Reasons to start your business (2)

DECEMBER 4, 2014 BY AGENCY REPORT

   

 

 

Steps towards starting a hotel business
| credits: File copy

Skills

People ask me how I learned about search engine optimisation, social media, pay-per-click, public relations and all the other marketing techniques I utilise. I tell them that I was forced to learn them, otherwise I would not survive. The same way I was forced to learn how to build a spreadsheet, how to balance a budget, how to negotiate leases and countless other skills I picked up because I was the only resource I had. While developing new skills can be tough and takes times, it can pay off in spades. These skills will be invaluable throughout your life.

Determination

Everything I have done as an entrepreneur has affected me in my personal life. I used to be poor at committing to changes. But having been an entrepreneur for over a decade has forced me to become dedicated and determined to causes. (Now I can stick to an exercise plan much easier.) I’m also better at being a father and husband because of that determination I learned.

Recognition

There are literally thousands of local, regional and national awards that recognise entrepreneurs in every field and industry. This shouldn’t be your only reason to start your business, but it certainly is a great feeling when you receive this recognition.

Financial independence

Let’s be honest, this is probably the biggest reason people get into business for themselves. And that is a good thing! You should want financial independence. However you define financial independence – retirement stockpile, unlimited cash potential or having the money to buy what you want – entrepreneurship can allow you to achieve it. Trust me, money doesn’t buy happiness, but it does make finding happiness much easier.

Reinvention

I have started and sold several companies over my career. And every time I sell a company, I am presented with an opportunity to reinvent myself all over again. On the flip side, if I had received my law degree, I would be a lawyer (not a lot of room to recreate myself). But as an entrepreneur, I get to be whatever I want to be.

Change the world

Everyone jokes that every entrepreneur says they’re going to change the world. It’s difficult to imagine how a cell phone accessory kiosk in the mall is going to change the world. But there are those that do succeed. Take a look at Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Sergey Brin, and the countless other entrepreneurs who really have changed the world in some small (or major) way.

Create jobs

There is nothing like the satisfaction of knowing you’re responsible for the success of your employees. Your ideas provided them the opportunity to earn a living, provide for their family and fulfill their own dreams.

Your brand

Being known for something is awfully enjoyable. People may start referring to you as the marketing guy, or the retail maven or the software guru. Whatever it is you’re recognised as, it’s fun to build that brand and earn that recognition.

Your reason

I have given you a list of why I think you should get into business. But all that really matters is your reason to start your own business. So, what is it? Tweet out this story and add your reason. Comment below and share with us why you did it. I know it will be a good one.

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