entrepreneurship – Success Strategies

Which Type of Entrepreneur Are You And What’s Your Biggest Challenge?

Life’s too short to learn from your own mistakes. Learn from others.

Every entrepreneur faces moments of doubt, exhaustion, and uncertainty. First-time founders, side hustlers, and small business owners constantly navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Whether they are launching their first startup, grinding through a side hustle, or scaling past a plateau; mindset shifts and motivation is needed to keep pushing forward.

Here are the top 5 Challenges Entrepreneurs face. As you review these characteristics, which can you identify with the most?

1.The First-Time Founder (0-2 years in business)

Characteristic: Everything is new, scary, and overwhelming. They’re discovering that entrepreneurship is 10 times harder than they imagined. Every setback feels like potential failure.

What they’re dealing with:

Imposter syndrome at peak levels
No roadmap or proven process to follow
Financial stress and uncertainty
Isolation (left their corporate network behind)
Constant self-doubt about their decisions

How to Stay Motivated: “You’re not alone in feeling this way.” Know that “It gets easier as you learn”

2.The Side Hustler (Building while Employed)

Characteristic: They’re living a double life. They are exhausted, stretched thin, and constantly questioning if they should quit their job or give up the dream.

What they’re dealing with:

Working 60-80 hour weeks between job + business
Guilt about time away from family
Progress feels painfully slow
Watching others succeed faster
Energy depletion and burnout risk

How to Stay Motivated: “Your pace is valid” + “Every hour invested compounds”

3.The Struggling Scaler (Stuck at a revenue plateau)

Characteristic: They’ve proven the concept works, but can’t break through to the next level. The excitement has worn off, replaced by grinding frustration.

What they’re dealing with:

Revenue flatlined for 6-12+ months
Doing everything themselves (can’t afford to hire)
Comparing themselves to “overnight successes”
Questioning their business model
Burnout from working IN the business vs ON it

How to Stay Motivated: “Plateaus are part of growth” + “Breakthrough is closer than you think”

4.The Solopreneur (No co-founder, no team)

Characteristic: They make every decision alone, celebrate wins alone, and face failures alone. The loneliness is crushing.

What they’re dealing with:

Decision fatigue (no one to bounce ideas off)
Wearing every hat (CEO, marketer, accountant, customer service)
No one to catch them if they fall
Feeling like giving up but having no one to hold them accountable
Craving validation that they’re on the right track

How to stay Motivated: “Your independence is strength” + “Solitude doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong”

5.The Comeback Entrepreneur (Failed before, trying again)

Characteristic: They’re carrying baggage from past failures. Every challenge triggers memories of “what happened last time.” They need courage to keep going despite the scars.

What they’re dealing with:

Fear of repeating past mistakes
Judgment from people who saw them fail
Financial pressure (often starting with less capital)
Self-trust issues (“Can I actually do this?”)
Imposter syndrome amplified by previous failure

How to Stay Motivated: “Failure was data, not destiny” + “Most successful entrepreneurs failed first”

Honorable Mentions:

The Mid-Life Career Changer: Left stability for uncertainty, facing age discrimination and “what have I done?” panic
The Minority/Underrepresented Entrepreneur: Fighting systemic barriers while building, needing validation in spaces that don’t always welcome them
The Post-Pivot Founder: Had to abandon their original idea and start over, grieving the old vision while building the new one

Which did you identify with most? Deeply reflect and if you need help, let’s connect.

Otherwise, gift a copy of 101+ Empowering Quotes to the entrepreneur in your life. It’s available in eBook, paperback, and hardcover formats, all under $20. It’s the thoughtful gift that fits in a stocking and inspires all year long.

What makes this gift special? It’s genuinely useful. Unlike generic presents that collect dust, this book becomes a go-to resource on tough days. The portable size fits perfectly in stockings, bags, and on desks. And at under $20, you can afford to gift it to your entire network of entrepreneurs, coworkers, or team members.

Give the gift of daily inspiration. Give them the reminder that they’re not alone in this journey.

What’s The Perfect Door Prize? 21 Gift Ideas for Networking Events That Shine

Show up. Let yourself be seen. ~Brene Brown

What’s a networking event without door prizes? Boring (smile). So, event organizers encourage gifts. They are a simple yet powerful way to boost engagement, excitement, and attendance at networking events. They create a sense of the anticipation and fun, making the event more memorable for participants. Door prizes also encourage people to arrive on time, stay longer, and interact more freely with others. Besides entertainment, they offer a subtle marketing opportunity for sponsors, hosts, or businesses to showcase their products or services in a positive light.

