms, having the resolve to stick with your model and the flexibility to remain competitive will help to establish an edge and win business from competitors. Thanks To: Stephan Nicoleau of Critical Value Advisors |
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48. Fear Is 90% Irrational
The Worst That Can Happen: Fear I would have to say in business is 90% irrational and 10% rational. If you go around getting the two mixed up, you will always be stressed and probably won’t get much sleep. That being said, my biggest fear like most entrepreneurs was one thing, failing. You look at the statistics on new businesses failing and say to yourself, this is impossible. For the first year without getting one single client it sure seemed that way. I did eventually get clients and now I am busier than ever. Thanks To: Marc Anderson of TalktoCanada.com |
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49. Fear Not Want Not
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear was not having enough time to give my new venture the old college try! As the economy sagged so did my freelance work. It slowed enough to give me time for dedication to Greenpurse almost full time. Fear dispelled. Thanks To: Tina Wick of Greenpurse |
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50. It’s Professional Development
The Worst That Can Happen: When I was thinking about becoming an entrepreneur, the job market was hot and so the risk that I couldn’t get a job, if everything went pear shaped, was pretty low. As we all know, the financial crisis came along and changed the rules, we closed down our start-up as the market dried up. But the experience and the mindset that I gained by being an entrepreneur has placed me in a unique position to create my own job in an tough economy and help out other entrepreneurs as part of that job. Thanks To: Gus Murray of Startup Company |
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51. Investing In Yourself Pays Off
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear was that I was throwing my money away and wasting my time. I actually used to joke that it felt like I was just tossing money into a black hole for the first year. Then an amazing thing happened and something started to grow out of that hole! I discovered that the more time and money I put into the business, the more it paid off. I now know that every single thing I put into my business creates more business and I feel good about investing in myself. Thanks To: Candy Keane of Three Muses Inspired Clothing |
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52. False Evidence Appearing Real
The Worst That Can Happen: FEAR of rejection! Little did I know people were not rejecting ME, it was my opportunity. They didn’t recognize it. There was a test performed a few years back. Josuha Bell, WORLD renowned violinist w/his 2 MILLION dollar violin was placed in the subway the night after he preformed to the masses @ $300 a seat to perform as a street musician in order to see if people could recognize opportunity and greatness out of context. Bottom line? We Can’t! You can’t stop @ the first “no” be patient! Thanks To: JoAnn Donahue of Donahue Development |
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53. Keep Moving Forward…
The Worst That Can Happen: OK, so I stole the title from “The Robinsons” movie my kids like, but it fits! My biggest fear was failure. What if it doesn’t work? What will people think? Will I lose $$? We must all have failure in order to succeed, so my advice is to continually keep moving forward. Don’t dwell on the past. Work on your attitude and belief in yourself, and the success will follow (a bunch of hard work is also necessary!!!). Thanks To: Jocelyn Wiebe of AmeriPlan |
54. People Will Laugh At Me
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear was everybody will laugh at me and will consider me as a loser if I can’t succeed in my venture. But only after getting failed in my initial ventures I realized that others don’t have any time to laugh at other and I am not alone who failed, there are lot of other entrepreneurs like me who keep on trying to get success. Thanks To: Gagandeep Singh of Conversion Rate Optimization |
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55. Embrace Your Fear
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear is not having enough clients on a regular basis. I did not give my self a way out, there is no plan “B.” I took steps that would guarantee that I would always have a steady flow of clients. It all starts with the belief that I can and I studied those who were successful at what I wanted to accomplish. I connected passionately to my WHY & took specific steps to give my clients tremendous value. My client list is growing.Occasionally, fear shows up but I keep my focus on my goals. Thanks To: Adalia John of Circle of Enlightenment |
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56. Start-up Capital And Growth
The Worst That Can Happen: Although I had been working as a freelancer in my field for several years, I had two fears about starting my company. How would I get the start-up capital, and how would I be able to grow my business? I visited the local SBA office for advice and even spoke with family members who were business owners. Then I wrote two plans: A business plan and a personal plan– Each allowed me to view my road map for success. Upon completion, I borrowed money from my savings account and started my company. Thanks To: Bonyetta Brison Kitts of The Brison Group, Inc. |
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57. Screw Competition, Just Do It!
The Worst That Can Happen: Don’t let the fear of entering a competitive market slow you down. I was apprehensive about a starting my basketball camp programs in a heavily saturated market in South Florida. However, I studied my competitors and found a niche that aligned my companies mission. I exploited that niche and used technology and social media spread our marketing message. Thanks To: James Taylor of Taylored Athletes, Inc. |
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58. Failure: The Unspoken Fear
The Worst That Can Happen: When I started my first business, my biggest fear was fear of failure. I have learned over the years that there is no such thing as failure, only lessons learned. I have also learned that you can’t be a failure if you try: you only fail when you do nothing. Thanks To: Suzanne Shaffer of Parents Countdown to College Coach |
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59. Rethink The Cost Model
The Worst That Can Happen: We pondered the cost model – sell affordable books; build complex software architecture. We lowered the start-up costs for building the web software by offshoring development – the greatly lengthened time-to-market and occasional communication roadblocks were tradeoffs we were willing to accept. As for variable costs (outside of basic website maintenance), the books are printed, bound and shipped from an independent fulfillment center. Costs are not incurred unless a book is sold – neat! Thanks To: Ila Mehta of Little Write Brain, Inc. |
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60. Nothing To Fear But….users!
