1. Fear of the Unknown. Most of us are risk averse. We like predictability, to know what’s going to happen, to be able to plan the next few months with security. The problem is that if you know what’s going to happen, you’re preventing opportunity for change. And growth usually doesn’t happen without change. Yes, there will be some times that you will lose out financially by taking a risk – but it’s an inevitable part of growth, and if you avoid it, you’re sure to lose out.
2. Dissecting Failures. While a small measure of introspection will help you learn from your mistakes, too much reflection shifts your focus to short-term growth instead of the long-term vision. Part of growth is about trying new things. Naturally, you’re not going to succeed at all of them, and yes, you will make mistakes. But those are part of growth, and “failing” in some ways is part of a healthy growth plan.
3. Commitment to the Plan. When you start off, you have a plan and a vision of where that will take you. But life is all about change and bends in the road. When circumstances deviate from your plan, can you adapt accordingly? When an opportunity knocks on your door, do you greet it? Yes, I know, that opportunity wasn’t written on your business plan – but now that you have it, can you adapt to include it?
4. Obedience. Listening to others is a great thing to do. But only you know what’s best for yourself and your business. If you’re going to follow someone’s advice, make sure you keep your thinking cap on, that they’re not subjective or biased in any way, and that you get other opinions on the matter. And never make a decision too quickly. Take the time to think and reflect and make sure that all decisions you make are comfortable for you. If it’s not, that means someone is taking advantage of you, or that you’re letting someone else direct your vision of growth.
5. Lack of Confidence. There’s something known as the “expert’s fallacy”. That means that most experts think their level of knowledge is average. Because of that, they don’t believe in their full potential because they think it’s beyond their capabilities. Change that mindset. Find a good support group of people that look up to you, and look at yourself through their eyes. Start to dream bigger and expand your horizons, and aim for things you never thought possible. The worst that will happen is that it won’t work. But in the best case scenario, you’ll have catapulted yourself to a whole new life. Everyone starts off small. It’s only because they dreamed that they are able to achieve tremendous growth.
Keep these points in mind as you embark on your journey of growing a successful business. Good luck!