Being around so many professionals from all different walks allows me to be inquisitive and candid. I like to ask intriguing and sometimes thought-provoking questions. In the last 15 years, I’ve become an advocate for small business owners. I like to think I’ve got a keen eye for people who are capable of running their own businesses. Granted, owning your own business is NOT for everyone, but I sure have a strong gut instinct for those who should. I’ve mentored quite a few women who have started their own businesses. I really enjoy watching their success.
When I meet someone who is very successful and busy making money for someone else, I ask, “Have you ever thought about running your own business?”
More often than not, I hear many of the excuses that Jeff Haden brings up in his post on Inc.com entitled, “15 Worst Excuses Not to Be an Entrepreneur.”
These are some of the classics:
- I’m too scared.
- I don’t have the right connections.
- I’m too late.
- I don’t have the money.
- I can’t take that risk.
and my personal favorite:
- It’s too hard.
Having run my own business for more than 16 years, I have had many times of it being hard. Sure, I’ve had sleepless nights, but when I look at the quality of my life, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. As Haden says, I’m living my life on my own terms. Immense joy and freedom comes from that. You should try it. •
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It certainly epitomizes ‘the worst of times, the best of times.’ Congratulations on a fascinating publication!