Clearly
focused
In the beginning entrepreneurs
dreams are often foggy and somewhat unclear. However, with continued
focus, research and planning the dream will become clear and specific.
These answers to these
questions could indicate a possible business idea. However, just because
we may believe in the need for a better product or service, it does
not necessarily mean there will be others who believe it. In order
for any product or service to be a viable business venture there must
be a market for it. But don't stop now! Testing your idea is the next
section in this manual.
Developing a focused "vision"
takes mental energy and research. It means you must learn everything
you can about the potential product or service. It means developing
unique qualities for that product and service. Qualities that cause
others to want to purchase your product. Your vision is your picture
of what the business will look like in the future. It includes a sense
of the level of quality of your business, for example, "The best in
the region", or "the most economical choice". Your vision will also
include profitability. Profits help you gain financial independence
as well as help the business grow.
An important part of focusing
on the dream includes your view of yourself as successful. Visualization
is a strategy often used by champions in the sports arena. It means
concentration on a very clear picture of "doing it right". The tennis
champion will visualize in their mind the perfect serve or backhand
shot. Visualization isn't just a one-time view in your mind, but it
is a constant mental rehearsal. Golf pros will testify that they have
dramatically improved their golf game by practicing their swing in
their mind.
Clear mental visions, repeated
over and over and again, begin to cause you to take the right actions
which result in success. This same concept works in business as well.
If our vision of ourselves is self-defeating, our actions will eventually
become self-defeating. Therefore, you need to program your mind with
positive beliefs about yourself and your abilities.
Visualization will help
to position you for a successful adventure into business ownership.
Of course you need to be prepared for the journey. To be an effective
entrepreneur you have to constantly be open to learning.
Next
Chapter...
