Starting a business can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. Everyone seems to have the “secret sauce,” yet few can agree on the recipe. Today, I’m dishing out 10 essential lessons to help entrepreneurs navigate the stormy seas of startup life with the grace of a surf champion. So, let’s dive in!

Lesson #1: Fail like a Prodigy

I hear the groans, but hear me out. Failure is the sandbox of the business world. Ever watched a toddler stumble and face-plant? They’re not fretting about a messy résumé. They’re racking up experience points. I’ve face-planted more times than I care to admit—like my inaugural bike ride that ended in a spectacularly scuffed chin and a hit to my pride. Remember, if you’re failing, you’re playing the game, and that’s half the win.

Lesson #2: Psychic Salesperson Mind Tricks

Understanding what tickles your customers’ fancy isn’t just smart—it’s your survival kit. This isn’t about cold-reading or mind-games but about getting into the nitty-gritty of your customers’ desires. And no, that doesn’t mean waving reading tools in front of night-clubbers unless it’s “How to Read Cocktails.”

Lesson #3: Start Like You Mean to Continue

If starting a business were easy, everyone would be selling glittery unicorns. Begin with a bang! I’ve launched ventures that fizzled out faster than a soda pop on a hot day. The lesson? Starting with gusto means you’re halfway there, and once that business boulder is rolling, it’s a joyride (with occasional steering).

Lesson #4: Solve Problems Like Sherlock

My days of managing an outpatient clinic taught me that problems are like puzzles, and who doesn’t love a good brain-teaser? Dive in, decode the mysteries, and implement systems. You’ll turn chaos into order and find the admiration in your clients’ eyes to be quite the sweet spot.

Lesson #5: Action Heroes Wanted

Here’s where the capes come on. Entrepreneurs need a bias for action. You’ve got to swoop in, take charge, and keep the momentum going. It’s like parenting a business; if you’re not attentive, it doesn’t soar. So baby that business—lovingly, consistently.

Lesson #6: When to Bow Out Gracefully

Quitting isn’t losing; it’s strategic retreating. My leap from working with global entrepreneur hubs to solo flights was scary but necessary. You’ll feel the moment when it’s time to pivot. Listen to that gut—you’ll know when it’s more “au revoir” than “adieu.”

Lesson #7: The Mighty ‘Why’

If you don’t know why you’re climbing the mountain, the peak seems pretty pointless. My catalyst for leaping into the unknown? Making a dent in the startup universe. Find your “why,” or you’ll find excuses instead.

Lesson #8: Never Stop Being a Student

Keep your brain hungry and your skills buffet always open. Whether it’s absorbing wisdom from a book or taking advice from your own coach (yes, coaches have coaches), stay in learning mode. Think of it as leveling up in the game of Entrepreneurship.

Lesson #9: Brag a Little, Would Ya?

Coming from the mental health field, I initially whispered “I’m a life coach” like it was a secret society. Now, I shout it from the rooftops because, frankly, I’m darn good at it. If you’ve got it, flaunt it—modestly, of course.

Lesson #10: Gratitude is The Attitude

Finally, but not least, count your lucky stars. Gratitude isn’t just for Thanksgiving—it should be as regular as your morning coffee. Scribble a note, say a silent thank you, do a gratitude dance. Being thankful for the ‘now’ propels you to the ‘next.’

If this little entrepreneurship pep-talk resonates with you, take a moment to shoot me your thoughts. Feel like continuing the conversation? Hop onto my email list for a regular dose of tips, tools, and no-nonsense business banter—straight to your inbox.

And remember, the business world may be a wild rollercoaster, but with these lessons, you’ll be riding in the front seat, hands in the air, ready for the loops and swoops!