5 Proven Steps To Success
5 Proven Steps To Success
Copyright © 2016 by C.D. Tain. All rights reserved in all media. No part of this publication may be reproduced
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1
Formulate Your Business Vision
So you’re stuck in your cubicle for yet another shift at the office. It’s like your own personal dungeon
with four bleak walls and no sense of accomplishment or satisfaction. Well it’s time to take action and
snap out of it because this doesn’t have to be your reality in life. Instead you can follow your dreams
and start to create the ultimate business vision and get out there as an entrepreneur. It’s time to forget
about the past and take control of your future. As the saying goes – vision without action is just a
daydream. So are you a daydreamer or are you ready to take action?
Next it’s time to lay out your mission plan, the whole goal of your business. Once you have laid out the
goal you can work backwards and create the steps needed in order to reach that goal. Asking for help
during this step is crucial, as it will ensure that no steps are missed or performed in the wrong way. I
recommend seeking an experienced business coach or mentor to review your ideas and help you get
started.
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without prior written permission of the copyright holder. http://eWorkSuccess.com
Action Tip: Get expert advice, take action and build your business today!
This also means speaking to your financial adviser about capital requirements. Do you have the
necessary funds to start and grow the business of your dreams? Check out what kind of small
business loans are available, and look into any government programs you may be able to take
advantage of. You may also want investors, which means it’s time to go to them with all your plans. Be
sure you’re well prepared to answer their questions though, good chance they won’t just be willing to
sign away their money with no questions asked. Most American want-trepreneurs have seen the TV
show Shark Tank. This is an informative show to watch if you are considering a new product pitch to a
venture capital firm.
Action Tip: Not sure where to start? Startup University is an extension of Start-up Savant that offers a
virtual classroom. You can learn the essential business skills that would normally take thousands of
hours sifting through business books. Obviously writing a business vision or plan isn’t something you
just do in a day, it takes time, research, and patience. Do the necessary homework, find a trusted
advisor and reach for the stars, it’s your key to escaping that cubicle!
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2
Reprogram Your Mind For Success
Negative thoughts can be pretty consuming, and the problem with them is once they start to creep in
it’s really hard to put an end to them. As an entrepreneur these negative thoughts can really mess with
your vision and ability to succeed. Every belief and habit was formed through repetition in the
subconscious mind, and we have the power to replace them with news ones the same way.
It’s important to learn to replace your negative self-talk with positive affirmations instead. A positive
mindset is a process for most people, it doesn’t just happen. You must be willing to open your mind
and accept the fact that you have something special to offer the world.
Here are some proven ways to reprogram your mind for success and start making your business goals
and dreams a reality thanks to positive thinking.
These are techniques you can use at home or even when you’ve got those extra few minutes to spare
at work. They will take practice but once you get the hang of it, it will become a habit to start thinking
this way and then you’ll see you are suddenly looking at things in a much more positive way.
Visualization
This is actually a good technique to use when it comes to your start-up business. If you’ve ever heard
of a dream board, this is the same idea. It’s about making a picture in your mind of how you want your
business to look and perform. We aren’t talking about the initial set-up, rather the end product.
Visualize how your business will help customers, how big your customer base is, the pride of looking
back on the success of your business, how big your brand is, etc. Dream big, because that’s what
visualization is all about.
By dreaming big you’ll be thinking positive thoughts, and then putting out positive energy. We
often get back what we project to others and how they see us throughout the day. For example, have
you ever noticed how people smile more when they are having a good day? People are drawn to a
genuine smile and react to what they see with positive comments and enthusiasm. This is positive
energy and emotions at work which can lead to opportunities and success in your business and life.
Visualization works as your subconscious mind starts to accept it as a reality. After this happens your
actions start to change, as do your habits all to coincide with your positive visualization and how you
project yourself to others.