The Worst That Can Happen: After spending the last 10 years designing and building websites, when starting my own company, I wasn’t the least bit worried about building the site. I anticipated that the hardest part would be finding businesses to use the site to publish their availability. While selling hasn’t been easy and it’s still a work in progress. Surprisingly, the part that has been the biggest challenge is building the brand and getting end users to book their appointments on the site. Who knew? Thanks To: Sarah Chapman of Smedule |
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61. Widow Is Flush With Success
The Worst That Can Happen: Tammie was toilet training 2 toddlers & found there was no portable potty training system on the market so she invented one. Her son started calling them PottieStickers. In the middle of potty training her 2 toddlers she lost their 3rd child and her husband was diagnosed with cancer. A few weeks later he lost his battle with cancer having no life insurance so she started marketing PottieStickers to support her children and to help other mothers. A percentage of all sales go to cancer research. Thanks To: Tammie Aaron-Barrada of Aaron & Associates |
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62. Just Do It
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear starting the company was if it would actually catch or help people or was it going to be a flop? I think we all wonder that with everything we do, but we have to know that when you take risks anything can happen. But if you don’t take risks you will never know what COULD happen. Needless to say we took our idea and ran with it and it has been one of the best things we could have done! We had no idea the feedback would be so amazing and help so many people! So JUST DO IT! Thanks To: Ashley Bodi of BusinessBeware.biz |
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63. Resources Are All Out There!
The Worst That Can Happen: When I began my company I knew little about this industry. Thanks To: Gabrielle Yetter of The Brightside Group, Inc |
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64. Client Pipeline Dries Up
The Worst That Can Happen: Biggest fear for a consultant: Becoming a commodity and finding the client pipeline has slowed to a trickle or dried up. With the economic downturn, my worst fear has been realized and overcome. Rather than obsess or panic, I decided to take some time for myself, regroup/network and then get back in the game. And it’s worked; clients are trickling back (although I would prefer a gush). Critical to this tactic: Knowing how long your reserves can last. Thanks To: Donna Ramer of StrategCations, Inc. |
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65. No More 3 A.m. Sweats!
The Worst That Can Happen: It was late 1999. A few months before, I had quit my corporate job and had started a private nutrition practice out of my tiny apartment in NYC. I got clients right So, I made the commitment to immerse myself in absolutely everything that had to do with getting clients. Thanks To: Fabienne Fredrickson of Client Attraction |
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66. Would I Ever Get A Client?
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear when I started my speaking business was that I’d never get a client. After I got the first, I feared I’d never get the second. After that, I feared I never get the third. Then the fourth and so on. It probably took four years before I realized that I actually had developed a business model which could perpetuate itself. Thanks To: Barry Maher of Barry Maher & Associates |
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67. Family First
The Worst That Can Happen: My tip is in reverse. I had started my business and had a few setbacks. I was looking for a job on the internet when my 8 year old daughter asked, “Daddy, what are you doing”. I replied, “Looking for a job and she said “I hope you aren’t going to get a job like Jamie’s dad as Jamie’s dad goes to work before she gets up and comes home after she falls asleep, I don’t want you to get a job like that.” So I didn’t. I reinvented the company to keep my family my priority. Thanks To: David Goldstein of Teambonding |
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68. Bankrupcy & The Unknown
The Worst That Can Happen: When starting my business, I was afraid of going bankrupt. Also, I entered into a field I had no experience in, so I was afraid of not having the right knowledge to answer questions from customers and to do the work involved. To overcome these, I lived on a shoestring budget for the first two years. However, I didn’t miss anything, I learned to live on just what I need and not the excess that I thought I needed. Also, I hired people with a lot of experience in the field and learned from them. Thanks To: Kinga Kerr of Bead & Pearl, LLC |
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69. Failure Is Not That Bad
The Worst That Can Happen: Starting a business is risky, there is no doubt about that. Yes, you could lose it all. So what? I once had the fear that if I failed at business, it would be the end of the world. NOT TRUE. If my business fails, then I will have to get a job, maybe two, and work to repay loans and bills. That is it. The upside of starting a business is the potential for financial independence. Therefore, the upside is wealth, the downside is starting from scratch, which is not that bad. Be bold and good luck. Thanks To: Mark Hall of Input Ladder |
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70. Network But Don’t Give Up
The Worst That Can Happen: Last year, my husband, Mike lost his full time job & we were forced to make a hobby business a ‘real’ business that could support us both. Mike was determined to make it work so we could produce two salaries in the low six figures & did it mostly through social networking. Our company has a blog. We Tweet and put on Facebook (FB) all of our posts but we also put positive personal tidbits on FB too. We befriended all important contacts. Now they feel they know us personally. Thanks To: Janice Celeste of Celeste Studios Film & Video |
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71. Bigger Risk Greater Return
The Worst That Can Happen: As I was comtemplating starting my very first business; I was young and scared. I was afraid I would go for it and never get a morsel of business in return. A friend said to me, The bigger the risk, the greater the return! Those words of wisdom have been branded on the brain for EVERY business venture I have ever started. If you don’t do it you will never know any difference. I listened and went for it. The outcome was a success, I don’t think I could ever work for anyone else again. Thanks To: CINDY TOLLEN of Sudz N Bubbles, Ltd. |
72. Entrepreneurship Success Story
The Worst That Can Happen: My best tip is to go against the grain- don’t let your family, friends, the economy or the media scare you- create your own career! I was one of the few seniors who had a position lined up upon graduation, but ultimately I knew I needed to create my own career path. The only true measure of success is happiness; don’t let the fear of financial instability scare you into believing you need to be part of the corporate ladder or system. Create your own career & you will find true inner happiness. Thanks To: Kris Ruby of Ruby Media Group |
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73. Failure Equals Opportunity
The Worst That Can Happen: When my husband and I started our first business, we were newbies to the internet and to running our own business. Of course we feared failing and that business sort of did fail in regards to sales, but the website is still growing as is the blog related to that website and we have started to make a bit of money from the blog. We determined to stay out of debt, so our losses were minimal, but the experience gained was invaluable. Live and learn and look at failure as an opportunity. Thanks To: Theresa Gould of RobnT Business Solutions |
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74. What If I’m Not That Special?
