It’s tempting to wait for the approval, the likes, the confirmation, and then move forward. Most people can’t dream as big as you, can’t imagine what’s possible. What if you have to take the first step before the next door opens?

When I launched a media business years ago to write about entrepreneurs and startups, it was before LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Other than word of mouth, there was no way for people to hear the exciting things that startups were doing - the clutch hires, the strategic deals, the angel and venture investments. Regional magazines and business journals were only writing about the big corporate news; they didn’t have the interest or ability to see the wave of local content coming, the innovation economy on the horizon.

At the time, I worked for an organization investing in entrepreneurship and tech businesses. I pitched them on the idea of letting me write a weekly newsletter to distribute across the region - to investors, talent for hire, economic development leaders, and other founders looking for connection and inspiration. I was passionate about sharing the startups’ accomplishments and believed in the momentum this news would create across the region. The organization said no. So, I launched the business on the side, and eventually, I left my full-time job. Later, that same organization became one of my biggest advertisers. You know what they said, “Who knew?!”

What if you see it now? What if it’s your vision that leads others? Don’t wait for those who can’t see what’s possible or don’t share your passion. Put the work you are called to do out there, share your ideas, talents, or products. Opportunities reward those in motion. Post the photos, tell your story, invite buyers and business. There are tons of ways to test the waters now. (The beauty of social media.) What’s one next step you can take today to move your dream forward?

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Creating a rich repository of your skills and talents is part of launching a successful business. (Think of it as your pot of gold.) The story of your entrepreneur evolution reveals how you capitalize on luck while unlocking opportunities. Are you embracing the chance to be your own lucky charm?

As the sparkling personality who attracts your clients, team, and partners, where can people connect to learn more about you? Where are you sharing the lessons and accomplishments, the foundation, of the business you’re building?

People buy from people. In my business, the data confirms that our “About” page has been a consistently top-viewed story for years. Buyers want a look behind the scenes to be inspired by you and find a connection. Do you have a simple web page dedicated to your evolving and exciting journey? If not, I encourage you to consider adding one today. (Hint: a web page that you own and update, not an app.)

“Luck is where preparation meets opportunity,” as the saying goes. If you’ve skipped this preparation part (sharing your story), I offer these points to consider what you may be missing:

Potential customers want to know who they support when purchasing your goods or services. Promoting only products and offers without sharing your story as the leader and executive leaves people wondering who is behind the mission and why is it important to you?

Beyond value, your journey communicates how you’re qualified to deliver on commitments, and it builds trust. The successes and challenges you’re hiding translate to valuable lessons and experiences—knowledge that only comes from doing and being in the trenches. Be proud of them.

A well-crafted “About” page is an opportunity to establish credibility by telling the genuine story of how your interests, talents, and passions converged to prompt the start of the business. No one has your exact background; share this valuable and unique aspect.

Your experience attracts clients who appreciate the passion and persistence you’ve demonstrated to get to this point. It’s a chance to connect with customers on another level. The “right” clients (the ones who are a natural fit) will appreciate your journey and be moved to learn more about how to work with you.

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