Deciding to start a business under any circumstances is a risk, but by yourself? That can seem like you’re asking for trouble. Yet despite the added risk, many people continue to do just that each year – and many of them succeed. So it’s far from being all doom and gloom, and indeed, if you’re doing things by yourself, then you have the opportunity to create a company based entirely on your vision and ideas. There’s a lot to be said for that idea. Still, and as we said, going solo means added risk. If you’re walking alone, then take our tips below. They might just provide the information you need.
The Solo Entrepreneur Myth
First thing’s first: you’re not going to be a solo entrepreneur, in the sense that no-one is. There’s a long list of “individual creative geniuses” who are lauded for walking the path that they alone have created. But while it’s a nice story, it’s rarely the case. Whether it’s financing, talking through ideas, or working with other people (more on that later), you’re going to need the skills of other people sooner rather than later. So get the idea that you’ll be doing everything out of your head.
Believe in What You’re Doing
It’s not easy to succeed in the business world. You’re going to face setbacks, you’ll want to quit, and so on. The most important hurdle you’ll overcome is coming up against these problems, and carrying on with your project. But you’ll only be able to do this if, at your core, you believe in what you’re doing. You need to have a motivation that’s more robust than simply making money. That’ll come, in time. Trust that your company is going to have a positive impact on the world, and you’ll have the fortitude to carry on when the going gets tough.
Bringing In Other People
Unless you’re a master of everything (hint: you’re not), then there’ll be times – most likely, many times – when you need to bring in other people to help you. This can happen in two ways. You can hire an employee, or you can outsource your tasks to another company. In the early days, the latter will probably be better, at least until you know you have a viable, long-term business. You’ll want to work with companies that can provide marketing services, tax and accounting help, and any other repetitive tasks. It’ll free up time and ensure you get access to the best resources, without breaking the bank.
Carry on Learning
You’ll have been ready to get your business up and running, because you knew that you had enough skills to make your company a success. But you don’t know everything. There’s always the space to learn more and more, and as you journey along on your quest to build your company, it’ll be your education that helps you. Seek out mentors, read books, take courses, and all-around improve yourself. There’s no way that you’ll regret it, and it might just help you step up another level.
