Is Becoming an Entrepreneur a CEO Fast Track? 

Words Jade Johnson

We are beginning to see a rise in the amount of people starting their own businesses as many begin to recognise the importance of having more than one stream of income. Whether it is as a result of having unfortunately lost your job due to the pandemic or having been put on the government furlough scheme, many of us may have found ourselves with more time on our hands than ever before. Jade Johnson shares with us what it is like to be an entrepreneur.

Shutterstock

There is an entire generation including graduates who have heavily experienced a lack of opportunities being given to them and in turn, have resulted in creating their own. When we think about what comes with being a CEO, we tend to think about making important decisions, having power, success, money. Yes, technically speaking, if you run and operate your own business, you would most likely position yourself as the pinnacle of your own company but how quickly do those desirable characteristics truly take to come along when starting your own business? The reality is that reaching the height of success in your business may take time, and in some cases, more time than you are willing to wait. Be patient but not complacent meaning that yes, good things come to those who wait but great things come to those who put the work in. Make a shift in your environment and strive to make change happen. 

As an entrepreneur you can expect no two days to be the same. You’ll find yourself battling tasks that will most likely be something new and often things you’ll learn to handle whilst on the job - whether it is defining your brand story or collating outstanding invoices and following up with clients. The work doesn’t end, yet. 

Social media is a great tool for marketing, and it is increasingly important to have a digital presence in our world today. We’ve learnt that the world is operating differently, from virtual clothing try-ons to AI fashion shows, and if you want to be a part of this playing field, you have to be more innovative and creative than ever before. All of this is great though, right? Seeing women dominate markets, set trends and smash records is all incredible and when you see these accomplishments it is imperative that you do not let this intimidate or overwhelm you. Instead use this to drive and motivate you. Social media is an open space to receive instant gratification through something as simple as a ‘like’ button and as a result of this we often find ourselves making comparisons. 

Shutterstock

Apps like Instagram provide a platform for users to upload content such as imagery and video for other users to view and share however, how often is it that you would post undesirable images or share a story of a personal or professional struggle? If your answer was never, then you are not alone! We are all, including businesses, more inclined to only showcase the elements of our lives that we want others to see i.e. more likeable content. Be aware that people will only share their story of struggle once they have accumulated a certain amount of success, but it is very rare that you will bear witness to how a business truly starts in real time. You may fall into the presumption that more likes and followers equate to more sales and better business but note that this is not always the case. Trust in your process. Define what success means to you and stay on a path that is yours and only yours. 

Expect to make mistakes but also be willing to learn from them. Be prepared to retain a lot of unsolicited advice but ultimately always do what you think is right for you and your business. Most importantly, don’t get caught up by titles, enjoy the process and keep trying because the rewards are truly amazing.

Jade Johnson - Independent Bridal Consultant