Growing Your Business as an Introvert
Do you ever feel like being an entrepreneur would be a little easier if you were an extrovert? Things like leading a team, negotiating, engaging with clients/customers and networking certainly wouldn’t seem as daunting. For those who feel more energized spending time alone than with people, the tasks that come with growing a business can feel overwhelming and at times impossible. After all, every business revolves around people in some way. There is hope for us introverted entrepreneurs though, and in fact there may be some advantages. Here are the three things you need to know to grow as an introverted entrepreneur.
1. Know your strengths and use them:
If you find yourself identifying as an introvert, you likely have some of these qualities:
Thoughtful: You think before you act and take into account all the variables before making a decision.
Introspective and self-aware: You have a good understanding of yourself and your desires because you have taken time alone to reflect and discover more of yourself.
Detail oriented: You pay attention to detail and understand that in order to achieve a greater vision you must complete the little steps in between.
Work well one on one: You shy away from large crowds but enjoy the company of a few close friends. You are a good listener and relish the chance for a deep one on one conversation.
You have unique strengths and talents as an introverted individual so don’t be afraid to use them! Do you work well with your hands? Do you have an eye for design? Maybe you love meeting with people one on one. Whatever your strength is grow it. We can sometimes be so obsessed with focusing on our weakness that we forget to build our strength.
“The secret of successful people lies in their ability to discover their strengths and to organize their life so that these strengths can be applied.” — John C. Maxwell
2. Use your time wisely:
Your time is valuable so spend it wisely. As you step into the role of an entrepreneur you will find it is all about balance. Learning when to say yes and when to say no is crucial as a business owner. Make sure you incorporate into your schedule those things that refuel you as an introvert. You cannot be everywhere at once and sometimes there is wisdom in turning down an opportunity. Learn when to ask for help and find partners that make up for the areas in which you lack. Not a salesman? That’s okay. Speaking to large groups not your thing? No problem. Bring other people into your business/life that can leave you to do what you do best. However, there will still be times you have to step outside your comfort zone, which then leads me to my next point.
3. Learn to be uncomfortable:
No matter how you look at it, growing a business can be uncomfortable for anyone. It is best to settle on the idea from the beginning that you are going to face some things that take you out of your comfort zone. Learn to embrace it because you can and certainly will overcome it. Set goals according to your own pace and design a business you will truly be proud of. As long as you are moving forward and feel proud of your progress then it doesn’t matter what others think.
I hope this blog has inspired you to keep going. I understand that growing a business isn’t easy. I’ve been there and at times thought I’d never be on the other side of my goals. Are you ready to be on the other side of your dream? Do you want an objective voice of encouragement to help you navigate the rough waters of starting or growing your business? Let’s chat! Send me a message at courtneygclucas@gmail.com and ask for your free 30 min consultation.