The Worst That Can Happen: I left a stable science job to start a mobile web company. Thanks To: Matt Lally of Imaneed |
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75. Playing The Retail Game
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear in starting my own business was attempting to set up retail accounts for my product. Having no background in retail and looking all of 15 years old, it was especially daunting doing door-to-door cold calling on business owners in the Dallas area. As with any endeavor, persistence and trial and error pay off. My sales pitch improved with each cold call and I now have retail accounts locally and worldwide through my website. After I landed my first account, it only got easier. Thanks To: Anthony Adams of The Hangover Cure |
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76. Will They Come?
The Worst That Can Happen: When starting My Office Assistant, I was fearful that no one would come. My biggest fear was not enough clients to sustain my business. Being a newer industry I got a lot of blank stares when I explained what I did and how. However, after fearless networking and following my own plan I not only have clients but am now expanding and adding team members. Now I can service all those companies who are in need of task management. Thanks To: Lee Drozak of My Office Assistant |
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77. No Clients
The Worst That Can Happen: Background: I’m profoundly deaf, which means I make phone calls through a relay service. People mistake it for “sales calls.” So I feared I’d never have enough clients to make the business work. Wrong. I’ve got a full plate and have been full-time since 2005. Thanks To: Meryl K Evans of meryl.net |
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78. Scope Creep
The Worst That Can Happen: The biggest fear I had when starting my business was not having a marketable product that people would be interested in. So I started out with this really broad scope and target audience, thinking that would attract more customers, and my worst fear came true, I didn’t get many looks – too broad. I have since narrowed my scope and the business is great and gaining momentum with various audiences. Lesson Learned – Trust you have a good product or service and be flexible. Thanks To: Dayan Douse of P.R.I.D.E Consulting |
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79. Believe In Yourself!
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear was not being able to pay the mortgage on time, or put food on the table for my family. Boy was I wrong! Being an Entrepreneur has allowed me to have a totally flexible schedule, more income than I have ever earned before, and control of my own destiny. These were things I was lacking for so many years, thank goodness I decided to take that leap of faith. I encourage anyone with a solid business plan and the motivation to succeed to do the same! Thanks To: Michael Ayalon of Petwebdesigner |
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80. Show Me The Money
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear when starting my own business was finding the investment I needed to fund it, followed by the actual closing of that investment. Without adequate funding, The Wumblers would have remained just another good idea. What actually happened is that a friend of mine introduced me to a broker who put me in touch with private investors. One rather lengthy conversation between, and I was off and running. Thanks To: Laura Wellington of The Giddy Gander Company LLC |
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81. The Fear Of Too Few!
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear as I was launching a new business and career, was that I had to find all new people and markets in order to have clients! I did not know where to start! them. What has actually happened is that while I was figuring out how to start to do this, my clients all found me based on what I had done in the past! I have had so many clients come to me based on “knowing me when” that I have had to reinvent my deliver model twice to accommodate them all. Thanks To: Ann Farrell of Quantum Endeavors, Inc. |
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82. My Biggest Fear Was Actually S
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear was actually success. Could I handle it if it really took off, would I crash and burn. Would it turn out to be a huge Thanks To: Marta Mele’cio of BANGLEDOX ECO-FRIENDLY CLOTHING |
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83. A Reluctant Entrepreneur
The Worst That Can Happen: I became a “reluctant entrepreneur” when I was fired. Before I found a job, I ended up with a company. Incorporated in 1994 when hired staff. Main fear then and now: cash. Always worry whether there will be enough cash for payroll, pay rent and other obligations. Felt that way when I had 1-5 staff; feel that way now that payroll is over $1 million. The good news is that I’ve always been able to generate enough cash that I probably shouldn’t worry. Thanks To: Steve Drake of Drake & Company |
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84. Could I Do This On My Own…
The Worst That Can Happen: Upon being laid off from a well known coffee franchise after nearly 10 years of service. I quickly started thinking about my future. I had traveled the world mentoring people in life and business, consulting them on critical decsion making. Could I do this on my own? How and who do I market? After much quizzing of my wife and brother, I went for it. 7 months were focused on properly building what is now successfully Attainment Coaching. After the risk and creation, I am so proud of what is mine. Thanks To: Lou DePasquale of Attainment Coaching |
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85. Nobody Buys
The Worst That Can Happen: I was thinking about starting up a consulting firm. I wasn’t sure what the reaction would be from my previous clients (from an earlier job). I decided to offer consulting only at night and on the weekends so that I could keep my full-time job. I sent out letters to all my old clients. The worst that could happen is they would all say “No.” I would have lost a few dollars in stationery and stamps. Instead, all of them said, “Yes.” I was immediately profitable. Thanks To: Donald Mitchell of The 400 Year Project |
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86. Let It Go Let It Go Let It Go
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear or more like “hangup” was being able to let go of the business. I started it from scratch and felt that only I could do the job right. When I finally started to farm my work out I was right, people did not do the job the way I did! They didn’t care as much and certainly didn’t treat what they were doing the way I did. I literally had to look the other way and let them make many mistakes. After a time they ended up doing a better job than I did. Let them make mistakes. Thanks To: Karen Van Cleef of Vitality Products, Inc. |
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87. What If It Dosen’t Work?
