About 10 years ago, when I was rebranding my life and business, I wanted to be as perfect as possible – to what my vision of perfect looked like. I studied with the most popular mindset and marketing gurus, followed every competitor in my industry, subscribed to hundreds of newsletters and ultimately, felt that I was always underperforming. Not growing fast enough. Not living the dream as I should be.
It didn’t take long to realize that perfect for them, didn’t mean perfect for me. Everyone has a different dream, way they want to live their life, income goal, bandwith, and let’s not forget, lifestyle vision. Freedom. Travel. Working remotely or not. Visiting family and friends. Store front or virtual. And the list goes on.
Here are 5 Marketing Lessons I learned as a Recovering Perfectionist
- No matter what anyone tells you – you’re good enough. In fact, you’re probably great, so own it. Don’t believe the negative chatter from others or yourself. Each of us was born with amazing talents. It’s about taking that to market. There isn’t one person who jumped to the top and skipped the learning process. Capitalize on your strengths, not your weaknesses.
- Stop obsessing about your brand. Get yourself out there the best way you can, given your time, resources and ability – but don’t be a fanatic. Building a brand isn’t an overnight sensation, it’s a journey. Plus, there are so many free publicity opportunities! Make it a priority to work ON your business, not just IN your business. Both count.
- Listen to your gut. There are countless programs, strategies and tools to grow your business, but chances are, you don’t have unlimited funds. Spend money after a mindful assessment of what’s most important to help you achieve your goals. Take on too much and you may run yourself ragged, resent your business or end up broke. Have an icky feeling? Listen to it. Your gut doesn’t lie.
- Risk not being ready for an opportunity of a lifetime. Learn to say yes if there’s a knock at your door that may get you closer to your goal. If you’re a believer that all things are connected, and you’re open to connecting the dots, take a chance at what may seem like a random opportunity. You don’t have to act immediately. Just listen. Could it work? What might it look like?
- Make time for fun. All work and no play makes you bored and boring. Make it a point to schedule in some fun activities, even if you’re feeling cash strapped. Sure, you can take a vacation listed on Travelzoo or Gate1 travel (a couple of my favorite travel sites), but just as easily you can go out for $1.00 oysters, a hike, wine tasting, or plan a reunion with friends. You’re in charge of the good times and bad. What’s it going to be?
As always, Dead On! This newsletter, especially, is resonating with me right now, as I’m reassessing where I want to take my business and what I want from my life. Thank you.
Rita, I hear you! I’ve been a recovering perfectionist for some time — and it can be painful. It’s important to take time to consider what you really want for your life and your business. When you also stop tolerating things, and remove them one by one, your life (and head) become clearer. Remember too, that you evolve as a business owner — so what worked for you 5 years ago, may not be on target today. Stay true to who you are, and you’ll find the right mix to showcase your talents.