When I first started coaching, I never planned to help people with their businesses. In fact, I denied that I even helped people with their businesses long after I actually WAS helping people with them.
When you live with a born and bred entrepreneur, you learn a lot about business. And, you learn a lot about helping entrepreneurs get out of their own way. Trust me, I’m eight years deep and I’m pretty sure that makes me as qualified as someone with a business degree (maybe slightly more crazy though).
As a result, I’ve found myself working with many business owners. And, since I started working with introverts, it has become very apparent to me that there are a few specific challenges that pop up for those of us who are more introverted.
This is not a definitive list. Not by a long shot (that would take many, many more words), but these are the themes that come up with my clients over and over again. And, to be honest, I’ve dealt with myself from time to time. They say you teach what you most need to learn, so be it.
So, to get started, here are the 5 things stopping you from shining bright in your biz.
1. Overthinking the shit out of everything
Now, I don’t want to claim that this is a uniquely introverted problem. But, I have to say, while I’ve spent three months thinking about a product or service I might want to launch, my extraverted bestie can come up with and idea, run it past me, and have it up and running in the same week.
Actually, ALL my extraverted besties seem to be able to do that.
While I go on still thinking and planning, brainstorming and overanalysing.
But, that’s okay! It also gives you a chance to plan things out, get really clear on whether it’s right for your audience, and put out a really high quality product or service.
You must take action, though. instead of feeling behind because your extraverted pals are out there, be inspired by their ability to leap.
My tip? It is NOT possible to be able to think of every possible scenario. What if you did a trial, got a test group, or launched a beta version of your program?
2. Fear of what others think
This is probably the issue that comes up with pretty much every client I have – especially those very new to business, or just about to launch.
The truth is, when you’re brand new, not that many people have eyes on you yet. It’s the PERFECT opportunity to test the waters, try some things, tweak your message, get used to getting it wrong sometimes (scary, I know, but – once again – vital to this life).
You can’t be everything to everybody, so instead of being afraid of what others think, try to change your mindset to being excited about what YOUR people can gain from your knowledge, your message, and your ability to inspire.
And, if your fear is a little closer to home (friends, relatives, work buddies) please remember this: those who truly love you will be excited for you and supportive. If they’re not, it’s actually not about you at all.
My tip? This isn’t always easy to accept, but try to stop asking ‘What do people think of me?’ and instead focus on ‘How can I be of service?’ and see the mindset shift that accompanies that.
3. Despising self promotion
Ohhh self promotion, how much us introverted souls dislike this concept. But, especially in a solo-style biz, you definitely need to get past this, my friend.
Either that or your business ain’t gonna make it (sorry for the brutal honesty there).
Unless you have an already-established network, your biz is going to need you to promote it. Simple as that.
My tip? Accepting this fact is the first step to overcoming it, now isn’t that a refreshing notion? You are passionate and excited about what you do, why wouldn’t you want to share it with the world? Find ways to put yourself out there that feel good to you and don’t stop until you get there.
4. Struggling to be heard
These days, the Internet is NOISY. In the past week or so I’ve been watching two membership-style fitness pass businesses compete for my attention on Facebook via a range of different offers. And don’t even get me started on the business coaches, masterminds, and courses I HAVE to take in order to make it through 2016 and stay in business.
Phew, I’m exhausted and it’s we’re only 12 days into the year #introvertlife.
Introverts I work with often ask, how can I be seen or heard when there is SO much competition out there? This thought can overwhelm them and, I remember, when I was first starting out, being overcome with this feeling.
My tip? My partner gave me the BEST analogy when I was first starting out: look at all the cafes that clump together in the various suburbs of Sydney. They’re all selling the same thing, but they are all thriving by being close together. They attract different people, they have a different look or feel, and they have as much chance of being seen and heard as anyone else.
You do too. When you’re clear with your message and you stand confidently in that, you WILL be seen and heard.
5. Thinking you have to do it like everyone else
The best example I have for this is from the wonderful PR maven, Selena Soo. She is a fellow introvert and found her own way to build her profile – not in a loud and showy way – but by being of really good service to some key players (I’m talking the likes of Marie Forleo and Danielle LaPorte).
I’m sure we can all agree that PR would be a pretty cutthroat, extravert-dominated industry, yes? Well, she has proven that you can find your own way to do it by honouring your personality traits or your key strengths.
My tip? Look at what others in your industry are doing, what can you do differently? Can you zig while everyone else is zagging? Can you find a way to connect with your audience that works for you?
Remember, when you’re looking at what everyone in your industry is doing, you’re not paying attention to what your audience needs. And THAT is the most important thing here.
Which of these have you struggled with at some point in your business? Are there other challenges that you face as an introverted business owner that I’ve missed here? Leave a comment below and let me know!
Also, this Wednesday the 13th of January, I’m hosting a FREE webinar on how to shine bright in your biz. I’ll be going into more depth on how you can really find your own way to shine as an introvert in your business. It’s going to be a good one!
Pop your details in the box below to join us!
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