Strategies For Overcoming Business Blocks

When I first started my business, I knew it was vital to my success to learn how to quickly remove ‘blocks’ that prevent entrepreneurs from moving forward. Blocked paths, mental stalls, what have you – they were not an option because my family depended on my success – and I was determined to make it happen. 

So when I set out to bulldoze whatever got in my way, I was shocked to find out… the killers of entrepreneurial dreams – aka ‘mental blocks’ – were nothing more than really common problems that could be easily fixed.

Block: Feeling like you have no idea what your next step should be? 

Answer: You don’t have a business plan. 

 

Block: Unsure where your next client is coming from? 

Answer: You’re missing an active marketing plan. 

 

Block: Can’t seem to finish one online course before moving onto the next? 

Answer: You’re letting Shiny Object syndrome take hold (and I’m willing to bet you’re losing a ton of money because of it). 

 

Those are all easy fixes! Scouts honor. If you don’t have a business plan, make one! If you’re not sure where to even begin when it comes to marketing yourself, start by putting together a content calendar. And as for shiny object syndrome? Well, you’re going to have to put your blinders on for that one. Here are a few more blocks that present themselves as really big deals… but in reality? They’re easily torn down, so long you have the right tools:

Missing deadlines: if you’re frequently missing important milestones in a project, I recommend you get project management software ASAP. Keeping yourself accountable with checklists in project management software is a tool for success. Be proactive and find the software you like.

Comparison: “Comparison is the thief of joy” is the sentence of the century—That’s my opinion at least. Here’s the biggest problem with comparison; you never know what’s going on behind the scenes of someone else’s business. If you’re suffering from FOMO, or like you’re missing out on something fundamental, reach out to a mentor and ask for help! Or contact your local Chamber of Commerce to see if they have a mentorship program for emerging entrepreneurs. Just know you have options. 

Tipping the scales: If I could sum up one word or my life right now, it would be BUSY. It’s neither good nor bad, it’s just in constant motion because when I’m not sitting at my computer, I’m homeschooling my kids. And when they’re taking a break from class, I’m taking care of a three-year-old and baby. As a business owner, you’ve got to find balance; otherwise, you’ll burn out quickly. Believe me, when I say, I know all about burnout. 

I’m not going to sugar coat it, getting distracted or blocked while working towards your goals happens to the best of us. It’s just part of doing something completely different from everyone else. If running a business was easy, everyone would do it, right?  

But that’s why you surround yourself with the tools (psst, and people!) who help keep you on track. So when times do get tough, or a situation tries to pull you off your path, you’re able to stay the course. 

If you’re looking for extra help overcoming whatever is stopping you from moving forward, click here. I’ve got all kinds of tools in my professional toolbox, and am more than happy to share.