The Worst That Can Happen: Paralyzed by the fear in the words “What if”. I worried about what if I could not make money, what if I failed, what if…it went on & on. In some cases my “what if” fear allowed someone else to create my dream. Like Nike says “Just Do It!” If it is the wrong direction re-invent & move forward, there are no limits to what you can do, no boss telling you no so stop leaning on the “What if” crutch & launch forward. Thanks To: Robin Hardy of Robin Hardy Consultant |
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88. No One Is Buying My Product
The Worst That Can Happen: In my first business, I created a roll & go organizer for toiletries. I spent tons of money on development, patent, branding and making it green. As I feared, barely anyone bought it. Why? Because what I had was a hobby: designing and sewing. I had spent all my resources getting ready to market but no plan on getting it TO the market. My fear was a direct result of my unpreparedness. Thanks To: Cristin Frank of Cristin Frank Media |
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89. The Unknown….
The Worst That Can Happen: The thought of starting a business made the hairs on my arm stand up…it was the UNKNOWN! The fear of doing something completely different from teaching was scary.After 4 years of running a successful home business I realize that I have more passion, enjoy amazing relationships and have had more fun then I ever thought possible. The best part is that by facing my fear I have created a lifestyle for our family that we can now enjoy and help others to create as well! Thanks To: Cheryl Hill of Mia Bella “Green” Products |
90. Fear Scares Me To Move!
The Worst That Can Happen: What kept me from starting my coaching business was FEAR of success, of failure, and of thinking that I couldn’t solve the problems of my business and clients when they arose. I was able to move forward after writing my vision (what success looked like), looking back at my life history book and realizing that I had solved all issues that had come up before and had lessons learned to show for it and that it’s now all about obstacle and risk management. I made fear = action and not stagnation. Thanks To: John Haynes of Regeneration! Life & Biz Coaching |
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91. Let Go Of The Branch And Fall
The Worst That Can Happen: Suppose I told you that you were only 3 feet off the ground? Would you let go? Of course, you would. The problem is that most people hold onto their current problems when they should leave their corporate job, get out of their marriage or dump a bad investment. I let go more than 25 years ago and have millions as a stock trader, author, entrepreneur, indie film maker, theater producer and investor. So, what’s stopping you? It’s your turn. Let go! What’s the worst thing that could happen? Thanks To: Jeffrey Taylor of Jeffrey Taylor Group |
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92. Hurdle Failure
The Worst That Can Happen: The worst thing that could happen is failure and loss of money. Money can be re-earned. Be sure to keep your good reputation, and then failure will be just a hurdle to jump over. Then keep running! Thanks To: Krista Dunk of Koinonia Business Women (KBWomen) |
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93. What If My Business Blows!
The Worst That Can Happen: After ten long years, my tutoring, college counseling, and test prep business has weathered the storm and is stronger than ever! The key is to not give up, be patient, and try to improve your business every day. When I’m not meeting with students, I’m visiting college campuses, or talking to former clients. Your referral base will build eventually, but be patient. You might get rich overnight but you probably won’t. Be strong, be pro-active, stay positive, and you will succeed eventually. Thanks To: Alexis Avila of Prepped & Polished |
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94. You’ll Never Make A Living…
The Worst That Can Happen: When I went was in design school I had a teacher tell me I’d “NEVER make a living doing what I envisioned”. Those were the words I heard during the start-up phase & whenever I hit a rough patch & I started to second guess myself & wonder if he was right & I was “crazy”. 6 yrs later (2 books, clients nationwide and a radio show) I now use his words as motivation for myself & as an example to my clients. Never let others define you or your dreams or passions! Only YOU can define that! Thanks To: DeAnna Radaj of Bante Design LLC |
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95. Trust What You Know
The Worst That Can Happen: Being in the life balance coaching business, the service I knew I would be selling was ME! My initial fears were that I wasn’t going to be able to help people live more balanced, less stressful lives. I got stuck in questions like….What if I don’t have the answers? What if they feel like they have wasted their money and time? What if they don’t like me? Turns out I was wrong on all counts. Thanks To: Kirsten Mahoney of Insight Out Life Coaching |
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96. Time Of Your Life Kid.
The Worst That Can Happen: I started a business, my third or fourth, Thanks To: Peter Zawistowski of Moody Like Me |
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97. Fear Makes You Fearless!
The Worst That Can Happen: When I first started business, I was deathly afraid of failing. I worried that if I failed people would mock me and call me foolish for even trying. But this fear has become an asset. When things get tough, I look at the situation and plan how I am going to solve my problem. What started as a fear has created resilience and creativity within me. I no longer fear failure because I know I can always find a solution to any problem. Thanks To: Darline Turner-Lee of Mamas on Bedrest & Beyond |
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98. Meet Chicken Little.
