Success…and then what?
As we start our businesses, we are constantly chasing a dream. We work insane hours, sacrifice everything that means anything to us because we know that success is coming. When we finally get it what happens? As I found out that I had been awarded a big contract, a colleague reminded me to not get comfortable with the success, to remember that I was still an entrepreneur and I still needed to be hungry. So now that we’ve found success, here’s what I think we should remember…
We are at our best when we are hungry
Chasing success brings out the best of our survival instincts. We know that we can’t quit, many of us don’t even have that option. Take that hunger with you every day, even when you sign on the dotted line of that contract. You have to remember that the contract is going to end and the reality is that you can never take a break because the minute you do, you kill the hunger.
Surround yourself with people who know you can do more
It’s hard work finding people who have your best interests at heart and will tell you the truth, but you have to find them. Why? Because they will keep you honest about how much effort you are putting into being a success and how much of your goals you are accomplishing. The need to be pushed varies from person to person, but everyone needs a navigator in an adventure. So who’s yours?
It will come when you least expect it
Mine came after two years of rejection and disappointments, when I felt like the hits just kept on coming. One morning I opened my inbox and it was there. We have awarded the contract to SPC. Just like that, no special phone call or e-mail. It was all very matter of fact. It caught me completely off guard, so I had to be prepared. So even when they tell you no at every meeting, when they don’t take your calls and when they don’t return your e-mails be ready. Because today, just could be the best day of your life.
Know that for better or worse, it will be all your fault
Being successful is a lot like being a parent, you work with no respect and little pay until the day someone notices that you are really good at something. The best thing that being an entrepreneur teaches you is that your life really is in your hands. Whether you’re a success or a failure is completely up to you and the choices you make for your company. It’s a good life lesson and great business lesson. You have success, what it turns your company into is up to you.
Business is a rough pool to swim in, but you’re here. You made it through another day to read my blog, so you’re not quitting. If you’re not quitting, you’re hungry. If you’re hungry success is coming and once it finds you, everything else is up to you.
What an inspirational post! My favorite sentence has to be, “The best thing that being an entrepreneur teaches you is that your life really is in your hands.” I think that is the most truthful statement and life lesson that every person must learn. I’m going to print this and tack it to my bulletin board, for those days when we need a bit more of inspiration!
Hi Glenda, What a generous compliment! I like to think that as an entrepreneur myself, I have no advice but I do know what it feels like and I hope that is worth reading.