Are You Holding Your Business Back?

Today I received an email from a new client asking if we could discuss some personal life issues in our coaching session this week, rather than focus on her business. We've shared only one session together, so she isn't yet aware of my primary coaching principle that "An entrepreneur's business reflects the state of her inner-being." Yes, we will be focus on her personal life, because until inner-most thoughts and fears are addressed, no entrepreneur's business will reach its full potential.

Entrepreneurs are typically strong people who are risk-takers and step up to the challenge when someone says, "You'll never pull that off." Entrepreneurs are thick-skinned and accustomed to showing the resilient, determined side of their personality to the outer world. Oftentimes, there is no time to address what's going on deep down inside or they feel unsafe revealing the more vulnerable side of themselves, yet this type of discovery process is critical to the business - and to the business owner's well-being.

Do any of these questions or statements sound familiar to you?

- Sometimes I have no clue what I'm doing, what if I make a mistake?
- Sometimes I feel like a fake. What if I get found out?
- Being a business owner is so lonely; no one really knows what I'm feeling.
- I am an entrepreneur because I value my freedom, but life balance is gone.
- I have to sacrifice my own happiness for now, but maybe things will get better someday.
- I'm so busy working in my business, that I can't really grow my business. It's overwhelming.
- What will happen if I fail? I can't let anyone know how afraid I am.
- I have to work hard and long to make this business work, I don't have time to enjoy life anymore.

These are only a few of the limiting thoughts and beliefs that, in my experience, are most common to the solopreneur's right-brained way of thinking. If you identify with any of these, know that you are not alone. Also know that you may be holding your business back, not to mention your life happiness.

Who do you have in your life that you can be your own, authentic-self around? Who do you share your fears and successes with? It's important to have a confidant, a cheer-leader, someone who believes in you. Build time into your schedule to talk to someone on a regular basis; a friend, peer, spouse, coach, sibling or therapist. Go somewhere where you won't feel judged and can explore your true feelings. As you resolve these natural fears, both you and your business are likely to benefit greatly.

Who do you turn to for help? How does it benefit you? If you have comments or questions, please share them here on The Million-Dollar Mindset!