How to Stop Doubting Yourself and Start a Business

Are you considering whether or not to start a business? Are you ready to leave your current job for a new adventure where you are your own boss?

Like many, the idea of becoming your own boss can be stressful. Doubts and insecurities can arise when deciding to take that leap of owning your own business. Below are 5 tips to help fight the inevitable anxieties that come with starting a business.

1. Remember you’re not alone

Although it may be easy to feel like you’re the only one dealing with doubts and fears, you’re not alone! Remember, every great idea, product, and company had a starting place. Here are three instances of accomplished entrepreneurs, like Steve Jobs, along with their renowned quotes.

I’m convinced that about half of what separates successful entrepreneurs from the non-successful ones is pure perseverance.

Steve Jobs | Co Founder of Apple Computers

If you just work on stuff that you like and you’re passionate about, you don’t have to have a master plan with how things will play out.

Mark Zuckerberg | Founder of Facebook

Risk more than others think is safe. Dream more than others think is practical.

Howard Schultz | CEO of Starbucks

2. Lean into support from your friends, family, and mentors

As fears arise, leaning into people that know you and your passions will help you to answer some of those unknowns. Gathering support through mentors that have walked a similar path will help boost your confidence as you start paving your own. The people in your life are there to uplift and support you in all your endeavors so don’t be afraid to dream with them, ask their advice, and tell them your worries.

3. Be Prepared

Clear steps lead to clear actions. Set specific goals for yourself and know when you want to achieve them by. Do your research, know what your next move is, and then execute! Many of your initial anxieties can be put to rest by being prepared. Thinking through the details of your next few steps will help minimize the risks associated with them. Not only are you able to clear up any of the unanswered questions you may have had about your new endeavor, now you are able to enjoy it. Your new adventure becomes an adventure once again.

4. Establish balance

Thinking about starting a new business can take over most of your thoughts and a lot of your time, but it is important to remember to set aside time to do things that relax you! Schedule time to catch up with friends, go on a walk, or do a little shopping and de-stress. A new business adventure doesn’t have to be stressful if you remember to balance your time, energy, and passions. Being your own boss means not only thinking about your career goals, but your personal ones as well. Establish that good work-life balance and you’ll be more rested, more productive, and less anxious! Successful and wealthy entrepreneurs possess various frugal habits that have contributed to their success.

Read about other entrepreneurs that overcame challenges and found that perfect work-life balance.

5. Just do it.

Nike has a point. Half the battle of starting something new is getting out there and actually doing it. Although there are many smart ways to prepare for your new endeavor, you’ll never really know how successful you can be until you’re willing to put yourself out there. If you’ve taken the time to seek advice from family and friends, walked with others that have paved a similar path, and set goals as you’ve prepared for your next few steps…just do it. You’ll thank yourself later. Read about two men who did just that, and have never looked back.