The Worst That Can Happen: I was afraid of everything when I started out, but I was afraid mostly of looking foolish. Fortunately, my husband’s department was cut at work, and our sole source of income disappeared — so I was forced to get over myself quickly. I realized that I was just going to have to look foolish if I wanted to help feed my family. So, I jumped with both feet and embraced my imperfections. Now, I teach my coaching clients the mantra “You don’t have to be perfect to be profitable!” Thanks To: Nicole Dean of Busy Marketer’s Coach |
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99. That’s The Other Guy’s Probl
The Worst That Can Happen: As Louis Winthorpe said in Trading Places, “Fear. That’s the other guy problem.” In 19 years, I have started 5 businesses. While 2 have failed, 3 have been successful. I can honestly say that I have not had any substantial fear to speak of during any start up. Sure, I wanted to succeed and make rather than lose money, but this was more rooted in practical desire than fear. I think in order to succeed, you need to set fear aside. Maybe that’s part of why my very small business grew 41% last year. Thanks To: Ellen Thompson of 4 Walls Apartments |
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100. Set Realistic Expectations
The Worst That Can Happen: Expectations were set so high in the beginning, we almost took ourselves out of the game. We moved forward and launched on January 3, 2009. It’s not about becoming a Fortune 500 within the first year; it’s about setting realistic goals, achieving them and then setting new goals, constantly striving to do more. These constant accomplishments will inspire and encourage you in the coming years. Be innovative, create your own path and build upon your successes. Thanks To: Katie Webb of Intertwined |
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101. Not Finding Enough Clients
The Worst That Can Happen: Before launching a business, it’s important to know your industry inside and out and to do research to determine EXACTLY the target audience that needs, wants, & can afford my services. I did a lot of local (proactive) networking and landed teaching and presentation opportunities that gave me tremendous exposure. Today, I spend time, energy, imagination and little or no marketing $$ to attract clients. They call me! It’s a process that takes time, but it does work! Thanks To: Vicki Lynne M of Russmor Marketing Group |
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102. Turn Your Are Into A Star
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear is that I would fall on my face. The outcome I realized is that every time I fell there was someone there to pick me up. Realize who you ARE and what you ARE trying to do in life and make the most of it. Learn from others and apply their goodness into your greatness. As you become an expert in your field the world will be ready to recognize you as the star that you ARE. Thanks To: Derrick Hayes of WOE Enterprises |
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103. Failure Is Not Trying At All
The Worst That Can Happen: The simplest way to put it is like this: Failure is to simply not try. If you try and it does not work, then you at least learned something that will help you succeed at your next idea. Not trying is a failure in and of itself. So in order to start on the right foot, do some research, talk to people, look up everything you can on the Internet and don’t expect to succeed overnight. It will take time to figure it out. Babe Ruth had more strike outs than home runs. Now get out there AND TRY! Thanks To: Edwin Soler of Librera Berea |
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104. Is Fear Stopping Your Success
The Worst That Can Happen: I used to let fear stop me from developing business ideas. I did not want to look stupid in front of my working class friends for trying to start a business that failed so I never tried. Once I realized failure is part of life experiences as a human I embraced the next unique concept that came to me. Thanks To: John R Hobbs of The Secrets of Successful Inventors |
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105. Total Economic Despair…
The Worst That Can Happen: My fear was that starting a business would allow me to fall deeply into debt and ruin my and my family’s finances and overall lifestyle. The reality, of course, is that I have complete control over my business finances and the risks that we take and, therefore, have been able to greatly reduce exposure to such events actually occurring. Thanks To: JR Rodrigues of Job Hunt Express |
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106. Flush Away The Fear Of Change
The Worst That Can Happen: The huge fear for entrepreneurs is complete failure and going broke. My former employer (Lehman) took care of that in 2008! My top fear is no longer exhausting my savings or bruising my pride; it’s something more obscure. As a change agent, I fear that my real-substance methodologies may be too early in the cycle and will have a hard time gaining momentum vs. the flashy promises of others. By exposing this fear and remaining self confident, I can now tear it off the roll and flush away. Thanks To: Jon Brause of Startup Officer |
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107. The Worst Fear Of No Response
The Worst That Can Happen: OK, I have to admit it ………….. I was enthused but afraid of no response or acknowledgement for my book I presented to the world. So I decided I was taking myself way too serious and just tried to have fun with it. Thanks To: Carolyn Bartz of SECRETS OF CAT ATTITUDE REVEALED |
108. You Learn To Rebound!
The Worst That Can Happen: Beginning a business is exciting and sometimes terrifying all at the same time. I remember working with a business coach for a period of time and the thing that I learned more than anything else for him is that it isn’t about how many times you FALL down in your business, it’s about HOW FAST and HOW OFTEN you get back in the game. The worst thing that can happen when you begin a business is that you FALL but then you become a PRO “REBOUNDER” by getting back in the game! You can do it! Thanks To: Sarah Cook of Raising CEO Kids |
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109. Just Make It Happen!
The Worst That Can Happen: I was paralyzed by fear in taking my business full-time. I didn’t have the time to grow it but I didn’t have the income from the business to quit my “day job.” I had so much fear of the unknown that held me back. I finally resolved to do what I was passionate about and be successful at it, so I boldly took the first step. Now I make a living helping others overcome their fears and live debt-free. Turns out the fear was unwarranted. I just needed to create a plan, get out there & make it happen. Thanks To: Matt Wegner of Matt Wegner Financial Coaching |
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110. Worry For Nothing!
