Well, I’ve reached the one-year mark of business ownership, and I can tell you it’s been a challenging yet fulfilling year. I was tested in almost every way a person can be tested. I was forced to confront myself head-on, evaluating my strengths and weaknesses. I have experienced success and failure.  

But most important, I grew.  

I entered 2015 a timid girl traversing the unknown and emerged out the other side a strong, confident and capable individual with the belief that I can do anything if I truly put my heart and soul into it.

 

As I reflect on the year we are about to close, here are a few things I have learned on my journey:

 

 

Sometimes that means reviewing your resume of wins or doing something that brings you joy. Sometimes the only way out of doom and gloom is to allow yourself one solid day to live in it, vowing you will come out the other side rejuvenated and ready to take that storm head-on. If you vow not to quit and push through, you will emerge with a new perspective and a clearer vision on the other side.

 

Often when I am at a low point, I go back to the drawing board and re-evaluate. I always keep a running list of “big ideas” in my notebook. When I feel I’ve hit a roadblock, this list provides some insight into what my real purpose is and reminds me of my long-term vision.  

The key here is to think outside the box and demonstrate your worth in varied ways. As a new business owner, you are constantly trying to prove yourself to your audience. Executing two or three well-done campaigns focused on gaining the attention of your desired customers will not go unnoticed. Be brave, be bold and do whatever you do with clear purpose.  

 

Einstein said it best: “If a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind, of what, then, is an empty desk a sign?”  

As a team of one, the need to wear different hats will result in a cluttered desk. You have to learn to be OK with the clutter. It is easy to get bogged down in ideas, to-do lists and paperwork. There is always something that can be done to push your business forward, but organized chaos is the name of the game. The goal each day is to prioritize the heck out of each to-do list, focusing only on those things that truly align with your end vision. I remind myself I am on the right track. Great things are happening in that mess.

I cannot reiterate enough the importance of the human body’s need to take a break every once in a while. Regaining balance in your life is what allows us to persevere. Allow yourself time to rest and refuel your tank. This is the perfect time to pick up an inspiring book, meet with a willing mentor or simply go for a walk. Take a break to re-evaluate why you entered this venture and be patient with yourself as you get back on track.