Everything you need to know about starting your own business
Munira Rangwala
Tuesday August 22, 2017 , 3 min Read
Most people wish to own and run their own business at some point in their life, but not all are able to do so owing to various constraints and obstacles. Being a budding entrepreneur and starting your own business is like driving through a fog – you don't know what lies ahead until it's finally upon you. However, the longer you've been an entrepreneur, the easier it is to navigate through this fog. Every entrepreneur needs to be careful about avoiding fatal foundational mistakes that can cost him/her their business.
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Keep the following points in mind when starting your own business for the first time:
Don't pay attention to statistics
Every successful entrepreneur will tell you that people love throwing numbers in your face. Some will even say that 95 percent of all businesses fail. But what's the proof behind those numbers? Statistics are just an excuse to make you feel like it is okay to give up. Even if those numbers do have any truth to them, it is because most entrepreneurs don't commit themselves to their business or follow through till the end.
Competition is inevitable
You've probably done your market research before laying the foundation blocks of your business, but you'll understand the real impact of competition only after your business is up and running. If you're not able to secure the market share you thought you would, don't tuck tail and run. Instead, devise tactics to make your products popular with your target audience and turn your business around by reinventing yourself.
You'll learn on the go
You won’t know everything there is to know about your business at the start. In fact, you'll probably know little to nothing. But rest assured, as like any other entrepreneur, you'll learn on the job. For example, if you're into real-estate investing, you might not know how to buy a property or rent a house, but you'll learn the ropes of the trade with each mistake you make.
You won't become rich immediately
Yes, you will have inflow of income, but more often than not, you'll be using that money to re-invest in different parts of your business to keep it running. If you want to see your business actually make profits that you can reap, you'll have to be patient. Your business will become an income-boosting joyride only after a long and hard road.
Your family should always come first
Your wife and kids were with you when you had little, and they will be there with you when you have a lot. Don't take their presence for granted. If anything, always keep their needs ahead of the needs of your business. Remember, all the money in the world won't be any good to you if you don't have a family to share it with.
Entrepreneurship can be a little scary. However, if you pay close attention to your progress, and remember the above-mentioned tips, you'll be able to navigate through the pitfalls with more confidence.
Read Also: Tips To Start A Successful Business