One of the challenges most entrepreneurs run into is the concept of giving ourselves permission. In theory, we know we don't need permission slips to do what we need to do to build an emotionally and financially fulfilling business and create a life we love.
In reality, however, we often hold ourselves back as business owners. We often allow the unspoken expectations of our peers or outdated methods direct how we go about doing things, even if they are detrimental to our overall dreams.
So, while you and I may not know each other personally, if you feel you need to to hear someone else say it so that you can have a "permission moment" – here you go . . .
You have permission to:
- Charge what you need to in order to make your business work, even when you're just starting out.
- Compete with someone who was once a mentor.
- Say no to projects that don't excite you or challenge you creatively.
- Say yes to working for free when it makes sense strategically.
- Define your goals differently than the majority of your industry peers.
- Stop collaborating with a colleague who became emotionally abusive.
- Turn down opportunities that take time, money, or other resources away from your top priorities.
- Be ambitious.
- Revamp your business as it matures (and as you mature).
- Switch career paths or "lanes" when you unexpectedly find one you're more passionate about or that feels more like "a calling."
- Negotiate.
Don't let fear – or the sense that you somehow lack permission – keep you from going after what you want in life.
