I started my business during the 2008-2009 recession as a single mom living in rural West Tennessee – passionate about coaching and developing leaders and leadership teams.
People warned against it. They said the idea wouldn’t work. They said the market, especially the local market, wasn’t ready for what I wanted to offer.
I even had one person tell me I just needed to go “get a job” and give up on the idea of starting a business.
Were they right?
Well, it was hard work. There were lots of twists and turns and unexpected things that happened along the way.. But those that cautioned against it DIDN’T make the right call.
The idea DID work! There WAS a market-ready and eager for what I was offering. I started something new during a time of disruption…and I’m SO grateful I did!
13 years later, we have partnered with and served the most amazing clients, leaders and leadership teams, not only in rural West Tennessee but across the US and even globally. The work we have done together with our clients has not only impacted their business but their personal lives as well.
Today, we are ALL in a time of disruption. But that doesn’t mean we have to push “pause” on our dreams…or listen to the people who say our idea won’t work.
Since the only certainty in life will be uncertainty, and the only thing that won’t change is the permanent presence of change, here are some tips for leading yourself well in times of disruption:
#1 Give yourself permission to dream in spite of the circumstances.
The right time is NOW. If you have a dream you want to pursue, you don’t have to wait until it’s the “perfect” timing. It’s never going to look perfect; it’s just a matter of starting. Of going for it. Of putting forth the effort, even if it’s slow forward movement, it’s still forward. Just take the first step.
#2 Take the time to know and revisit your “why.”
—Why do you want to do it? What will the impact be if you’re successful? Why is your vision, your dream, more important than the resistance you’re facing? Whatever your answer to these questions, keep that at the forefront of your mind—and your heart.
#3 Don’t think you have all the answers.
Tap into the many people and resources around you for ideas and inspiration. Don’t go it alone. You’re not alone. Find the people who AREN’T the naysayers. Find the people who are the YAY-SAYERS! The ones who ask “Why not?” of your dream, rather than challenging you with “Why?”
#4 Pray and choose faith over fear.
In the midst of challenges, we often play small because we’re fearful. Because it’s risky. But it’s in seasons of change that great ideas are often birthed. Pray, have faith and be diligent. Face the fear – those you will serve will benefit from it…and so will you!
#5 Believe the best is yet to come.
I’m exhibit A—even in the midst of what felt to me like overwhelming odds, the best WAS yet to come. And it is for you too!