We’ve taken some time to look at getting ourselves set up for having an amazing 2018. We’ve looked at goal setting, systems and habits, productivity, and tracking our results.
In fact, you have the ground work and systems in place now, to achieve everything you want to achieve.
But (yup… you know it.)
But, let’s be honest here, going it alone can be really tough.
It can be a hard and lonely journey being in business.
To-do lists get overwheling
Self-doubt is a bitch to deal with
Client problems crop up, even with the best systems and processes in place
But sometimes people just don’t seem to understand what you are going through.
“Normal people”… those with 9 – 5 jobs, might be well meaning, but don’t always understand what you are thinking and feeling.
It can be really isolating.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Being in business for yourself, doesn’t have to be by yourself.
Build your support network
Your support network is the one thing that is going to carry you through the tough times.
I’ve seen if called a support circle too, but I find that rather than one circle, the people who get me through the shitty times, are a small network of people scattered all over the place. Some friends, some business partners, some masterminds.
Rather than feeling like I have to have one set circle of people, I draw support from a range of sources and groups.
You see, even with clear goals, super smart systems and habits, and making the most of our time, we all have rough days. It is a fact of life.
And you need people to turn to when times get tough.
Think about people in the following groups and if they are supporting you in a way that is helpful for your growth.
I know it’s hard, but don’t be afraid to limit time spent with those who are negative and pull you down.
This is your support network and you need to be selective about who your cheerleaders are.
Family
If you are lucky enough to have a family who is supportive of you business goals, and understanding of your commitments, then make the most of them.
However, if you find that your family really doesn’t “get” what you are trying to do, don’t get disheartened. You can build a support network outside of your immediate family that will help you through.
Friends
Are your friends supportive of your business goals? Do they understand what you are trying to do?
Do they refresh you or revive you?
Or do they bring you down?
Long term friendships are a hard one to handle sometimes.
You’ve been friends for forever, but whenever you hang out they spend all their time bitching about their job and their life…
I’m all for a little between friends venting and whinging, BUT, make sure it is balanced with fun, laughs and the emotional support that you need from your friendship circle.
Business Connections
Do you have a business bestie? Someone else who is building their business too, and can really help push you forward?
Business connections can be a great part of your support network, especially if they share similar target markets and understand the issues you are facing.
Having said that, someone from outside your industry can often provide a fresh set of eyes, and insight that you might never have seen, simply because they have a different point of view.
A Mastermind group
Business connections are all well and good, but sometimes are only surface deep. Everyone is trying to put on a positive face, and a professional front.
Which is where a close knit mastermind can come in. A small mastermind group allows you to let your dirty washing air. You can be open and honest about your progress, and get support from other business owners who are going through the same thing as you are.
If you don’t have a mastermind group – come and check out the Get Real Business Academy. We’d love to have you in ours.
A Coach or One on one support
Sometimes, you just need a little more hand holding.
A coach, or someone who works with you one on one can give you a gentle kick up the ass and a push in the right direction when you are really down.
Who is a part of your support network?
If you really want to make the most of the year ahead, then make sure you surround yourself with the right people.
This isn’t about being positive all of the time, as I don’t think that is humanly possible. A good vent or whinge can be really helpful sometimes, as long as you move on from it.
This is about surrounding yourself with people who get you. People who push you. People who want the best for you.
And people who are completely supportive of your business goals.
Make sure your support network is actually supportive.