Web Marketing Therapy

Starting a Business is Similar to Giving Birth!

May 2nd, 2011
by Pamela Sherman

Birthing a business is anything but a special delivery from a flying stork!

All those who’ve done it, who’ve started a business, know it’s true. Although it can be the most rewarding and exciting experience ever, it inherently carries some real “growing-pains” (and no two individuals experience it exactly the same). However, there are some essentials to keep in mind if you’re going forward with launching a new business or a new business product/service line.

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Here are some key points to be aware of in the process:

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The Conception…

(Okay WMT-ers, no jokes here!) —It’s the “CONCEPT”, the “BIG IDEA”. IF viable (which is an important blog topic unto itself), it will have the necessary ingredients to take form, grow and thrive. –It means that all the seeds of a successful business “organ-ization” are present.

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It takes courage + active planning for the idea to begin taking real form. Also, it takes understanding and responsibility in how you shape it’s DNA.

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As WMT believes, the most successful businesses are often derived from a concept naturally and organically developed through passion, interest, and/or a culmination of experience.

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A Full Body Transformation Process –a Gestation Period…

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While a company is in development, many challenges and uncomfortable periods may be experienced. People can experience this differently, based on their particular makeup, as well as the market environment they’re entering. (It can feel like you’re going through a complete metamorphosis)

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An important gestation period exists. Entrepreneurial experts say that it’s the tweaking in those first phases of a business that can make or break a company. The importance of ACTIVE LISTENING and LEARNING as you go are critical. Be aware of your priorities. Define your initial primary business goals and develop your business model to progress in a healthy manner.

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Keep emotionally and mentally strong. Believe in yourself. If you feel your concept/idea is strong (based on experience, research and need), don’t let thoughtless ‘nay-sayers’ dissuade you.

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The Labor of The Launch…

Be strong, calm, assertive and “just do it.” There’s a reason a birth is associated with “LABOR”. –It’s an exercise in physical, mental and emotional strength. You’ll likely experience strain, stress and challenges while facing some fears and even chaos. Calm yourself and allay any counter-productive fears.

So much can be built up around your big “launch date.” This isn’t a time to be hindered by an image of perfectionism; focus on just doing your best. Recognize and draw from the support and beauty around you; trust in the process. Remember, that this process of creating and launching a new business is shared by others. Once you do it, you’ll feel proud (and for good reason!).

Preparing for “Business-Parenthood”…

It can feel like an omni-present responsibility… Even if you hire others, the buck stops with you.

Prepare to be a “GOOD PARENT TO YOUR BUSINESS”.

You will create your business/family culture (consciously or by default). Think of the values you convey, the personality –the “identity” of your business.

Identity and consistency. –What will be your consistent traditions, communication, messages, visuals, etc.? How will you make your business a welcoming, stimulating, inspiring, and happy home that others will want to be apart of?

Your Company’s Life & On-Going Growth…

It takes a village… The people that you surround yourself with are critical for your company’s life and development. Even if you’re a solo-entrepreneur, you can’t do it alone. You’re not an island. You obviously need customers; build relationships with them. You also need advisors who are experts in areas you aren’t to help support, guide and teach you. You will need help and support in places where you can’t (or shouldn’t) be. You need allies, vendors and suppliers. And, of course, if you’re creating a larger operation, you need a good team.

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Unexpected elements and the potential for “magic”… Perhaps what lies in “the miracle of creation” is the unexpected, the x-factor you discover (when 1+1 equals more than 2). It’s that highly unique and special element that can be a little harder to define. Look for that magic spark… It could be a special interest developed with a target market or a particular untapped product/service that’s needed. ”Good Business Parents” CULTIVATE and NURTURE these unique qualities… these opportunities!

Be aware of the limitation of having too much control or too much attachment. As a company grows, it’s very common for many business owners to experience “THE ENTREPRENEURIAL BARRIER.” —It’s the point where many entrepreneurs become unwilling to relinquish their control and essentially stand in the way of their growth. As your business grows, think of your role as a leader and a coach; one who supports and empowers a team (with guidance, encouragement and accountability). As they say, “it takes teamwork to make the dream work.”

Realize that you can’t become 100% attached to all aspects of your business at every stage. Growth is required for your company to mature, to adapt with the environment, to fulfill needs internally and externally.

*Remember, it’s the BIG IDEALS and VALUES you hold (and your company holds) that are most pertinent and dear. —That’s the long-lasting, consistent guiding star you follow; the compass for your company’s journey through life.

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