Attention Entrepreneurs: Stop Your “Hustle”, “Grind” and “Struggle”
Your words have more power than you could ever imagine. So what happens when you adopt the hustle, struggle and grind mentality that you’re “supposed” to have as an entrepreneur or business owner?
You may have a shirt or mug with a version of one of these phrases…
“Rise and Grind”
“The Hustle is Real”
“The Struggle is Necessary”
It’s become the mantra for entrepreneurs and new business owners. “I’ve gotta struggle, hustle and grind to make it” you think to yourself.
Really?! When did that become desirable or cool?
That’s the mindset you want to wake up to everyday? That’s your inspiration for leaving your cozy guaranteed paycheck with benefits and days off?
“Sleep is for the weak. I’ll sleep with I’m dead.”
Good luck with that. Sleep deprivation is the killer of your healthy, clarity and creativity. You know, those necessary elements needed to start and run a business.
“Entrepreneurship is risky. I’ve gotta throw everything I have at it.”
Yes, with anything there are risks, but before you go investing in online master classes, programs, software and virtual assistants, get yourself a plan. Sit down and think about what you want to accomplish. Well first make sure you get some sleep and are hydrated (self-care is paramount). Calculate your risks.
Get Real With Yourself.
What are you willing to lose financially, energetically, logistically? How much time do you currently have to spare? What is reasonable to accomplish with that time? Can you stay in your current position while you build your dream?
What’s Your Urgency Really About?
Anytime I hear people talk about their business with any of those three words, it’s a red flag. This can be about proving to others that you’re a success, challenging the naysayers, or providing for your family. The common theme — these are all externally charged, which makes you more prone to burn out and a short fuse of patience.
“Well I didn’t mean those words like that.”
Words are powerful and also provide clues to inner dialogues. I suggest you explore your own internal conversation about what being an entrepreneur is really about. It’s not glamorous, but no where is it written that you can’t enjoy yourself, have a balanced life or have fun. If you want to chase those millions and billions, go for it, but first ask yourself why. Why is that figure or target so important? How will it change things in your life? What small steps can you take today towards living your most fulfilling life?
“Do you not like money or something?”
Oh I love money! I love saving it, investing it and earning it. I know it flows and comes in when I’m in my most powerful state. When I stop worrying what everyone thinks or where the next check is going to come from, I take the necessary steps to attract in awesome opportunities.
The next time you think about your finances — do you want to grind, hustle or struggle? Choose your words carefully. They have more power than you think.
What Kind of Business Owner Are You?
This will help you to determine your next and necessary steps depending on your involvement in the business.
Day-Dreamer
You plan and plan, but find it more enjoyable to dream about what your business could be. You’re not quite sure what you need to know, but you definitely don’t like sticking your neck out without more information and a plan.
Potential Risk: None
Financial Investment: None
Potential Reward: None
Hobbyist
You dabble on the weekends and when you get requests from friends. You’re not wanting to put more than a couple of hours in a month. It provides some play money, but you’re not ready to leave your job and take the plunge.
Potential Risk: Low
Financial Investment: Low – Depending on Project. If you’re into tech, this can get costly.
Potential Reward: Low – Spending Money
Side Hustler
Every ounce of free time outside of your 9-5, you’re working on your business idea. You’re putting in 10-40 hours a week on this and love what you’re doing. It’s only a matter of time before you take it to the next level and do it full time.
Potential Risk: Mid-Level, Depending on Industry and Project
Financial Investment: More than Hobbyist, but Not as High as the All-In Entrepreneur. You may invest your revenue back in your business
Potential Reward: Mid-Level, Could Provide Financial Security and Additional Lifestyle Options
All-In Entrepreneur
You have taken the courageous step into self-employment and walked away from your corporate security blanket. You are ready to give this everything you’ve got to make it successful. This is your dream and you know you can build an amazing company.
Potential Risk: High
Financial Investment: High
Potential Reward: High
Which Kind of Business Owner Are You? ______________________________________________
Which Kind of Business Owner Do You Want to Be? ______________________________________________