The Worst That Can Happen: The truth? I had so many fears when I started — unpredictable income, hiring the wrong people, and selling something no one wants to buy. And, over my 15 years, many difficulties have come my way that I didn’t even know I should have worried about! Thanks To: Beverly Flaxington of The Collaborative |
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111. Fears: Moral Support & Returns
The Worst That Can Happen: The story of how I started RibbedTee after getting laid off in Nov 2007 is interesting enough, but you asked about biggest fears. 1) I was worried that my family and friends would find my idea of starting a men’s undershirt company ridiculous, instead of supporting the idea. 2) I was worried that customers would not like our product and inundate us with returns. Thankfully, neither happened & we’ve grown RibbedTee into one of the hottest selling men’s undershirt online in a short 18 months! Thanks To: Mike Schwarz of RibbedTee |
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112. Ready, Set, No Buyers
The Worst That Can Happen: When I started Art By Chocolate my biggest fear was that the product I was offering might be a little too unique and maybe no one would want to pay actual money for LolliChocs. Well, my big fear turned into my biggest selling point and being ‘unique’ added value to the product. Try not to live in the “what if…” world or you’ll never take the leap. By all means conduct due diligence. Hold informal focus groups and make sure your vision is on target. Then Leap! Thanks To: Lee Reizian Holmes of Art By Chocolate LLC |
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113. Push Through And Do Business
The Worst That Can Happen: I am Asadah. I am 38 years wise and had a stroke last year that changed the way I chose to play this game of life. I am now the author of the book, “Beating Black Kids,” about not having to beat our kids to discipline them. Writing this book was a combination of being an effective educator, single mom and person with a big willingness to leave a legacy for my daughter to live from. I left her nothing before. My book now has a large and growing fan club and has sold internationally. Thanks To: Asadah Kirkland of “Beating Black Kids” – The book |
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114. Got To Be In It To Win It.
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear was how I was going to find business to pay the bills. I found that thinking about each conversation as being a job interview helped me prepare and stay ‘match fit’. It was amazing to see my business grow to 240 billing days last year because of that confidence and commitment. If you don’t try you will never know thats my motto. Thanks To: Marc Lawn of The Business GP |
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115. I’ll Look Like A Doofus
The Worst That Can Happen: I had worked for weeks with my friend, convincing her that she should join do a business because it was perfect for her. I knew it was probably perfect for me too, but boy, I didn’t want to get up in front of people and actually TALK. After I just jumped in with two feet and my first presentation brought me a nice bunch of profit I quickly got over the “I’ll look like a doofus” fear! That’s why I’ve started my daughters working with me as well as in businesses of their own. Thanks To: Annette Yen of Show Kids the Money |
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116. Fear – Am I Good Enough?
The Worst That Can Happen: When I began, my worst fear was that I might not be a great organizer, that what I did for myself might not be good enough for others. So I decided to test my “knowledge.” I went to a neighbor’s house and offered to organize her kitchen pantry for free. She loved it. Then I organized someone else’s files, and realized I like organizing files even more than homes. If you are concered that you do not have enough knowledge when starting out, test your expertise for free. Thanks To: Eileen Roth of Everything in its Place |
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117. False Evidence Appearing Real!
The Worst That Can Happen: When I first decided to begin my own private practice, I feared I would not find enough clients to see in my new office and did not know how to find clients to fill up the hours. Then I just decided to try a bunch of low or no-cost ways to get clients: Thanks To: Cindy Brown of Behavior Relationship Inst., Inc. |
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118. Where Are The Tools?
The Worst That Can Happen: When I started my business, my biggest fear was not having everything I was “suppose to have” for starting a business. I had a logo, website, and business cards, but no capitol, no loans, no sales team, no processes and procedures. My Accountant told to me to start working on bringing in business then make processes. We are on year three of our business and have grown every year. We build process and procedures as we finish jobs. It’s help us to be flexible and meet our clients Thanks To: Joshua Monge of Hey, Monge! Ad Agency |
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119. Fear Of Independence
The Worst That Can Happen: Before starting my own pr consulting business, I had more fears than I knew what to do with. My number one fear? Paying for my own health insurance. Fortunately, I was able to join my husband’s company’s plan before he went off on his own. Then I joined the Providence Chamber of Commerce and utilized their member health insurance rates. It was the best decision I made! Thanks To: Jackie Hennessey of Hennessey PR Consulting |
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120. Marketing Is Not The Enemy
The Worst That Can Happen: I left a university career of many years when I started my business and didn’t have a clue about marketing AND had lots of fear about this great unknown! I read books, paid for coaching, attending marketing conferences and grew to love it. Marketing is about educating people about exactly who you are and what you do and how you can help them with your products and services AND for me it is now one of the favorite things I do for my biz. Thanks To: Ann Ronan of Authentic Life Institute |
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121. From Fear To Success!
The Worst That Can Happen: Most entrepreneurs, including me, first experience the thought, “Who am I to say I’m an expert? Therefore I must be a fraud. Everyone will laugh me out of business!” The result of worry is we lose our direction, motivation and are lackluster in business development. Upon being challenged by one, I wrote Nice Girls DO Get the Sale. It made TIME Magazine and sells Worldwide! Credibility was established and Smooth Sale evolved into many forms of training and media moving from doubt to success. Thanks To: Elinor Stutz of Smooth Sale, LLC |
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122. Ignore The Naysayers
The Worst That Can Happen: If you have an idea, and you are passionate about it, then go for it and ignore those who tell you that it won’t work. I wanted to build a business out of giving away free things, and was told by countless people that it was not possible. 6 months in I feared they were right. 7 months later, the business is profitable, and it is turning into a large advertising business. By working hard and staying focused on my goals, I was able to use the naysayers negativity to drive me to succeed. Thanks To: Giancarlo Massaro of Any Lucky Day |
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123. Gotta Find Clients!
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear when I started my company last year was that I wouldn’t be able to find and convert prospects into clients. But I’ve found that through some seriously dedicated networking (re: lots and lots of coffees and lunches), I have met more people than I ever imagined. And even those that don’t personally have work are often willing to forward my information along to their friends, which has led to business. I figure if I fail, I can always look for a job, right? Thanks To: Bonnie Buol Ruszczyk of BBR Marketing |
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124. What If It Turned Out Great?
