So you've started your business, but you're really struggling to come to terms with how difficult it is.
Those sales projections in your business plan are looking increasingly out of touch with the reality of securing orders.
York Zucchi, a Swiss entrepreneur who has built a pan-African business in the primary healthcare sector, offers the following reality checks to budding entrepreneurs: Forget about making a lot of money quickly. The reality is that it is highly unlikely you will. It takes time ... lots of time, lots of hard work, long hours and most probably more tears than you care to shed.
This is the reality, so don’t overdramatize when things are going badly. This is all part of your entrepreneurial adventure. As with any long journey, there are uphills and downhills. Bring perspective to your journey and don’t simply throw in the towel when things aren't going as you intended.
Don't expect to make 'perfect' decisions, which means you shouldn't beat yourself over the head for making mistakes. These are a natural progression of your development as an entrepreneur. Rather make the best decision you can, and roll it with.
Avoid becoming that person with a list of businesses as long as your arm. People tend to not take these jacks-of-all-trades very seriously - quality overrides quantity any day of the week. Rather focus on what you're good at, and stick to it.
Realize that people you engage with are equally busy and that you're likely but one meeting/idea on their table. The reality is that you are more than likely not their priority.
Key takeaway: When things are not going as you'd expected, the responsibility rests on you to find a way to make things work. Simply sitting back and complaining is not going to solve your problems. Get up, brush yourself off and get on with the business of being an entrepreneur.
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