When the stresses of running a small business come together all at once, having the right mindset is the key to overcoming and growing.

Here are our 5 ways to improve your mindset and think like a business person: 

 1. Accept the Challenge

Taking the plunge to go self-employed is a big, exciting decision. Now that you are here, make the most of it.

Challenges can sometimes feel like insurmountable hurdles, particularly if you are working on your own. Each new challenge you face within your business may feel like a test of your skills and experience – but you can face them head on. Remember that your skills, experience, tenacity and passion have got you to where you are today and all of these attributes are armour to take you into battle so that you may overcome whatever challenges you may face.

Flexibility and creativity are key. Accept the challenge – learn from it. Grow with it. Embrace it. Each one could open a new door and teach you something. 

 2. Believe in Yourself

If you don’t believe in yourself and your business, then no one else will either. 

It is vital that you start each day believing in your ability to achieve. Ask yourself whether you are searching for reasons why your ideas won’t succeed instead of figuring out a way to make something good happen.

Successful people are determined to make the situation work for them rather than  searching for reasons why a situation won’t work.

When you truly believe in yourself, you can achieve anything you want. Without this mindset, you will give up when you are faced with any hurdle for fear of not being good enough. And you are good enough. 

 3. Choose Good Company

Find your tribe and know who you energises you, supports you and inspires you. Whether that is your business partner, your employees, a business coach, or your family and friends – who you choose to surround yourself with is key to a positive mindset. To reach the goals you desire, don’t be afraid to turn your back on someone who has a toxic effect on your mindset. Equally, if you surround yourself with like-minded, successful and goal-orientated people, you can learn from them and take on some of their habits to add to your own.

If you are a solo entrepreneur, your working week can be a lonely place. Don’t let it be. Network, talk, reach out and find good company. Inspiration can sometimes be found in unusual places. 

4. Have Vision

You need to create visions (not just goals) as these will drive you towards personal happiness and fulfilment. Vision is your why. Vision gives direction. It’s your desired future. Your vision includes what you believe in (your core values) and what you want in your future (what you want to be). It’s the powerful reason why you want to do something; your overarching purpose. Your vision is your passion and keeps you excited and motivated. 

We constantly talk in the office about where we are heading, what we want for our business and for ourselves because this ensures there is room to grow, develop and create. We have personal vision and share an exciting vision for the future of our business. In this way, the Buy-From team are on a journey together.  

 5. Have a Growth Mindset

All of the above point to one mindset: the growth mindset. The theory is that intelligence can develop, and effort leads to success. A growth mindset thrives on challenge and sees failure as an opportunity to learn, develop and grow. Knowledge can be developed, but it’s up to you to reach for that book, or go to that talk, and learn what it is you need to. So, embrace your challenges, persist in the face of obstacles, make an effort, accept constructive criticism and learn from others. 

Be creative, be responsive, be flexible, be reactive, and don’t be afraid to fail.