You’re Not Going to Be Everyone’s Cup of Tea, and That’s OK

Or, as I often say “everyone has their own flavor of crazy, and you’ve got to find the ones you like!”

Being an entrepreneur can feel lonely. The physical isolation brought on by the global pandemic hasn’t made it any easier. But being a leader – whether formally or informally, for an entire company or your individual destiny – comes with a lot of perks.

You can set your own schedule. You can decide which customers to ‘hire’ and occasionally… which to ‘fire’ or never bring on in the first place. You can try new things – like FaceBook live (harder than it looks!), BombBomb video emails (love them!), videos and graphics that may be ‘outside’ your typical brand, really personalized messages or broad ones, social media campaigns, partnerships with 3rd parties or bringing work back in-house. You can work as much or as little as you want (and as your expenses allow). You can collaborate openly, stay more insular or operate anywhere in between.

Your inner drive is truly your only limit.

As I reflect on my 10+ years in manufacturing, I realize that’s just how I’m wired. To drive, to push forward, to learn, grow and adapt. And if you’re reading this article, I bet you are too! Sometimes people get threatened by people like us. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming or even pointless to keep moving ahead and innovating. But, I promise you it’s worth it.

Everyone’s different, but maybe some of these ideas will help you in your own journey when you’re feeling stuck or misunderstood.

• Be authentic. I use the “is it kind, is it true, is it necessary” lens – but I always communicate what I feel compelled to, even when it’s hard.
• Assume good intent. People are stressed out and even people that look like they have it all together have things going on that we have no idea about. Instead of making negative assumptions, try coming from a place of grace and compassion.
• Take control. Not of others, but of yourself. Remove the distracting apps from your phone. Use a time tracking tool, even if it’s just pen and paper. Set boundaries and stick to them. Tell others what your intentions are and be receptive to their feedback when you’re not following through.
• Stretch yourself. Read an article from an opposing point of view. Try drawing your pet or making a collage. Ask your kids / younger relatives for the last three songs they listened to – and check them out yourself. Scroll through your contact list and ask for a 30 minute call / Zoom with someone you haven’t spoken to for a few months.

I would love to hear your questions and suggestions. What works for you? What did I miss?

And, as always, I’m only a phone call or email away!

Best,

Stacey