Meditation
Meditation is all about self-awareness in that particular moment in time. You could say it's living in the
moment if you will. Meditation is a practice that has been around since 5th BC and is a learned
technique. Through practice you can learn how to train your mind to rid it of outside
interference, thoughts, worries, and stress. This includes breathing exercises and reaching a state
of "quiet" and "calmness". There are classes, tutorials, videos, and books that can take you through
the steps and from there it’s all about practice makes perfect.
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Meditation can instantly help to calm you, which can be important before heading into that big
meeting, or taking on a busy stressful day. Meditation techniques can be applied to your business and
all aspects of your life.
Meditation can take as short or as long of time as you wish. You can perform it each morning, during
your lunch break, before bed, whenever you like. By clearing your mind you’ll be banishing any
negativity and stress, which leaves your mind open to let the positive thoughts back in.
The road to success is dotted with all kinds of unexpected obstacles. Take the time to learn more and
reprogram your mind for success, then you’ll be able to handle these obstacles with ease.
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3
Face Your Fears
It doesn’t matter who you are or what your age is, you’ve got fears. They could be hidden fears that
you don’t talk about, or perhaps you’re vocal with your fears. Fears are a crazy thing, they can
completely alter how you act and perceive things, which can end up affecting you in a negative way.
One place this is true is in the business world. If you’ve been dreaming about starting your own
business, then you are probably facing a handful of fears that may have you frozen and unable to act
upon your dreams.
Let's look at five top reasons facing your fears can end up leading you to huge success.
Sitting back and just accepting your fears as reality will guarantee one thing, you won’t ever have the
pleasure of seeing the good that can come out of facing them. It’s a matter of putting yourself in the
mindset for success, which of course is easier said than done.
Keep in mind that fear usually comes from an irrational place, emotions, or false information. None of
these factors are ideal to use in making a decision. Fear is very rarely built upon factual information,
so therefore what is there actually to fear?
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You can benefit from facing fears
So now that we’ve determined where the fear stems from and what some of the common fears are, it’s
time to look at why it’s so important and beneficial to face them.
1. You will never realize your dreams if you don’t face your fears. This is the ultimate number one
reason it’s worth facing your fears. How can your goal of owning and operating your own
successful business ever come true if you don’t take the plunge and try? If you choose to let
fear guide you, those dreams and goals are next to impossible to realize.
2. You will build your confidence. What’s the very best way to build your confidence? It’s by
succeeding. Each time you succeed in something your confidence grows, and you feel
motivated to keep reaching for that next goal. By facing your fear and then realizing success
you will feel the strength you need in order to face that next fearful situation. You will be able to
look back on this experience as a positive one.
3. You will learn how to dissect fears and get to the facts that much faster and smoother.
Because fear is not often based on facts it’s important to learn how to wade through the untrue
aspects and get to the real root of things. The more you do it, the better and faster you’ll get at
it. You can learn to overcome fears.
4. It will force you to dream bigger. Let’s just imagine you’ve had this big goal of starting your own
business for years but have been too scared. Now you finally do it, and you’ve succeeded.
What this teaches you is that you can dream bigger next time because you know you can
achieve it. You must be willing to toss out negative self talk and trust in your ability to succeed.
5. Fear slows you down and makes you think things through. Fear can actually be a very helpful
thing in some aspects. If you’re feeling scared you’re likely not going to act as quickly as you
may otherwise do. You will think through your actions, lay out a plan, and address all your
worries. There’s a good chance that by doing that you’re setting yourself up for success.
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4
Develop Daily Success Habits
If you’re just starting out as a solopreneur and you’re wondering how you go about achieving success
there are of course all kinds of answers, but we’re going to look at five daily habits that you can
incorporate into your routine that will help you reach the success you’re looking for. Being a
solopreneur can be tiring, stressful, and consuming so finding tips that can help you in with the
process can make a big difference both in your business and personal life. The good news is, you can
learn to form success habits through repetition and tracking your accomplishments.
