I have been a digital entrepreneur for many years, operating in my gift zone, coaching, consulting and working virtually. Thus far, I have learned many digital entrepreneurship lessons over the years and I have decided to share some with you. I can’t put all of them here because this blog post will be too long. Stay tuned for the rest of it on the Destiny Chats podcast.
Okay, so let’s get down to the digital entrepreneurship lessons. Experience is the best teacher.
“One thorn of experience is worth a whole wilderness of warning.” – James Russell Lowell
1. Start before you are even ready. Things don’t have to be perfect before you start. Use what you have in your hand. Sometimes we waste too much time trying to make things perfect when all we just need to do is start.
2. Every contract is not from heaven, so know when to say “no” and walk away (fast).
3. Operate with the spirit of excellence. When you put your name out there, be sure to do things properly and deliver great service or products.
4. Network connections are important.
You are one connection away from your biggest deal ever.
5. Charge for your services.
Period. Well, are you running a charity or a business? Put value into what you do and be compensated for your knowledge, skills and expertise.
I learned that “free” isn’t always good for business. At some point, you may offer free product samples or services but do it strategically. When some people get used to receiving free stuff and you offer paid services, they walk away.
There is a time and place for “free” and business requires payment. Allow people to invest in their own elevation and pay for your services, no matter how small the fee. When people pay for something, they tend to appreciate it.
6. Protect your time. It is precious. Don’t allow people to waste your time. When you give some folks an inch, they take a mile. If someone is always late to meetings with you, it means that he or she does not respect your time.
For multifaceted folks like me who juggle career, side business, non-profit interests, family (yes, I am a blessed mom of three children and wife too), it is important to figure out what works for you and manage your time efficiently.
Plan. Plan. Plan.
For example, I write lists of tasks I need to do for the week. Perhaps a daily list may work best for you. You know your situation and you wear the shoes. You will know if they hurt. Make the changes.
7. Pray. I cannot overemphasize it. I have been in situations where I said a quick prayer before meetings and asked God to help me make the right decision, and if the person was going to be problematic to my destiny, He should let them just go away.
Have you ever prayed before a meeting? Try it. You will experience peace. It works for me.
Which lessons can you add in your entrepreneurial journey? Please share in the comments. Are you ready to start your online business? Click here to book a 15 minute consultation with me to discuss your goals.
Belinda is a Global Privacy and Cybersecurity Consultant, Corporate Trainer (leadership, culture, diversity and inclusion, cyber privacy and security awareness), Writer, and International Speaker with a unique blend of law and technology. She is a digital entrepreneur, author, ordained pastor, mentor to women ready to impact their generation and host of Destiny Chats podcast. For consultation, click here and invitation to speak, click here
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