As a Network Marketer, it's all too easy to fall into the trap of making excuses for not achieving what we truly desire. We often find ourselves pointing fingers at external factors;
"No-one round here has any money"
"I’ve asked everyone and they are not interested"
or
"I joined at the wrong time"
However, these excuses can hold us back from realising our full potential.
Excuses can be like a comfortable blanket that shields us from taking responsibility for our actions. Phrases like "No one's interested in joining right now" or "Everyone's too busy with other things" might sound convincing, but they're actually barriers we set for ourselves. It's essential to recognise that these excuses stem from fear; fear of change, fear of failure, or fear of stepping outside our comfort zones.
To break free from the grasp of excuses, it's time to adopt a proactive mindset. Instead of letting circumstances dictate your business journey, evaluate your "circles of concern" and "circles of influence."
(Check out this Circle of Influence video from FranklinCovey’s All Access Pass®)
The goal is to expand your influence over various aspects of your business.
For instance, imagine a scenario where a warehouse mix-up delays a customer's order. Rather than getting angry, messaging your customers and blaming the warehouse, take proactive steps. Reach out to your customers, explain the issue, and offer solutions such as alternative products or added value. This not only shows dedication but also deepens customer loyalty.
When your team appears unmotivated or are ignoring you, it's tempting to use the excuse that "nobody's working." Instead of falling into this mindset, focus on improving your onboarding approach. Clearly communicate things like ‘this business takes time, not money’. Provide guidance on setting up an online presence, from creating a website and business social media pages to using platforms like Instagram and TikTok. But again, ensure they realise this will not guarantee success. So, continue to educate your team on the importance of daily visibility, authentic online connections, and relationship-building strategies.
Every business owner faces unexpected challenges from time to time, and it's easy to use these as excuses for stagnation. However, it's crucial to see them as opportunities for growth. While you can't control the weather, you can control your reaction to it. Think of rainy days as a chance to jump in puddles, rather than a reason to stay indoors. Apply the same principle to your business setbacks – view them as stepping stones toward progress.
Excuses thrive in a fixed mindset, but reframing your perspective can nurture a growth mindset. Reframing involves looking at situations you can't control from a new angle. Recall a recent experience where you felt helpless, and try seeing it through a positive lens. This simple practice cultivates resilience, optimism, and the ability to identify opportunities in every situation.
By using the power of proactive thinking and reframing, you'll gradually develop a growth mindset. This mindset is essential for success in your business journey. As you shed excuses and embrace proactive actions, you'll witness transformations not only in your business but also in your personal life. The resilience and adaptability you cultivate will serve as valuable tools, making you a more successful business owner and fostering a happier, more fulfilling life.
Excuses might seem like convenient explanations for a lack of progress, but they only hold you back from reaching your true potential. Taking control of your actions and embracing a proactive mindset is the first step towards achieving your business goals. Remember, challenges are opportunities in disguise, and reframing your thoughts can unleash your capacity for growth.
By implementing the tips, you'll break free from excuses and pave the way for a more successful, resilient, and fulfilling journey in your business and your life. The choice to overcome excuses and seize business and life success is yours – so, are you ready to take that step?
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© Copyright 2024 Suzanne Pittman