I just got back from being interviewed on Fox 28 – speaking as an expert on women entrepreneurs! Here’s a recap…

 5 of the Biggest Challenges Women Entrepreneurs Typcially Experience

1. Lack of motivation and desire – Find your Passion!

It’s easy to fall in love with your business however, the romance fades quickly. It’s a choice to stay in love and to stay connected to your passion, especially during tough times.

2. Lack of confidence & mindset skills - Stretch out of your comfort zone.

Women are often plagued by the 3 P’s (even very successful & accomplished women that I coach …sometimes struggle with these…)

• Fear of Pushy – Focus on what your business does for others; not to them.
• Plagued by Pessimism – Afraid of getting a NO? No is not a personal rejection.
• Paralyzed by Perfection – Pursue steady progress; not perfection. (Read Cynthia Kersey, Unstoppable Women)

3. Lack of structure, systems & accountability – Take consistent actions!

When you are your own boss, you must boss yourself enough or else your business will suffer.

4. Lack of time - Do better planning, prioritizing & giving up to get.

Women, namely moms, are the often the ‘default option’ in many homes…for carpools, doctor’s appointments & more.

• Publicize and stick to your office hours.
• Make sure that your love affair with your business does not push your family away.
• Let your children hear you say, “Oh, I need get off the phone, my daughter just walked in…”
• Schedule regular spouse date nites & family dinners.

5. Lack of knowledge – Continue learning forever!

Three skill sets that  are critical in today’s marketplace:

 A. Develop networking skills – build a strong support network.

Because you are in business for yourself; does not mean you need to work by yourself.

I got involved with several organization which are proving to be great resources: Like Minded Moms & NAWBO (National Association for Women Business Owners). Give support and you will get support. Team up & create alliances.

In fact, Renee Belbeck, co-founder of Like Minded Moms secured my spot on Fox 28 News speaking on women entrepreneurs.  Recent evidence that networking and building alliances pays off!

B. Acquire sales skills – be able to comfortably and authentically sell your business. Too many women say, “I hate the selling part.” Get training in any of the areas you need help. When you invest in yourself, you always get a great ROI, a return on investment.

Entrepreneurship is booming …now is the time to TAKE CHARGE of your career.