Women Entrepreneurs...Support...Directions & Me
Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 11:00PM Which way do I go?
Directions… Something guys shy away from, but yet simple instructions can provide much comfort. What I have learned from coaching many women entrepreneurs is that seeking advice and support is essential to success.
Recent research as reported by The Women’s Business Council has shown that successful women focus on building relationships, are more likely to request and rely upon support, and place personal values above business practices.
My essential success strategy:
Build a Trusted Team of Confidantes, Coaches, and Advisors.
My inner circle consists of my business coach, my legal and financial advisor, and four close friends. All serve as confidantes and advisors for my life and businesses. Some are compensated financially; others are not. What’s common to this group is that they want the best for me, are unconditionally constructive, and will tell me the truth in a way that supports me.
The next group is really more of an informal group and consists of several coaches, advisors, consultants, mentors, and teachers. I continually look for people that can assist me in growing and strengthening particular aspects of my business.
Another resource that can be very valuable and affordable at the same time is to participate in a gender specific group. Women do this very well and the groups are much more readily available. I had the good fortune recently to participate in a men's group and found it to be powerful and transformative.
Take your time and look for those with whom you share common values and can trust. Remember, you are your most important asset. Invest in yourself by surrounding yourself with talented people to support and advise you. You’re worth it!
Back to Directions…
Here are three simple strategies that will propel you in the right direction:
1. Be up to something bigger than yourself - It's not about you, it's the difference you make in peoples' lives.
2. Take great care of yourself - Support is just one way. We'll explore others in subsequent posts.
3. Clear the clutter - You're not going anywhere if you have a lot of stuff dragging you down and holding you back.