A customer came into the shop yesterday and asked the usual questions that we get on a daily basis..."Are you new?", "How long have you been open?" and "How has business been?" I enjoy telling people that we are new and how supportive the community has been and how excited we are to be here! But then she said something that caught me off guard and sort of upset me...she said, "Well, I sure hope you stay in business. Opening a business is kind of a crazy thing to do these days."
At first I was very upset by this comment. She doesn't have any idea what my business is about or how I am doing financially and yet, she assumed we were probably struggling. However, when I thought about it for a while I realized that she was just projecting her own fears on to me. This happens A LOT when you decide to do something big and crazy and scary.
When I was opening my store I had to check in with myself constantly to make sure I wasn't getting down on myself or letting my fears get the best of me. It's a tough thing to keep yourself motivated!
So I thought I would share my tips for staying positive, motivated and facing fears head on!
TOP 5 TIPS
1. Don't Listen To Others
When you make the decision to live your crazy, fantastic, wild dream...EVERYONE is going to have something to say. And unless they have lived your dream before or have done something very similar, then don't take anything anyone says to heart. They haven't been there OR done that so they really can't talk, even if they mean well and just have your best interest at heart.
2. DO Listen To Someone Who Has Done What You're Doing
Find someone who HAS done what you are attempting to do, or at least something similar. They will have advice and words of wisdom that are actually relevant.
3. Make Up An Affirmation
My personal affirmation is, "I believe, I receive." I say this all the time to myself. Whenever I am feeling stressed or overwhelmed, it just helps me remember that I believe in myself and my dream. Make one up or find one that really resonates with you, one that you can really believe in.
4. Read Your Way To Motivation
Read stories, autobiographies, blogs, etc. of inspiring people. It is so motivating to hear how other people have faced their fears and followed their dreams.
5. Fake It 'Till You Make It!
People are going to question your every move and ask tons of questions when you start telling them what your plans are...so act like you know what you're talking about! You're never going to have all the answers but you can fake it until you DO know the answers. Act confident and people will start to believe in you...and probably start to really admire you for being so ballsy.
