Don't Let Your Fear of Starting a Business Stop You

Do you remember when you first became a mom? I remember it like it was yesterday. I had so many fears. I was afraid that I wouldn't be a good mom. I was worried that my kids would get hurt. Sometimes I'm afraid I will say the wrong thing when we have an important conversation.

It's normal to worry when you embark on something new, and starting a business is no different. Fear of starting a business is entirely normal. As a business owner, I am constantly pushing myself outside my comfort zone to grow and make a more significant impact. With that said, it's also incredibly rewarding to see the business that I've built.

When I talk to those who are interested in starting their own business, but they can't seem to take the plunge, I find that it's often self-belief that is holding them back. If you suffer from a lack of self-belief, all hope is not lost!

Overcome your fear of starting a business with the following tips:

Set a Goal and Create a Plan

The mere act of setting a goal (or a few) can instantly help you feel more confident. Even if you doubt your capability to achieve the goal, just having something to work towards will give you confidence.

Setting small, attainable goals and achieving them can be especially powerful. Your success becomes proof for yourself that you can do this.

Once you set your goal, write down a plan for how you will reach that goal. Get specific. It will help you to visualize yourself as a successful businesswoman. 

Keep Track of Your Wins

Tracking my wins is a strategy that I relied on quite a bit when I first started my business. My first business coach recommended that I make a  list of all of my accomplishments and my education to remind myself of what I already achieved. It gave me confidence that I could grow a successful business. The same can work for you.

Take some time to write down a list of your "wins." These can be successes you've had in your life, relationships that matter to you, and anything else you're grateful for. Anytime you feel like you can't do it, read the list to remind yourself that you can.

Surround yourself with those who believe in you

We are often our own worst critics. Take some time to reach out to people you trust and ask them what they think your strengths are. You might be surprised by what you hear. For me, my mom and my husband are my biggest cheerleaders and have been every step of the way. I'm not sure that I would've stuck it out without their support.

If you work with clients, read their testimonials and reviews to give yourself a confidence boost. I maintain a file of positive feedback from my clients that keeps me motivated.

Commit to Personal Development

If you feel like a lack of knowledge is stopping you, then take the time to learn what you need to learn. Competence breeds confidence. If you lack self-belief, one of the best things you can do is commit to lifelong learning. The more you know about a subject, the more confident you will be in your abilities.

Focus On Your Strengths

Stop beating yourself up over what you lack. Spoiler alert: Nobody is good at everything. Instead of worrying about the things you can't do well, focus on the things you can do well. As a business owner, you can (and probably should) outsource the tasks that you aren't good at.

Spend time with other successful business owners

Being around other successful businesswomen is inspiring. It's a reason that I belong to NAWBO (the National Association of Women Business Owners). Not only that, those who are further along in their business can be really helpful in problem-solving.

Just remember that one of the worst things you can do is compare your circumstances to others. Remember, there is no race, and you don't have to compete with anyone. 

Take Care of Yourself

If you lack self-belief, don't let that hold you back from taking care of yourself. Commit to eating right and exercising. You will naturally feel more confident if you are actively working towards a healthier lifestyle.

Visualize Yourself as a Confident Business Owner

Even if you don't feel confident, try to fake it sometimes. Take time each morning (or night) to visualize what you would be like with limitless self-belief. Don't be afraid to think big either. Imagine yourself with everything you want – including a new confident attitude.

I'm not going to say that starting a business is easy, but if you have the desire, it is possible. You just need the right mindset, and all of these tips will help you with that. 

Other posts from our series on facing financial fears:

3 Tips for Overcoming Money Fears

How to Talk to Your Spouse About Money Problems

Afraid Money is Destroying Your Friendship? Here are 10 Do's & Don'ts

Facing Your Fear: How to Ask for a Raise When You're Underpaid

Face Your Fear: How to Start a Blog and Make Money