3 common misconceptions about starting and growing your online business

There’s never been a better time to begin your own online business! It’s true, I’ve got to agree, this is where the world is headed and you have ample opportunity to be a part of it. 

But the reality is that whilst anybody with even minimal resources can get started, not many people build a viable business let alone a financially successful one. 

I’m a mindset mentor and so I will tell you to keep focused on the outcome that you want but I know that wishful thinking and positivity alone won’t get you there. Getting real and honest about it is a GOOD thing and puts the power back in your hands to truly create your own path. 

So whether you’ve already started or you’re still in the ideas phase, there are a few things to be super clear on so you’re not BSing yourself.

​

Misconception #1: It’s quick and easy to get started. 

Sure it is if you’ve had a business before and you know your way around business legislation, taxes, social media, website creation, branding, marketing, and the list goes on. The experts tell you, do x,y, and z, and you’ll be up and running in just a few short days. 

That sounds perfect only they forget to mention that x,y, and z each have 100 different moving parts, many of which you don’t understand. 

So can you really get started quickly and easily? Well you can decide a business name and register and set up a simple website and a Facebook page in a few days. The majority won’t be making money in the first few days, sometimes weeks or even months. 

Now, am I trying to depress you or deter you from starting your business? Hell no! The message is this; if you don’t know what you’re doing, don’t expect it to be quick and easy, you’ll only be frustrated and disappointed. 

Reality #1: There’s a steep learning curve in the beginning and it will take some time. If you want to speed up the process, get yourself a mentor or a coach who can show each step along the way. 


Misconception #2 Follow my business formula and you’ll be an overnight success. 

Every expert and non-expert will be shouting at you to do it this way and do it that way. In other words, do it their way. Here’s the thing, no strategy is one size fits all and you may need to shop around. Better still, learn the fundamentals, the timeless strategies of success, build a strong foundation, and adapt your strategy until it works for you. 

But Melissa, you just said to get a mentor to show you each step of the way. Yes I did! The point is, don’t assume that it’s the only way and that someone else’s strategy will truly be a fit for your personality, lifestyle, other obligations, etc. 

Reality #2: Not all strategies are equal for you. No forty-something woman with three children at home can realistically take on the strategy of a 20-year-old hustler. The message; be smart, be discerning when choosing who you model your strategy from, and stay honest with yourself about what is working and what isn’t.


Misconception #3 Build it and they will come.

Start your business, it’s easy, it’s fun, just do this and that and you’ll have a line-up of people waiting to work with you. I’ve lost count of how many clients thought they just needed to build a website and then wait. 

I call total BS on this idea and if this is your belief then it’s time for a big reality check. Your new business has potential. But it takes YOU showing up consistently and taking massive action to get it going. And honestly folks, this is where most people come undone. Many give up the moment they become uncomfortable and retreat with a bunch of excuses as to why it didn’t work out.

Reality #3: If you’re new to business, you’ll need to grow in yourself in order to grow your business. To grow your business and attract clients you will need courage, persistence, visibility, clarity, and be putting yourself out there and making offers. So by all means put up your ‘open for business’ sign but don’t be fooled into thinking that’s all you need to do. Develop your mindset for success, become courageous, and resilient on your new and exciting business adventure. 


So there you have it. Love it? Hate it? Let me know.

Wish it were different? Yep, me too.

Willing to go for it anyway? If this article hasn’t put you off growing your own online business then reach up with one hand right now and pat yourself on the back. 

But don’t stop there… what step do you need to take next to get the support, guidance, and accountability to make sure you follow through and succeed? What do you need to learn or do differently?

Make your plan of action and get to it because the world is waiting for what you have to offer.
​

Meet Melissa Kay 
A mother, lover of life, personal growth, and good coffee, Melissa has a passion for inspiring and helping others to dream big and take action. She owns and runs Melissa Kay Coaching where she focuses on empowerment and lasting transformation, so her clients can create a life and business they truly love. 
​

Ways to work with Melissa
Building your business dream - Inner Entrepreneur course
Work with Melissa VIP style - 1:1 coaching packages
Join the free Facebook community - for daily content and great conversations ​