It’s exciting to start your own new business, but it comes with its anxieties, too. Fortunately, with the right planning (like goal setting) and tools (like accounting software), you might discover you’re more ready than you think. Here are a few tips if you’re struggling to overcome the fears of starting a new business.

Plan for success.

Your first step is creating a business plan. It will help prepare you for success as well as keep you organized and focused. Shopify outlines the different styles: traditional, lean, and nonprofit. Include an executive summary, description of your company, outline of management and organization, a financial plan, and more.

You should also ensure you have any necessary software. If you’re worried about customer service, help desk software helps you receive and record customer complaints so they’re addressed right away. If you’re nervous about crunching numbers, try an online accounting system that can help maintain sales information, bills, payroll, and much more. Available technology can do wonders for your peace of mind!

Set yourself up for success.

It’s time to ease your way into setting up. Think about how to make your business goals specific and challenging and steer clear of vague and unrealistic. Your goals have to be more specific than “gain more customers,” and more realistic than “make $3,000 the first month.” Goals should inspire you, not discourage you.

Hiring is another area where you need to plan for success. Start by creating an avatar of your ideal candidate. Be specific in what you’re looking for, bearing in mind that it isn’t always about skill level. Sometimes, a candidate that’s great on paper might rub you the wrong way for some reason. If your gut tells you that it isn’t the right person, trust it. You can teach skills, not change clashing personalities.

Look for people who are sincerely excited and understand the amount of work that lies ahead. Starting a business is no easy feat, and you’ll want people by your side who are passionate about meeting your goals. By having the right team around you, you’ll feel much more at ease as the time comes to open shop.

Meditate.

Don’t scoff; many successful business owners swear by it. Let meditation become a part of your daily life. Ideally, it eventually becomes a habit. You might find yourself starting or ending every day with one. Not only will this bring you peace of mind in general, it can really take the edge off that business startup stress.

Meditation is a great item to include in your business plan. Perhaps you’ll encourage employees to meditate at their desks when they need a break. You could also choose to start every staff meeting with a brief meditation to get everyone loosened up. Plan on creating a peaceful environment for all workers.

Network, network, network.

It’s an essential part of any business venture: networking. There’s almost always someone who knows someone who knows someone, so work your contact list hard. Ask family and friends if they know anyone in the same industry, even if they don’t live in your city or state. You can also inquire about potential business partners. At the very least, let your personal network know what you’re up to.

There are also all kinds of groups that can help you network, from the local small business administration to Business Network International (BNI). Regardless of how you received your potential business contacts’ information, don’t be afraid to reach out. Remember that every new connection, even those that might not seem relevant, is a new opportunity. The more positive relationships you build, the more people who will want to work with and for you.

The truth is, starting a new business is scary. Nevertheless, you can conquer your fears with help from planning (your business plan), software (help desk and accounting software), healthy practices (meditation), and the right contacts (networking). Don’t let your fears stand in the way of your business dream. Shoo them away and go for it!

Learn how to break through limiting beliefs and achieve the business and personal success you deserve. Start a coaching session with Charlene Day today.

Guest Blogger

Jennifer Scott