We have all kinds of electronic devices to distract our attention these days. Try turning your devices
off and actually writing down your top 3 goals in a journal each week. Make a list of short-term goals
you want to achieve. This may involve a number of tasks as you work toward each goal. Focus on the
end result by limiting your list to the top 3 goals you want to achieve. Make sure they are realistic
short-term goals that can be completed within one week. This is a very important and simple process
that can yield huge results through repetition. Keep a journal of your goals and think about them
throughout each day. Each of your 3 goals should have a priority number from the highest to the
lowest to help you focus.
Action Tip: Here is a simple strategy to help you work through your written list of goals and build
confidence. Track your progress by creating a check mark in two stages to show your goal status as
“started” or “complete”.
First, put a ___ (blank line) with a \ (back slash mark) on the blank line so it looks like this:
\ 1. Highest priority goal. The \ (back slash mark) shows that you have “started” working on your goal.
Next, draw a second line (forward slash mark) to complete the creation of a check mark on your list
when you have “completed” your number 1. Highest priority goal. Yes, you just created a basic
check mark on paper to show the completion of your goal. This simple tracking process may seem
trivial but it works! Repeat the same process for goal 2 and 3.
This is easy and effective if you actually draw the second half of the check mark line on paper
when you finish each goal. Neuroscience studies of brain activity have shown that writing
things down increases neuro-imaging and brain mapping which improves the pathways to
learning new habits.
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Keep it simple, track your daily progress and develop a sense of accomplishment as you complete
each goal. I use this method each week and it really works if you stick to it. Be results oriented and
think about your most important short-term goals throughout each day. After 1 month I went to a local
coffee shop and started reading through my journal. Surprise, I did not accomplish every goal on my
list. The good news is, I was AMAZED at what I did accomplish in just a few weeks! This simple
tracking method was life changing and I highly recommend it if you like to see results on paper. Try it
for at least 30-60 days!
Action Tip: Visualize how satisfied you will feel after checking off each goal. This success habit can
change your life by applying what you visualize to what you actually do.
Daily Habit #1
What's one of the biggest reasons you became an solopreneur or entrepreneur? If your answer is to
stay out of those endless meetings that really didn't seem to help anything, then you'll love this daily
habit. With this tip you'll want to limit those daily meetings with your staff because the fact is that they
aren't often all that productive. Instead you can spend your time chatting with a client, going over
numbers, or even going through emails. If you find that a daily meeting is an absolute must, the pros
suggest keeping the meeting to a limit of 15 minutes. Often this is more than enough time to go over
any pressing matters.
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without prior written permission of the copyright holder. http://eWorkSuccess.com
Daily Habit #2
Set up a daily agenda and/or routine that you stick to. What this means is that it's important to plan out
your schedule/agenda at least one day in advance. It helps you to figure out your upcoming day, it can
reduce stress, it keeps everyone on the same page, and ensures that nothing falls through the cracks.
This habit is meant for businesses of all sizes whether you have just started your business and you’re
it as far as employees go, or you’ve got a pretty substantial staff you are managing.
Daily Habit #3
Always be sure to check up on the progress of your business. This one often falls to the wayside,
especially when your day is busy and you barely have time to think let alone take a few moments to
look over numbers. Each day it's important to at least see how the cash flow is doing, how your goals
are coming along, and the progress you are making. These will act as indicators so you know if you
need to make changes in your business plan, your schedule, or any other aspect of the business.
Chugging along blindly is certainly easier to do but in the long run this method won’t pay off. How will
you measure your success if you’re never checking up on your progress?
Now with all this said you don’t want this task to be overwhelming and too time consuming. Try to
keep things organized and at-hand so you can always check the progress easily and quickly.
