The five excuses people use to talk themselves out of launching a business
And how to make sure you don’t fall for them.
WHAT’S STOPPING YOU from becoming an entrepreneur? These five common excuses are the barriers budding business people often battle with before taking a leap into a new, life-changing venture.
They can appear insurmountable but with the right mindset these hurdles can shudder to the ground and reveal an exciting path ahead.
Carl Jung said, “You are what you do. Not what you say you’ll do.” What will you do to become an entrepreneur?
If you are making any or all of these five excuses, here’s how to conquer them:
1. My family is not supportive; it’s not a good time
There’s no doubt a strong network of support boosts morale and choosing to become self-employed has a significant impact on those nearest to you.
However, careful due diligence and planning can mitigate the biggest risks, and when an individual takes responsibility for their actions remarkable things can happen.
In fact, harnessing the doubt of those nearest to you can be a greatest source of motivation and drive you on to success.
2. I want to be self-employed… but need the security of a paycheque
All entrepreneurial endeavours carry an amount of risk, and the thought of suddenly losing a regular pay cheque is what keeps many brilliant business people wedded to a traditional job.
Choosing to be self-employed involves an agreement with yourself to replace your regular income via other means.
It’s a risk, but believing in your abilities and proving yourself right is a rewarding, transformational experience. The strength of that belief can only be tested in the field – take the leap and deliver.
3. I don’t have the financial resources available
No one wise draws conclusions based on hunches and presumptions. It only leads to missed opportunities in business and life.
What are you presuming anyway? Loans and funds are options available to you, and the initial investment to start a business may not be as significant as you think.
So before you conclude you don’t have the financial resources necessary, research your options thoroughly.
4. I want to be an entrepreneur but I don’t know which direction to take
If this is your barrier, you’ve already overcome so many, why stop now?
Making the decision to be an entrepreneur means you’re aware of the risk, financial requirements and support required. Now it’s time to act.
Franchise brokers and advisors are a great source of information and inspiration. They’ll be able to shine a light on the realities of various industries.
5. I’m just too busy to move forward
Being busy is a choice. When we truly want something, we make time. If this excuse keeps creeping onto your radar, ask yourself what are you saying no to?
If you’re unsure what the next step should be, make a list of all the possible things you could do to move forward. You’ll soon see the next step you need to take.
Pablo Picasso said, “Action is the foundational key to all success.” Don’t let these five excuses stop your business journey before it has even begun.
Paul Teahan is the master franchisor for The Interface Financial Group Ireland.
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