The Worst That Can Happen: I try to teach my clients, as I used to teach my artists when I had an art gallery. Instead of worrying about the bad things that can happen, why not waste your time worrying it will be fabulous! Worrying never helps, so you may as well worry positively. What would you do with a ton of success? What if you sold a bunch of “it?” Do it enough and you’ll start to make the positive happen. Think: Success without sabotage. This was taught to me my motivational speaker, Patrick Collard. Thanks To: Susan Finch of Susan Finch Publishing |
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125. Taking A Chance=success
The Worst That Can Happen: Making changes can be scary butin order to create success we have to take chances. When I left my high paying position to start my bus. I was a mom with three kids to support and no child support coming in so money was a big worry, but I knew that if I did not take a chance and do my passion and make the change that the stress of the job I had might kill me. It was the best decision I ever made, it was not easy but everyday I got to do what I love best and that is help people soar to greatness. Thanks To: Robbie Motter of Robbie Motter-Contacts Unlimited |
126. Risk, Risk, Reward
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear was RISK. I needed cash to invest so, I pulled from my 401K. Risky. I needed a loan so, I stressed my credit score. Risky. All this risk, no guarantees. But, risk is a necessary evil in business and so far, my biggest fear is my biggest success factor. My fear of risk made me diligent in research, then fully committed to my decisions; conviction alone is an essential for an entrepreneur. Because I was willing to take the risks others won’t, I now have what others don’t. Thanks To: Kindra Hall of Kindra Hall Tells All |
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127. My Biggest Fear Was…
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear when my husband and I launched our company that makes custom digital portraits is that noone would buy any. Kinda like that feeling when you have a garage sale and noone shows up (that happened to me once).TOTALLY the opposite has happened – the response has been great people LOVE their artwork. We decided quality and customer service were key – if people liked the product and us then we would win – you just have to take the plunge and put yourself out there. Thanks To: Anna Eves of DigiPix.Us |
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128. Job Security? Pshhh…
The Worst That Can Happen: I’ve worked full time for a company for about 3 years and ran my business outside of work. I think a lot of people never start their business because of “job security”, but with this recession I think we all know that “job security” does not exist. I have been devoting every ounce of free time to my business so that I can pursue it full time and leave behind the “secure” job. I would advise anyone who wants to start a business to do it – after all, what’s the worst that can happen? Thanks To: Jason McAninch of J-TEK |
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129. Think Of The Options
The Worst That Can Happen: I was influenced by my Father who was in his own business all his adult life. He taught me if you want to make money and be in control of your life then work for yourself. I listened and never looked backed. My biggest challenge was starting and operating my business in Spain as a foreigner. Thanks To: Jerry Pollio of CMT Creative Marketing |
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130. I Thought I’d Die
The Worst That Can Happen: After I wrote the screenplay for my first movie, I was so afraid that I wasn’t capable of making a feature that I believed if I attempted it I’d die. I finished the movie and found, to my amazement, I was still alive! Thanks To: Sondra Lowell of Film Sleepy |
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131. Face Your Fear In Business
The Worst That Can Happen: When you start your own business everything about your work will be under scrutiny. I had to consider whether it was worth it to be in the public eye as a professional psychic. You need to ask if you’re personally ready to face whatever challenges come up. Everyone fears rejection, but if your favorite musician never wrote that first song the world would have missed out on their voice. My work is about empowering others to find their calling, so facing my fear was necessary to do my work. Thanks To: Tori Hartman of Tori Hartman, Inc. |
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132. Revealing A Secret
The Worst That Can Happen: Do you have an idea or invention you haven’t told the world about let alone your best friend? Do you fear someone stealing it? Thanks To: Linda Nagamine of EZ Living Connection |
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133. Afraid To Let The Dogs Out
The Worst That Can Happen: When I started my dog walking business 7 years ago, I didn’t know how to start much less run a business. I was scared I missed filing some important document with the county, state or even worse the IRS. Something that would make my dream come crashing down around me. Many people had opinions on what I needed to do, I was overwhelmed. I had to take a deep breath, then I reached out to successful business owners and learned from their experiences. They wanted to help and wanted me to succeed. Thanks To: Lydia Best of Everything and The Dog |
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134. Flopping
The Worst That Can Happen: My fear was out and out flopping, financial disaster, completely failing! What happened? I didn’t; in fact, I support my family with my business. Thanks To: Gwen Gardner of Simply Chickie/www.SimplyChickieClo |
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135. There Is No Fear
The Worst That Can Happen: My biggest fear was fear itself. I started a new business as an Independent Sales Representative, Someone told me that I was not a sales person, but my last order was for $1002.00 with 15 customers ordering. I told my self over and over that I was a sales champion and I could do it. You need to conger your fears and just do it, you can do it. It is a little scary to start a new business, but it can also be very rewarding. Especially if you work your passion and love what you do. Just do it! Thanks To: Sheila A Caruso of AVON / PRIVATE QUARTERS |
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136. Fear Of The Pipe Dream
The Worst That Can Happen: I was afraid of waiting time and energy into what some well intended, but misguided friends called a “pipe dream.” Starting a business even on a shoestring still takes time and money that one can’t get back. These friends advised me to apply for better jobs at established businesses. A year later, several of these same friends are unemployed and their ’secure’ businesses are bankrupt. Starting a business does take time and energy, but the true pipe dream is finding security in the past. Thanks To: Joseph Joel Sherman of Business Tribes |
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137. Perfume From Dna A Winner
The Worst That Can Happen: Fear? Not in the traditional sense of lack of capital, resources etc… I wanted to create a totally exclusive and revolutionary fragrance formulation, but my product itself leveraged my fears. It meant introducing a new concept that depended on the customer trusting us with their genetic privacy to customize an exclusive one-of-kind bespoke perfume from their DNA. I launched in 2007 to welcoming consumers and global media attention. Take the risk. Thanks To: Carlton Enoch of My DNA Fragrance |
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138. Go Big Or Go Bust!