The PSL Business Club asked the question: “What is the Perfect door prize to give away at networking events?” Members chimed in. Some suggested giving what you would like to receive. Others suggested giving away high-end gifts that will make you the talk of the event. Gift these over several periods and you’re sure to leave a lasting memory. Here I share key gift ideas extracted as members chimed in.

Gifts That Shine

Wellness bundle energy drinks
Journal, fun pen, small devotional or motivational card set
Cute mugs which says “let’s connect over coffee”
Pair a small gift care ($10-$15) with a handwritten note or business card enclosing a product sample
Branded item that’s actually helpful
Gift cards to local restaurants.
Something useful like Coffee gift cards
Wine or Vodka
Dark chocolate and a gift card or voucher to try branded services
Cool shirt
Stanley or Yeti cup
Gift baskets
Branded swag bundle from the host company
Branded items or one/two from local businesses or gift certificates
Candy
Homemade cookies
Hand-painted items
Chocolates from a chocolatier
Beach accessories
Fun items that’s non-business related
Dot card… to make sharing information easier at networking event

High-End Gifts

Higher end gifts creates a lasting memory of your brand. Such gifts are:

Massage or Spa packages
Weekend getaway at hotel
Dinner for two at a high-end/classy restaurant
Tickets to a concert/play

There you have it! Here’s hoping it takes the guess work out of your gift giving when attending your next event.

30 Common Side Hustles To Choose From …

It’s not how much money you make, but how much money you keep, how hard it works for you, and how many generations you keep it for.
Robert Kiyosaki

Women often face unique financial challenges due to various societal, economic, and cultural factors. These challenges have been exacerbated especially since the pandemic. To become financially independent simple solutions through participating in additional income streams can help.

There are many side hustles people pursue to earn extra income. Here’s a list of common and popular options.

Freelance writing or editing
Virtual assistance
Social media management
Online tutoring or teaching
Web design or development
Graphic design
Photography or videography
Rideshare driving (Uber, Lyft)
Food delivery services (DoorDash, Uber Eats)
Pet sitting or dog walking
House cleaning or organizing services
Personal shopping or errand running
Selling handmade items on Etsy
Dropshipping or e-commerce
Blogging or vlogging
Podcast hosting
Affiliate marketing
Renting out a spare room on Airbnb
Selling items on eBay or Amazon
Online surveys or user testing
Transcription services
Voice acting or voiceover work
Personal training or fitness coaching
Lawn care or landscaping
Car detailing
Bookkeeping or accounting services
Resume writing
Translation services
Music lessons
Event planning or coordination

Before You Choose

When considering a side hustle, it’s important to:

Assess your skills and interests
Consider the time commitment required
Evaluate the potential income versus effort
Ensure it doesn’t conflict with your primary job
Research any legal or tax implications

Did any of the above side hustles appeal to you? Here’s hoping you got a few ideas to choose from. The only caution is to make sure that your skills are up to par with the side hustle selected. And also to be mindful of your work/life balance.

Happy Hustling!

10 Emerging Trends Of The Executive Coaching Industry

If you walk in the footprints of others you will never make your own.

Leader overwhelm. Personal transitions. Change. Stuck. These are but a few of the signs associated with coaching. As these signs become more common, so has the evolution of the demand for coaching. No longer is it limited to basketball players, Olympians, or sports, we all need a coach. Hence the rise compounded with the needs and desires for accountability.

The executive coaching industry has been growing rapidly, driven by increased recognition of its value in personal and professional development. Here are some interesting facts and trends about the industry:

Interesting Facts

Market Growth: The executive coaching industry is part of the larger coaching market, which was estimated to be worth over $2.8 billion globally in 2021 and continues to grow at a robust pace.
High ROI: Studies have shown that executive coaching can offer a return on investment (ROI) of up to 700%, with significant improvements in productivity, employee engagement, and leadership effectiveness.
Wide Adoption: Approximately 86% of companies utilize coaching, and about 70% of these organizations offer coaching to their executives and high-potential employees.
Diverse Applications: Executive coaching is used across various sectors including corporate, non-profit, and government organizations. It addresses a wide range of leadership challenges, from strategic thinking to emotional intelligence.
Credentials and Standards: The industry has seen an increase in professional standards, with many coaches obtaining certifications from organizations like the International Coach Federation (ICF) and the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE).

