Do You Ever Get Frustrated by Your Startup?

I do!! Bah Humbug! I sound like Scrooge, sorry! I ask this question because I can’t be the only entrepreneur out there hitting my head against the wall trying to move to the next stage, unsure what that stage should be! Today I’m frustrated by our darn business model (revenue stream). I know we’re getting close to figuring it out so I’m trying to be positive that there’s a way I can make full-time income for myself and my partners here while serving women entrepreneurs… What’s frustrating is that it seems I can easily figure everyone else’s strategy but my own. It’s always more challenging to look within!

For the past few weeks we’ve been in research mode. Peter Tennis, our strategic advisor has us doing a lot of research and it’s been very helpful to consider the possible business structures, “non-profit”, “paid-membership organization”, “professional organization”, “franchise”… we’re going through each scenario and asking the questions so we can identify which is the best fit for us. We’re also doing branding and marketing research.

Another thing we’re doing is requesting members to participate in a survey. (I realize it’s a very busy time to ask people to participate, but if you could take a moment and help us out…here’s the survey link. Bless you!!!) The survey results tells us what our members want from our community and how we can serve them better. So far the request for more networking is high (online forum, contact me email buttons on profile pages) and also a weekly podcast has been popular. It’s great to get feedback so we know what your experience has been and what your needs and interests are.

I’m excited to evaluate our survey results, our research, and create our action plan, so we can start 2008 with a solid focus and enjoy business because we’re clear about what we want and where we’re headed.

Today’s Magic Wand: Be honest. What frustrates you about your startup? Consider an action plan so you can move ahead and start loving your startup again. What a great Christmas present to yourself!