The Worst That Can Happen: If you are thinking of starting a new business, it is hard not to devote a thought or two to the negative. It is good to be prepared;sort of like prepping before jumping out of an airplane. Just as that information is helpful before letting go of the aircraft into nothingness, so is that first year of being on your own. The worst that can happen is that you fail. No customers, losing cash like autumn leaves. You survive, you learn, you thrive, you get better and succeed! Been there, done that! Thanks To: Doula Angelita of ResurgamBirthingWell8899 |
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139. Don’t Listen To Naysayers
The Worst That Can Happen: Just a few years ago the TintWash brand was only a concept on paper. We began sharing our ideas with family and friends,at which time we received some negative feedback. A friend advised because of the weak economy, we were wasting our investment and time. Majority of the negative feedback came from those with no entrepreneur experience. At one point doubt began to creep into our mission, which cause some delays. Because we stayed on course with our vision and beliefs, TintWash became a reality. Thanks To: Morris Brown of TintWash International |
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140. Bury The Fear & Focus
The Worst That Can Happen: In one of my businesses, I am a partner in a doggie hotel. At the start, between the lease, the investors, the buildout costs & the hunt for clients,disaster was a big fear. But I think the bigger fear for entrepreneurs is if this doesn’t work, then what? To be successful, you must bury the fear & instead focus on the action plan you have designed to make the business a success. If one of those plans blow up,try plan B,then plan C…entrepreneur success is a journey not a destination. Thanks To: Will Corrente of Operation Entrepreneur |
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141. From Janitor To Jeweler
The Worst That Can Happen: At 18 I was selling Fuller Brush cleaning products door to door. I’d finished high school, but college wasn’t on the docket. I couldn’t type, on purpose, because I didn’t want to get sucked down some office-rut road. What was the worst thing that could happen? I might have to get a real job. I also cleaned a few houses for a living, just to keep a variety of activities going. I also enjoyed the quiet of the work after the talking with people in my door-to-door sales work. Thanks To: Calla Gold of Calla Gold Jewelry |
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142. Create A Mindset For Success
The Worst That Can Happen: Last year I decided to leave a top 100 firm, after 7 years, to start my own law firm. I had planned this for almost a year and yet I feared failure. How would I find clients? Would my standard of living change drastically? I squashed FEAR by focusing on my big DREAM, chunking it into goals, then creating an action plan. I am proud to report RA Kerr Law is a successful firm with office in DC & NYC! As far as my standard of living the only thing that has changed is I now look for sales! Thanks To: ROXAN KERR of The Law Offices of RA Kerr, PLLC |
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143. Don’t Be Afraid To Take A Ris
The Worst That Can Happen: I started Shutter Cover 10 years ago. We make a cover for attic/whole house fans that helps homeowners save on utility bills by keeping the heat in during winter, and keeping the cool air in during summer. My biggest fear was, and remains, not having enough money to keep the business going. But we’ve been selling Shutter Cover at Lowes, Ace Hardware and other stores for 4 years, so I guess I can let go of that fear. Advice: surround yourself with people who have a vested interest in your success. Thanks To: Rick Hedgpeth of Shutter Cover |
144. Leave No Stone Un-turned!!
The Worst That Can Happen: My worst fear was that my new business would fail and that I would lose my investment. I’ve had a past business where exactly that happened.That is the first key.Prepare for the worst so that you can recover.If you rnfail, make sure you failed while doing everything in your power to succeed. rnPut in 80 to 100 hours a week.Turn over every stone you can think of.Then,even if you fail,you’ll have more knowledge and more contacts.Analyze why you failed, making sure to never fail in the same way. Thanks To: Jenn Lederer of AFST Management |
Compiled by Mike Michalowicz, Author of The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur
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Tags: entrepreneurs' war stories, mike michalowicz, toilet paper entrepreneur, what's the worst that can happen, Worst case scenario
February 2nd, 2010
[...] http://www.toiletpaperentrepreneur.com/blog/entrepreneurs-tell-us-whats-the-worst-that-can-happen [...]
February 2nd, 2010
The worst that could happen: Nothing.
As in DOING nothing.
That one’s sure to work every time – no doubt, no worries. You’re guaranteed zero results of any kind.
If that’s not what you want, don’t do Nothing. Try Something instead!
February 2nd, 2010
[...] article on the Business Worst Case Scenarios from the Toilet Paper Entrepreneur looks at business owners’ fears–and how they [...]
February 2nd, 2010
@Dan – Bam! You nailed it. The worst is the status quo. NEVER SETTLE FOR THE STATUTS QUO.
February 3rd, 2010
Its better to have loved and lost then to not have loved at all. I think many entrepreneurs face fear everyday. Fear that their business will not succeed. But to succeed we must all believe, believe in ourselves and our idea. Worst case we’ll evolve or change the idea to get it to work.
Keep looking forward and you’ll keep moving forward.
Most of all keep your expenses down. Take advantage of all the free resources online and otherwise. These days you can build a website for free with Wordpress.
James Todd
Publisher: BuildMySiteforFree.com
February 3rd, 2010
@James – Yes! Better to have loved and lost…. so, so true.
February 5th, 2010
For me the worst that can happen is that I try and try but not actually get anywhere. It would be terrible to feel like I was a “failed entrepreneur” who never made it….