Emerging Trends

Integration of Technology: The use of digital tools, AI, and virtual platforms has become prevalent, making coaching more accessible and personalized. Online coaching platforms and apps are increasingly popular.
Focus on Well-being: There is a growing emphasis on holistic coaching that includes mental health and well-being alongside traditional leadership and performance coaching.
Data-Driven Coaching: The incorporation of data analytics and psychometric assessments is helping to provide more tailored and effective coaching interventions.
Diversity and Inclusion: Coaching programs are increasingly addressing issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, helping leaders to foster inclusive workplace cultures.
Short-Term, High-Impact Sessions: There is a trend towards shorter, more intensive coaching engagements designed to address specific challenges or goals in a condensed timeframe.
Group and Team Coaching: Beyond one-on-one coaching, there is a rise in group and team coaching, which aims to improve overall team dynamics and performance.
Leadership Development Programs: More organizations are integrating executive coaching into broader leadership development programs, recognizing the synergistic benefits.
Coaching for All Levels: While traditionally reserved for senior executives, coaching is increasingly being made available to employees at all levels, including mid-level managers and emerging leaders.
Emphasis on Soft Skills: There is a heightened focus on developing soft skills such as emotional intelligence, communication, and resilience, which are critical for effective leadership.
Sustainable Leadership: Coaching is increasingly focusing on sustainable leadership practices, encouraging leaders to consider the long-term impact of their decisions on people and the planet.

Personally, as a certified leadership coach, These trends reflect the dynamic nature of the executive coaching industry and its critical role in developing effective leaders in our rapidly changing business environment.

What has been your experience in coaching? Anything missing from the above? Do share. We would love to hear!

Cheers!

New Entrepreneurs Growing Pains: 5 Factors To Consider

Entrepreneur Growing Pains

Joy was excited about launching her business and she did! Now six months later, she has been finding it difficult to survive financially. With rising debt and living expenses, she is unable to make ends meet. She reached out for coaching to tackle her inner stress while pondering if she had made a mistake.

This situation is common to many first-time entrepreneurs. Statistics show that many small businesses fail during the first year. Most ponder giving up or staying the course. The decision between working on their new business or getting a job often depends on various factors. Here are a few:

Financial Stability: If an entrepreneur’s financial situation is precarious and their business isn’t generating immediate income, getting a job might be necessary to cover living expenses and support the business financially.
Business Stage: Early-stage businesses might require time and effort before becoming profitable. In such cases, working on the business while having a part-time job or a source of stable income could be a feasible option.
Learning Curve: New entrepreneurs might benefit from working in the industry they’re entering. A job can offer insights, experience, and networking opportunities that can be invaluable for their business.
Time Commitment: Running a business demands a significant time commitment. If the business requires full-time attention to get off the ground, working solely on the business might be necessary initially.
Risk Tolerance: Some entrepreneurs prefer to dedicate all their time and energy to their business, even if it means financial strain initially, while others might opt for a more gradual approach to reduce financial risk.

In many cases, a hybrid approach—working part-time or freelancing while gradually growing the business—can strike a balance between financial stability and business development. It allows entrepreneurs to sustain themselves while dedicating time to their entrepreneurial venture.

Ultimately, it’s crucial to assess individual circumstances, weigh the pros and cons, and make a decision that aligns with both the financial needs and the growth potential of the business.

Are you a new entrepreneur experiencing first year growth pains? Which of the above will you adopt and apply to your situation? Are there any others that you have considered? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Busy Is Good…

A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.

George Bernard Shaw

Success Strategies

Busy is good. That’s my favorite response to entrepreneurs who express that they are busy.

You see, we have all been there when there is nothing to do. No job. No contract. No financial inflow. What frequently follows is sadness, apathy, boredom, inability to meet financial obligations and the list goes on. For sure that ain’t good for our mental state and wellbeing.

Among Others

An 80-year-old grandmother was busy going to the gym, church, shopping, Medical visits to the doctor. Those activities kept her busy. It made her feel alive. Then suddenly her husband also retired. Now they both sit at home watching golf, tennis, jeopardy and wheel of fortune on TV. This past weekend she spent time in the hospital. Latency had stepped in.

The Deal

That’s what happens when we are not busy. It happens to entrepreneurs, workers, student or retirees. There’s no respect of persons.

For…

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Entrepreneurs Speak…

Success Strategies

What’s the Biggest Lesson Learnt in the Last 12 months?

The question was asked of entrepreneurs and business owners. What is your biggest lesson learnt in the past 12 months? More than 1,300 individuals replied. I’ll share excerpts.