Daily Habit #4
Dedicate time to following up with people. This can mean phoning a customer, responding to emails,
chatting with employees, whatever needs to be done. A block of time each day should be dedicated to
this task. A good idea is to start your day with this habit and get off to a productive start right from the
get go. By starting your day with this habit you also won’t have a chance to forget about any pressing
matters you wanted to follow up on. Also by doing this every day, you ensure that your emails and
phone messages don’t get out of control, and then end up being too intimidating to get through them
all.
Daily Habit #5
Don’t forget your own health. While you’re busy worrying about all the business details, responding to
customers, planning out your agenda, and sticking to the program your health can take a beating. This
daily habit is on that doesn’t take place in the office, rather it takes place at home. Make sure you’re
eating a healthy well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep each night. Another
habit that successful entrepreneurs often make mention of is that it’s important to find some sort of
relaxation technique that works for you. This can be yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, and other
relaxation techniques that take your mind off of work and force you to slow down and live in the
moment.
A Winning Combination
By employing all five of these daily habits you’re sure to have a winning combination on your hands
that will help you reach your optimum level of success as an entrepreneur.
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without prior written permission of the copyright holder. http://eWorkSuccess.com
5
Choose To Live Instead Of Exist
Your current situation is not a reflection of your future. Choose to LIVE instead of Exist. Be
thankful and happy for what you do have.
How many times have you heard the phrase “choose to live instead of exist”. Have you ever really
stopped to think about what it means and how it applies to you and your life? It’s not just your personal
life it’s also your business life. Just existing means you are often stagnant and just going with the flow,
rather than taking initiative and making things happen. It’s as though you are surviving in a comatose
type of state. Now if you decide you’re ready to start living, then that means you’re ready to start
taking chances, setting goals, and really reaching for that next level. Sure it’s not going to be easy,
and there are bound to be bumps along the way, but that’s part of living.
Remember, your current situation is not a reflection of your future, that’s up to you to decide. There
are a number of proven motivational techniques a person can try, sometimes one works like a charm,
while in other instances it’s a combination of techniques that seems to do the trick. It’s up to you to do
a little experimenting, and before long you’ll start realizing you’re busy living rather than just existing.
The key to success is motivation and how you go about maintaining a positive mindset. I post
inspirational messages on my my Twitter page page for business associates and friends. I've noticed
an increased number of followers that reciprocate by encouraging each other to move forward and
thrive each day.
Start Networking
It’s amazing how motivated you can get once you start networking. If you’re looking to start your own
business, this is even more important. Not only will you be making contacts within your industry, but
you can also gain advice, tips, and support from these contacts, all of which will motivate you. Most
large towns and cities have entrepreneur networks that you can join so you will be able to meet with
others nearby and even in the same industry. Meetup is a good place to start with groups in most
cities.
If you’re looking to conduct your networking through social media a great place to start is LinkedIn.
You may be familiar with LinkedIn but when was the last time you really used this site to promote your
business profile. Think of this as a business person’s version of Facebook. By definition, from the
LinkedIn Corporation, it "strengthens and extends your existing network of trusted contacts". Through
this network you'll be able to find contacts, customers, form new deals and partnerships, read up on
pulse business news, and more. However, Twitter is my top pick for making business connections on
social media. I'm still amazed by the response I've received so far.
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without prior written permission of the copyright holder. http://eWorkSuccess.com
Action Tip: I never considered Twitter to be a good platform for business networking until a few years
ago. I was amazed at how easy it is to connect with like-minded business owners and potential
customers. You can't be spamy and expect to see results on Twitter. I look at this platform as one big
networking group. Everything I tweet is honest and genuine just like I'm having a conversation at a
networking group event. I tweet about something I find funny, upcoming business events, inspiring
quotes to help others and more. This is all about building virtual relationships while expanding your
brand awareness.
Do NOT over tweet your welcome. This will cause your followers to drop off as they become
overwhelmed by the number of tweets you post each day. A few tweets per day is plenty. I
typically tweet mornings and afternoons. Keep it real.
