Expecting the Ebb and Flow

Some weeks are an easy climb, others are a slow crawl. It’s what you learn managing through the ebb and flow of entrepreneurship, of business cycles. As a new business owner, what’s the best thing you can do for yourself? Instead of fighting it, expect it. Change is part of the deal. It’s a normal piece of the puzzle. Those who succeed don’t have all the answers; here’s what they do have. 

Trust that what you don’t yet know, you will learn. Don’t get knocked off course when the tides change - and they will. Connecting with customers, writing with ease, or launching a product is rewarding, exciting. Enjoy these times, stay focused, and ride the acceleration, not on a whim, but by being aware of what’s happening around you, intentional in your decisions, and making the most of opportunities.

When a shift happens - in the world, your industry, your business - decide that you will handle what comes next. This is where I see a big disconnect with new business owners. Something is harder, takes longer, is unexpected, and you’re afraid because you don’t have the answer. Suddenly, you’re wading into the unknown. Peace of mind (and the answers) comes with a new perspective. 

When the words aren’t flowing, the calls aren’t returned, or your timing is off, don’t throw in the towel or make it mean you are failing. It’s a data point, a chance to learn, adapt, and refine. It is not the time to apply more pressure or sit idly on the sidelines. In these moments, be curious, name what is working, then explore what isn’t. Take one step at a time with confidence, knowing you will figure it out. 

Be that steady hand on the wheel, trying, testing, and tweaking. Then decide, move forward. And the cycle begins again. 

Navigating the Unexpected

How do you navigate change when the waters turn murky and the way forward shifts without warning? You’re more in control than you think.

Clients, colleagues, and friends are adjusting to unexpected changes impacting their lives in immediate and unpredictable ways. If you enjoy life long enough, this is part of the journey. I have been there many times.

I used to believe I had no control over this. Now, I know how I think about these challenges will either slow or speed the arrival of my next opportunity.

With time and intention, we add skills, resources, and different ways of thinking to our toolbox. These skills help you process situations with grace, self-love, and determination. Know that on the other side of uncertainty are opportunities and new beginnings. Keep moving forward.

As Duke women’s basketball coach Kara Lawson says, “We learn to deal with hard better.”

When you find yourself navigating change, drop these two skills into your mental toolbox to guide you to your next opportunity:

Look through the lens of possibility. Revisit your past experiences, capture your milestone moments, and turning points. Look with an eye on the lessons and skills you extracted from both the good and the grind. Write down each skill you gained. What happened, and what skills translate to your next chapter? (Resilience, calm in crisis, project management?)

Adjust your perspective, not focused on an industry, company, or employer. Note all you gained that is useful and sets you apart - communication, problem solving, team leadership, or something else? Craft your unique founder story (Read more on this here.), meaning your foundation story, whether you’re entering a new job, career, or launching a business. Tell your story of inspiration and growth. Be proud of what you’ve accomplished, overcome, and learned.

Adopt “yes, and…” thinking, create a path forward. Acknowledge that things aren’t great, recognize you’re in the midst of sadness or challenges, AND that you can take one step forward. Don’t stop at rehashing circumstances; add the “and” to finish with what’s next: And, I can call a friend for help, write the email, brainstorm ideas, or rest. It’s a subtle shift that makes a big difference. You’re not dwelling on the situation; you open a way forward. Catch yourself next time you’re tempted to stop at the crisis thinking, add the “and” to see how it pulls you forward.

This isn’t the time to shrink. Stay the course, be proactive with what’s in your sights that inspires and elevates your thinking. Learning to navigate the unexpected will lead to your next vibrant chapter.

Magnify Your Momentum

What causes the biggest delay in making sales as an entrepreneur? It’s hiding behind screens. 

In the early days, when you’re trying to build traction, old-fashioned shoe leather is the ultimate tool, and it’s one many try to avoid. We trick ourselves into believing that social media will drive sales, and for the majority of solopreneurs, especially those new to the role, it doesn’t happen. 

The benefits of human-to-human meetings are unmatched. You learn a ton of valuable information when you see their expressions, hear their questions, objections, and gauge their enthusiasm. This priceless insight informs a wealth of areas, including your messaging, content, and product development. 

One strategy that’s worked for me is to begin with a single geographic area, one immediately around you. Start where you’re known and already have connections. Networking is easier in familiar territory, as it allows you to meet future customers in person and return for follow-up appointments. It’s also efficient. 

While it’s tempting to hide behind your screens, don’t be fooled into relying on social media and the noise it creates in your head, not to mention the time it takes. Step into the field, lead with you, your passion for helping customers solve a pressing problem, and your enthusiasm for your product or service. 

As you move through these client interactions, you can then post on social media what you learn, where you go, and what’s happening behind the scenes—a beautiful blend of online and in-person. 

This is how you magnify your momentum. You meet contacts, expand your connections, fill your knowledge toolbox, like a domino effect, opening one door and then another.