You’ve gotta push beyond your comfort zone
Just do it. Don’t think too much, and don’t let your fear overcome you and stop you from taking the step
Money is just an illusion
Humility
Gratitude
Appreciate and value people in your circle
Patience
We become what we think
Don’t trust people
Reduce your debt. Dont borrow to buy luxury
You are responsible for everything, including most importantly yourself
Life will hit you with a brick on the head at the most unexpected times. Don’t panic, stay positive, and move on.
Focus on what’s ahead
Don’t be afraid of changes
Stop being a people pleaser
Read, read, read
Time waits for no one…regrets hurt…

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Goals: Don’t Wait. Don’t Look Back…

Success Strategies

“Run love! Run!” Those were the words I shouted to my preschooler when she was running track on her first school’s sports day. We found out that she had talent very early. She started running and when she discovered that she was way out ahead of the other runners, she stopped to look back for the other kids in the race. And if that was not enough, she decided to wait on them to catch up with her. It was a hilarious sight! Indeed it was no surprise when she became Famous for this little feat.

But aren’t we a lot like that at times? We are making huge progress towards our goals, dreams, and aspirations, then we stop. It seems too good to be true. We wait and before realize it, we have missed our path and go off track.

As we approach yearend, how have you been progressing…

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Goals. Every Move Must Be Strategic…

The essence of strategy is choosing what not to do.
Michael Porter

When I started Playing the Word game I usually just think of a word and simply moved. For me it was just to play my turn whether it was a solo game or playing with a family member. My purpose was to simply keep connected. However I found that my sister (though I know she loves me), played defensively. Every move she made was strategic. So I began doing the same. Losing cannot always be the end result. I began to play with the end in mind. I asked myself… what do I want to achieve? It turned out to be 1) learning or being exposed to new words which extended my vocabulary; 2) keep connected to my family virtually; and finally 3) to win. With those goals in mind, every move I now make was for a purpose. Not only did I want to remain connected, but I also wanted to win.

Every Move Is For A Purpose

As I reflected, I began applying this to life. How can we apply that same strategy to achieve our lifelong dreams and goals to make sense? How can we ensure that every decision we make impacts our desire to achieve? Is it career selection, job change, entrepreneurship endeavor, business investment, relationships or starting a family? How can we ensure every decision is strategic?

There have been many household names who made major business decisions to form a partnership such as the McDonald’s Fast Food chain, or as Steve Jobs did with Apple. It may even be as simple as keeping connected with our kids or elderly parents. Whatever we do, it should be for a purpose.

Think About It

My personal charge is for you to think about it. Think about every decision you make. Think about the little things. Think about the big things. How can each move you make in life lead to your desired goal?

Need help? Lets connect.

Cheers!

Top 34 Advice To Succeed…

Success Strategies

Share your best advice to Succeed…34 others did. None too Shallow

I believe in you
Study the Greats
Never lie to yourself
Be kind
Trust no one
Know Your worth
Breathe. Now keep going
Never Give up
Worry less. Pray more
Overthinking kills happiness
Trust God’s timing
Mind your own business
Do what you want
Change your mindset
Pay it forward
Just go for it
With Faith anything’s possible
Always Push Forward
Let it go!
Pain is temporary
Just do you boo
Always live on purpose
Seize the opportunity
Pay off your debt
Dont settle for less
Be your own boss
Be you! Do you!
It’s gonna be alright
Stay away from negativity
Life Goes on
Never Settle
Work hard. Be Patient
Do it!
Now it’s your turn

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Remote Work. Which Affects You The Most?

Remote Work comes with gains, benefits and challenges. Which affects you the most?

Collaboration and communication
Being in a different time zone
Loneliness
Distractions at home
Staying motivated
Vacation time
Reliable WiFi
Not being able to unplug

Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Work. Work. Work. Social And Remote Changes To Reopen…

Society has changed since the Pandemic and so has work. With the world-wind of changes as society continues to evolve, many are left struggling to catch-up.

So How Do You Survive?

So how do you survive? Here are a few ways that SHRM encouraged organizations to update and/or create policies that address the new norm at work.

If and how the organization will conduct temperature checks, whether it’s done directly, through a third party or by self-reporting.
Cross-training the workforce to accommodate more employee absences.
Social distancing in the workplace.

Essentially, employers should have employees sign policies that address safety at work to lessen the potential spread of the virus at work.

Employers should provide employees with face coverings if they can’t remain at a safe distance from each other or those who travel.

Keep in touch and Communicate with temporarily laid off or furloughed employees. Some suggest providing at least 36-hour notice if calling employees back to work.

Stay tuned. More to come.

Cheers!

1.The First-Time Founder (0-2 years in business)

2.The Side Hustler (Building while Employed)

3.The Struggling Scaler (Stuck at a revenue plateau)

4.The Solopreneur (No co-founder, no team)

5.The Comeback Entrepreneur (Failed before, trying again)

Honorable Mentions:

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Gifts That Shine

High-End Gifts

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Before You Choose

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Interesting Facts

Emerging Trends

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Among Others

The Deal

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Every Move Is For A Purpose

Think About It

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So How Do You Survive?

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