I am not going to lie. Running a business is freaking hard work. Don’t be fooled otherwise.
There is the constant threat of the empty bank account, that ego that pops up and tells you you’re not good enough, the potential client who told you were too expensive leaves a feeling of doubt. There is always something that keeps you on your toes!
I’ve been doing this now for only about 10 years, in this 10 years I’ve experienced three completely different support networks.
Relationships within your support network does not have to be of the romantic nature, it can be friends or family. Those that are closest to you and are your go to people when things are good or bad. People you respect and admire. My family live far away so it’s generally romantic relationships, friendships or colleagues that form my support networks.
My support network has ranged from toxic, non-existent and super supportive and I have to say each state has had a different affect on how well I ran my business.
Here is my experience.
The toxic
You’re not good enough.
You work all the time.
What about me?
Perhaps you should get a Job.
Heard these before?
With it comes guilt, low confidence and self doubt. All being projected onto you because of their own experience, it has nothing to do with you.
The non existent
You work like a mofo.
You burn out.
You lose perspective.
Life? What life?
You get loads of work done but you become a bore. The blinkers are on.
The supportive
I believe in you.
I trust you.
It’s going to work out.
Someone to help you celebrate the wins now matter how small they are.
Having someone to help cheer me on has helped me through the tough times (when previously I’d curl up in a ball and hide). They’ve helped me workshop ideas when I get stuck (even if they have no idea what I am talking about).
Ditch the negative
Just having that positive influence in your life can completely change the momentum of your business. It’s crazy but it’s true.
That single seed of doubt can turn into a forest of self destruction. If you’re constantly around the negativity, then chances are you’ll end up believing it. If you can’t escape it, just don’t talk to those negative people about your business, if they bring it up change the subject.
Find a coach, a mentor or a business associate to lift you up and allow you to talk things through.
Do you have a good support network? Your own personal cheer squad? Leave a comment below.