3 Big mistakes solo-entrepreneurs make when defining their business vision

Did you start your own business because you wanted freedom? More fulfilment? Have a higher income?

You probably had a good idea of what you wanted, right? But how clear is your vision truly? Did you take time to actually clarify your vision, mission and purpose?

For instance: What type of business do you want to have/build? How much do you actually want to make? What life would you like to live and how? And how is your business going to support this life you envision?

I noticed in the past few years talking to a bunch of entrepreneurs that only a few of them had defined their (entrepreneurial) vision.

This brings me to the first mistake.

Mistake # 1. Not having a (clear) vision

Having worked as a Strategy consultant, not having a vision for your business, really is a no-no in my opinion :) (which, of course, is also why I can't wait to help business owners clarify it!). Because, well, that is what business strategy is about in the end: creating a strategy, a plan, to reach your short term and longer term/bigger goals (ambitions, vision, Big Hairy Audacious Goal). When working with clients, it is the first question I always ask, because if you don't know where you're going or where you want to end up, how would you know what action to take?

Not having a vision or a vaguely defined one is like running while trying to get somewhere, but without knowing whereto exactly. You might be running the wrong way!

Mistake # 2. Not taking your personal vision into account

Another mistake I see entrepreneurs making, is that they don't take into account their personal or life vision. As entrepreneurs our business and personal life can hardly be separated and so it would be a mistake to only look at your business goals. I believe that in the end your business is an enabler of your personal vision and goals.

For instance, do you want to be location independent so that you can travel? Then you might need to set up your business in a different way than someone who is building a brick and mortar business. Do you want to work less to spend more time with your family? Then you might consider a strategy that helps you free yourself from your business and to outsource, delegate and automate activities.

As a solo entrepreneur you cannot create a business vision without taking your personal vision into account. That's why I like to refer to having an entrepreneurial vision, which makes sure that your business vision and personal vision are aligned.

Mistake # 3. Letting others define your vision and mission

Starting your business can be a huge leap. Maybe you are leaving a secure job. Perhaps you are trying out something completely new. Either way, the journey of entrepreneurship comes with a lot of ups and downs. It is new, probably even scary and it will boost or shake up your confidence at various points in time.

Especially in the beginning of this journey, you might get unsolicited advice from friends and family and other people around you, who all have a well-intended opinion about what you should or should not do. Such opinions, although often not backed by any research, influence your decision making ('no, I would not do that...'), your confidence ('I don't think it is something for you...'), and actions you do or don't take.

Sooner or later you realise that you are 'adjusting' your vision and mission to others. So question: is your vision truly yours? Are you working on your own dream business or someone else's?

Don't make these mistakes!

Please admit to yourself what you want to achieve, allow yourself to want it (yes, you can have it, no, you are not greedy). A clear vision, mission, purpose and values will boost your motivation, inspire you to take action and helps in defining the right strategies to realise your (dream) business. Once, you see an actionable strategic plan in front of you, you may actually start believing you can realise it too!

It is time to take (back) charge of what it is YOU want and the business YOU want to have.

Let's make it happen!

Cheers,

Business strategist and coach for entrepreneurs | Founder and owner of ZJ Means Business.

I help entrepreneurs reach their business ambitions and goals by helping them create actionable and manageable strategies. If you are curious to know if and how I can help you, send me a message or use this link to book your free call. Let’s discuss your challenges and who knows..you might be reaching your goals sooner than you think! :)

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Categories: : Business Freedom, Business Growth, Business Owner, Entrepreneurship