Small business plate spinning needn't mean broken plates
Small business plate spinning needn't mean broken plates
According to various experts, running a small business often involves a multitude of responsibilities that can feel overwhelming. However, it's essential to adopt a strategic approach to manage these tasks efficiently, ensuring that the business thrives without leading to stress or burnout.
Having started my own business a few years ago, I quickly encountered the challenge of keeping all the plates spinning. I found myself juggling multiple roles—consultant, trainer, administrative clerk, head of sales, and marketing guru—making it a daunting task to ensure everything was running smoothly.
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With little to no budget for personal development, I struggled to delegate tasks to others, often leading me to handle roles I wasn't proficient in, ultimately straying from my initial passion for which I established my business.
Skybrook Consultants managed to survive, and remarkably, I have expanded my offerings from their original IT foundations to include personal coaching, mindset development, and mental resilience training. However, the initial success stemmed largely from hard work, effort (some misplaced), and numerous mistakes. At times, sheer willpower was my only driving force.
Through this journey, several truths emerged that have shaped my approach to business:
1. It isn't possible to know everything.
Running your own company doesn't just mean doing what you love; it encompasses all the varied tasks necessary to keep the business afloat. It's the constant spinning of plates that can be overwhelming. One may excel in numerical skills and feel confident managing finances, but what about creating a website or setting up automated systems?
2. It's not possible to be good at everything.
You may possess skills to manage all roles, but proficiency may not be equal across the board. Enthusiasm, time constraints, and urgency can impact the attention you give to different responsibilities. If sales are the revenue source, that's where focus must be directed even if web design is more appealing.
3. Fear causes procrastination.
Sales are a vital component of running a business, yet very few small business owners identify as salespeople. Despite promoting ourselves and our offerings, many—including myself—avoid proactive sales efforts out of fear.
I readily confess that my fear of sales once held me back. Instead of addressing it, I found myself engaging in anything but sales—sometimes even trivial chores took precedence over reaching out to potential clients.
4. Procrastination stops achievement.
Ironically, I had to learn that procrastinating on crucial tasks could lead to a false sense of achievement, with growth occurring organically but not necessarily in a way that directly contributed to my goals. Awakening from this procrastination revealed a clearer path to productivity.
5. Working alone can be debilitating.
Even the most independent individuals need interaction. Humans are social beings; having someone to discuss challenges with can propel solutions faster. Sharing successes is equally important.
A mentor of mine once advised me to work ON my business, not IN it—a balanced approach that emphasizes strategic growth and collaboration. While involving others can be a cost challenge, it also boosts capability.
To address my challenges, I embraced two vital strategies:
a) I delegated.
I reviewed tasks I resisted, then found a highly capable person willing to take them on with enthusiasm and efficiency. Engaging a virtual assistant allowed me to concentrate on work I loved and generated revenue to support their services.
b) I faced my fears.
Understanding my irrational fear of sales was crucial. Instead of battling it head-on, I engaged in support groups, set achievable goals, and sought coaching from someone I trusted. This multi-faceted approach helped me confront my fears, not only in sales but as a whole.
While I still navigate a busy schedule, I've learned to discern which plates only I can spin, questioning the motives behind my responsibilities. More importantly, I've developed a strong support network, alleviating feelings of isolation during challenging times and celebrating successes together.
'WHOOP, WHOOP'.
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With a wealth of experience from reputable companies like Vodafone, BBC, HP, and Zenith Leasedrive, I leverage this background in training and coaching through Skybrook Consultants. I am also enthusiastic about my new venture, Business Bites, alongside Hannah Liversidge, providing affordable business support through themed workshops in Berkshire.
My focus has always been motivating others and annihilating limiting beliefs to elevate personal and business performance. Beyond work, I relish walking, playing golf, and exploring new destinations, even if the travel ratio isn’t ideal.
For more about Business Bites and upcoming workshops, or how I can assist through my coaching, please feel free to reach out.
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