The pandemic has given us enough time to reflect on ourselves. Many have even started creating lists on their goals for the next year. Some are also making alternate plans to move forward productively if something worse hit again. None of us are confident about the future anymore’. Aspirations and dreams suddenly feel like a burden to pursue. Among all the others, entrepreneurs are especially on a look out for a guide to tackle the challenges ahead.
It is a well known fact that businesses are the worst hit due to the pandemic. Many wonder whether it is a right time to consider entrepreneurship. There is no more ideal time than this I suppose. The coming year is going to open a new door of possibilities. Aspiring entrepreneurs should start exploring their options. A new path of innovation awaits them.
A quick guide for aspiring entrepreneurs
When I started my business my mentor and friend, Ilay Cooper helped me whenever I was in a dilemma. He made me realise what I’m capable of. Often when we are caught in a battle of self doubt and self confidence, the former kills us slowly while the latter boosts us to move forward. Today when I look back there are few lessons which kept me grounded in my entrepreneurship journey.
Listen to your inner voice
Before you start anything, understand yourself. What kind of work do you enjoy and is that kind of work needed by others? If yes, you can start that enterprise. It is not about creating products but providing solutions. When I ventured into the carpet business many thought I was making a mistake but my ultimate aim was to help myself and the rural community gain to prosper and grow.
Compete with yourself
Do not compare with others, be jealous or indulge in one man show. Study successful people but use that to discover yourself. Everyone can’t be successful by choosing the same path. We need to find our path instead of walking in the path led by others.
Be Humble
Higher education gives you knowledge but you must also be aware of practical realities. Do not be too proud of your degrees. Many a time it is not qualifications and ranks that defines someone rather their character. Make sure your ego is not bigger than your values.
Have an open mind
There is much to learn from everyone around. I’m a person who believes that real education happens after college. Few of my best learnings have come from interacting with the artisans community. They taught me innocence and love can conquer anything in the world. Many might feel silly but innocence is what brought me this far in the business. When my family pushed me away due to my communication with the weaver community, it was the innocent artisans who worked hard and gave Jaipur Rugs the international recognition it deserved. They taught me that patience and humility goes a long way.
Be ready to unlearn
I have met many businessmen and found that when they need new skills, they unlearn the old ones and relearn them with better understanding. You and I can also do that. Always be ready to absorb.
Trust the process
Everyone’s life has ups and downs, you need patience to overcome such times. Each challenge and obstacle is a lesson or perhaps a story to share later with the world. Trust the process, it keeps you grounded and pushes you to introspect.
What really matters is Values
The only thing you must never lose are your values. Create a culture which will help you as well as others grow. No matter what happens, never compromise on your core values. Without them you are nothing.
