In order to stay positive, entrepreneurs need to lie to themselves a lot. Unfortunately, this can get them into trouble when they have improbable expectations and surprising outcomes as a result.
Below are the 7 biggest lies and the truth about what to do instead:
Sales Will be Better Next Month
Many entrepreneurs believe that sales will always increase in the future. They reason that with more revenue, there will be more profitable.
The truth: They don’t change their sales and marketing efforts to give their company a better chance at actually increasing sales. To boost revenue, companies need to be there when customers want to buy. Only a systematic sales and marketing effort will accomplish this.
The Next Big Customer (or Product or Employee) Will Change Your Company Forever
The belief is that the next big break will take their company to the next level.
The truth: Progress in companies typically builds slowly and success doesn’t usually have a tipping point. Think about the essential building blocks that will grow the company step by step.
Big Money Means Taking Big Risks
They read the urban folklore of the few who took big risks and made billions.
The truth: Most people fail. The success in business comes from taking small steps, evaluating the results, and taking the next action.
Competitors Are Slow
Many entrepreneurs think that their competitors are not innovative and can’t react quickly. Tell that to Blockbuster and Borders.
The truth: There will always be a competitor developing a better mousetrap. The entrepreneur needs to know what their competitive advantage will be when that day comes.
Keeping the Financials in Your Head is Okay
Many entrepreneurs believe that they do not need to review their company financial statements.
The truth: Most of the time their expectations do not match what is actually going on. This is why it’s important to read and understand these statements every month.
Getting Paid Last in Your Business is Acceptable
The reason that they are investing in their company and this is how they justify living off of savings while running a startup.
The truth: If an entrepreneur does not draw a livable wage from their company, they have a hobby, not a business. Always include the owner’s salary in the monthly budget.
Being Busy Means Being Productive
Many entrepreneurs believe if they are busy at work – then they must be adding to the value of the company.
The truth: With all the distractions and interruptions that can enter an entrepreneur’s daily life, they need to be very disciplined that they focus on projects that will make a deep impact on the company. Pick the two things that need to get done today and complete them before starting any other task.
What lies do you tell yourself?
About Author:
Barry Moltz gets small business owners unstuck. With decades of entrepreneurial ventures as well as consulting with countless other entrepreneurs, he has discovered the formula to get business owners marching forward. His newest book, BAM! shows how in a social media world, customer service is the new marketing.
Original Article Via smallbiztrends.com
Barry and smallbiztrends.com are not associated with Enterprise Insurance Group. Articles are posted for the education of our visitors.
