Starting a business is like skydiving for the first time. You hear so many different opinions about it - some say it's liberating, others say it's terrifying, and many will say that you're out of your mind for even considering it.
No matter how much you prepare in the beginning, and no matter how many people you ask for advice, you won't really know how things will go until you jump. It will all happen so fast and then you're plummeting through the air. Your body's shaking, eyes are watering, and your heart is pounding through your ears.
Starting a business can be overwhelming. There's a chance you may begin question your abilities. "Maybe my product isn't good enough." You'll flit through dozens of online articles and shady "free" webinars that tell you "this is the way to sell stuff!"
Perhaps you'll try maintaining multiple social media sites, random giveaways or email services, but nothing works.
Don't get discouraged. Don't be afraid.
My advice to small business owners (and aspiring skydivers) is to focus on one thing at a time. You may want to take in everything at once - the social media, the marketing, the giveaways, the community events - but ultimately, that will hurt you in the end.
You already have enough to consider as a small business owner. Diving into multiple side roles at once is inefficient and will cost you even more in the long run.
This is one of the biggest things I consider when creating plans with small business owners - are my recommendations sustainable? Because even if they're the best plans in the world, they're not going to grow your business.
So take in one beautiful project at a time until it's time to open up your parachute. When your speed slows to a gentle glide, then you can take in that incredible vista all at once.
About the Author: Katria Farmer is a freelance communications consultant in Wilson, NC specializing in copywriting and graphic design. Her B.A. is in communication studies and her M.A. is in strategic communications. She serves Wilson, Rocky Mount, Raleigh, Chapel Hill and surrounding areas. Learn more about working with her: https://www.katriafarmer.com/about