Figure out an alternative to business cards.
They’re:
Being without business cards might be scary.
But that’s just how business card marketers want you to feel.
Instead, pass your phone. Offer your URL. Or something else that’s actually effective.
Anything but business cards.
It’s okay if you want to quit.
If it’s early on and it’d be easy, don’t. Resist the temptation.
Quitting now could be the worst thing you ever do.
If it’s been a while, and it’d be difficult, do. Find the courage.
Quitting now could be the best thing you ever do.
So, do wait.
But then, what are you waiting for?
You’re gonna want to get help. Build a team. Outsource.
That’s fine.
But don’t rush it. Or worry about the fact that you’re STILL doing everything yourself.
Building a team is smart if you have a crystal-clear project you’re looking to complete.
It’s not smart, however, without one.
It’s true.
Copying other people’s work will get you ahead.
Just don’t expect it to bring you much satisfaction.
Your people.
They may be asking for a budget or an update or a recommendation or an exchange or an explanation or an opinion or a demonstration or a whatever.
They don’t actually want what they’re asking for.
They just want to stop worrying.
Make it your job to put them at ease.
Smokers do it, and nobody blinks an eye.
In fact, people are uncomfortable suggesting they don’t.
They need it.
They’re better when they come back.
We used to call ’em fresh air breaks, ironically.
Seven minutes outside to have a smoke.
Today, alas, it’s strange to tell your team you’re stepping outside for a true fresh air break. Seven minutes to just breathe.
So if you have to, tell ’em you’re going for a smoke.
But definitely, definitely take your fresh air breaks.
It’s true. You can’t please everyone, all the time.
They know it. They’re fine with it.
Why can’t you be?
Next to you on the plane. In the elevator. In line for the rental car. At the lounge. At the bar. In the cab.
You’re not going to remember any of it.
The conversations you have there, however, you’ll never forget.
Say somethin’.
Your first customer. Reader. Student. Supporter. Fan. Audience.
Your first everything that you do which requires you to put yourself out there will probably be your nana.
Yes, she’ll be your customer, reader, student, supporter, fan, audience no matter what. And she’s probably not the only one anymore.
But don’t forget to thank her for your continued support.
She always appreciates it. And so do the people who came after her.
Love you, Nana.
Please know that I am still reading email, and if I don’t respond to yours, you haven’t indicated enough urgency.
When I get back to my desk in a couple of days, your problem will likely be solved, and I’ll be off the hook.
But if, by chance, you had something important or just wanted to tell me you appreciate me, I’ll get back to you when I return. (In this case, it’s Tuesday.)
Good things,
Lenny