Additional Techniques
While all of the above mentioned techniques help you with staying motivated and choosing to live
rather than just exist, it’s also important use additional techniques outside of work. Your personal
health, both mentally and physically, is something you have to maintain. After all, when you’re the
boss and the person running the show, you need to have the energy to do so. Obviously it can get
pretty stressful.
If you feel the stress building it’s time to try out the following techniques:
• Step away from your desk for a few moments to clear your head
• Use breathing exercises to help you calm down
• Be sure you’re getting enough sleep
• Add 30 minutes of exercise into your daily routine
• Try to eat a well-balanced healthy diet so that you are energized
The Pomodoro Technique has helped people reduce stress and stay productive. Try it and see what
works best for you.
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without prior written permission of the copyright holder. http://eWorkSuccess.com
Dress the Part
Being a solopreneur/entrepreneur requires all kinds of things – dedication, ideas, a positive attitude,
and courage. Perhaps you’ve already checked off all of the boxes, or you’re in the process of doing it,
but there’s also the fact that dressing for the part can help you achieve your goals. Not only does the
way you present yourself affect how others see you but it also affects how you think about yourself.
When you’re lazing around in jeans and a t-shirt it’s hard to think of yourself as that high-powered
entrepreneur, however when you’re dressed in business ware everyone around you, including
yourself, will believe in you. You look the part, you will exude confidence, and may just help to take
you and your ideas to that next level.
If you’re the type who has never been part of the business world, attending meetings with potential
clients and investors, meeting with suppliers, and the bank, then you may not even know what
“dressing the part” means. You want to be sure you are being taken seriously, which means your
outward appearance plays a role. This is when it’s a great time to ask for a little help. Don’t be afraid to
ask for assistance at the shop and get their input on what will help you present the most confident
image possible. You can also ask friends and family to give you some tips and guidance on what
direction you should be heading in.
Unfortunately people often perceive those who under-dress as “lazy”, which you certainly don't want to
be seen as. As an entrepreneur you are the exact opposite of lazy, so overdressing is always the
better road to take. Now this doesn’t mean you need to go invest in an over-priced suit, but owning at
least a couple of business attire items is always a great idea. You don’t even have to wear them every
day, instead save them for the day you’re meeting with others. I know a guy that makes six figures
from his home. He puts on a nice button shirt and jacket for webinars and Skype meetings. He only
wears the shirt and jacket when he is actually on camera! Go with what works and make sure you look
the part.
When you start your business chances are it will either be just you, or a small handful of employees.
You won’t have the luxury of passing off tasks and delegating work. Everything will be on your
shoulders. This isn’t something you need to fear or be overwhelmed by, instead look at it as a great
learning opportunity. You will have the pleasure of getting to know every aspect of your business so
that one day when it is successful and you can sit back a bit, you will know how things run, and you’ll
be able to understand how to grow and make things even better. Shying away from hard work can be
a gut reaction, but it also means you won’t be taking any chances. A successful entrepreneur is one
that takes chances, goes out on limb, and really reaches for the stars. Remember, anything worth
getting it worth working for.
By being that hardworking individual you are setting an example to your employees and
customers/clients on how you run things. This hard work will reflect very positively on you and your
business and will make people want to invest in you, deal with you, and be around you. It’s a solid trait
to possess both in your career and personal life.
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without prior written permission of the copyright holder. http://eWorkSuccess.com
Create Your Future
Creating your future is a wonderfully fulfilling thing to do, yes it’s hard work, but that hard work will
make it all the more rewarding when you’re successful and living a freedom lifestyle!
Invest in yourself and make it happen! I hope you like the podcast and
enjoy the free gifts. Please leave a review on iTunes and subscribe to the
podcast. This will enable us to deliver new content to help our listeners.
Thank You,
Chris Tain
Copyright © 2016 by C.D. Tain. All rights reserved in all media. No part of this publication may be reproduced
without prior written permission of the copyright holder. http://eWorkSuccess.com