# Lessons Learned: 5 Business Mistakes and What I'd Change Now
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Chapter 1: The Challenge of Starting a Business
Embarking on an entrepreneurial journey is significantly more challenging than I anticipated back in 2018, when I first contemplated taking the plunge. The mere idea of vocalizing my aspirations felt daunting. However, by 2019, life circumstances propelled me towards pursuing my dream, and by 2021, I realized it was now or never. Reflecting on my journey, I've identified five key missteps and how I would rectify them if I had the chance to start fresh.
Section 1.1: Emotional Decision-Making
A successful business should ideally operate independently of its owner’s emotions. Nevertheless, I found myself making decisions heavily influenced by my feelings. From managing social media to financial choices, I often let fear dictate my actions. This was a costly mistake, as it not only drained my finances but also wasted precious time. I learned the hard way that a robust business hinges on strategic thinking and systematic processes, leaving little room for emotional responses.
Section 1.2: Lack of Clarity from the Beginning
When inspired by a content creator, it's easy to fall into the trap of replicating their success without understanding the nuances. While they may share valuable insights, the path they took to achieve their goals can differ significantly from what is applicable today. I eventually recognized that establishing clear habits and routines was essential for clarity in my business. By simplifying my calendar and focusing only on daily variations, I gained better control over my time.
Subsection 1.2.1: The Importance of Systems
Although I studied business and systems development, I neglected to implement structured systems from the outset. I was well-versed in creating websites and utilizing tools, but it took me too long to establish effective processes. Had I prioritized building foundational systems early on—particularly for marketing and sales—I would have accelerated my business's sustainability and revenue generation.
Chapter 2: Working Smart, Not Hard
In this video, "10 Mistakes I've Made As A Small Business Owner (Don't Do These)," the creator shares critical insights into common pitfalls entrepreneurs face and how to avoid them.
Section 2.1: Focusing on the Wrong Priorities
While following someone else's business model might seem helpful, it can lead to a misallocation of time and resources, especially for those without substantial funds for courses or coaching. I ended up juggling an overwhelming number of tasks, often trying to implement strategies meant for larger companies, despite not having employees or plans to hire. If I were to start over, I would concentrate on my vision and the essentials—sales, marketing, product development, and basic financial management.
In "The 5 Biggest Mistakes I Made When I Started My Business," the speaker discusses critical lessons learned through their entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of prioritization.
Section 2.2: Leveraging Knowledge for Action
As someone who has followed various content creators over the years, I was inspired by Amy Landino to kickstart my business. However, translating theoretical knowledge into practical application proved to be a challenge. Understanding the components of a successful business is different from knowing where to begin. If starting anew, I would pinpoint the essential habits that drive growth, such as consistently creating content and developing multiple income streams. Engaging with others online is also crucial, as building a supportive network is fundamental to success.
Final Thoughts
With experience comes wisdom. While I cannot reclaim the time lost to my early mistakes, I remain determined to adapt and grow. The lessons learned from my past will guide my future endeavors. Whether you choose to learn from my experiences or forge your own path, I hope you find value in these reflections.