Sometimes when I listen to business owners talk about how it was when they started their companies, I am enchanted. And, sometimes I am reminded of being 8 years old and listening to my great Aunt Elizabeth talk about the good old days. BORING!
When I try to tease out the difference, I realize it all has to do with why they are telling the story. Are they describing a past they want to go back to? Are they fighting hard against using technology, refusing to adapt to smart phones and email and proudly proclaiming that they are too old to change? I wonder how long they can stay in the competitive business environment that I experience daily.
On the other hand, if they are telling the story to contrast how much the world has changed, I’m all in. I can add stories of my own. Yes, it is really hard to keep up with all the new apps and modes of communication. It is hard to figure out if you should post on Pinterest to get new customers if you are in a fashion industry or if it is just a consumer to consumer site. Yes, investing in technology that allows your customers to see your inventory levels and order for themselves opens up all sorts of questions about IT security. But aren’t these great new challenges?
If it’s starting to seem like too much, or it is just not fun or profitable anymore, be brave. Start thinking of how to move on. It takes most businesses 3 to 5 years to get ready to sell. What’s your best next move?
illustration courtesy of birthstone designs blog