Authenticity in Entrepreneurship
The vibe is changing. The days of acting like, looking like, and being like someone else in order to be successful are gone. It isn’t about doing what someone else does. It’s about being yourself, your authentic self, and going after what you truly want.
Believe it or not, authenticity equals money. You will make more money in your business by owning who you are! Your ideal clients or customers will come to you because you are your authentic self, no matter how goofy or silly that may be. Own it and use it, girlfriend!
Here are some tips to help you stay authentic in entrepreneurship:
Create a list of 20 words that describe you and your brand
Think about what you want people to say about you & your business. What sets you apart from the rest? How do you want people to feel when working with you? Make this list and keep it handy. Use it in your marketing and look at it often to inspire your work.
Tune out the noise
Become self-aware of what triggers you into the comparison trap. Scrolling social media and seeing what others are doing should inspire you. The second that you start having negative feelings and comparing yourself to them, it’s time to stop the scroll! Remember this: her being successful is just proof that you can achieve your goals, too! So be inspired by others’ journeys and use it to fuel your path forward in your business.
Own your authentic self
You are the only you in this business. Whatever business it is you are in, you are the only you -even if you are among thousands of others in your industry. You are unique. Your experiences, your perspective, and your values all add up to you being you. Don’t shy away from that. Don’t be afraid of being different. It’s your money maker! It’s what sets you apart from the rest. Own it and love it and just be yourself!
Run your business in a way that feels good to you!
You’ve probably heard some expert tell you that all you need is to do x, y, and z so many times a day/week in order to be successful. Well, in order for your business to be authentic, you need to do it in a way that is authentic to you. No business is one size fits all so no business tip is going to be one size fits all. The question is: what is best for you and your business?
Set Boundaries
Setting boundaries is necessary to creating a life and business that you love and is authentic to you. You get to create a schedule that suits you and your lifestyle. Set working hours that make sense for you. Set boundaries such as when you will respond to emails and messages so that you have time to enjoy your wonderful life outside of your business. Set expectations for your clients or customers for refunds, returns, and the best way to contact you. Remember that this is your business and you get to make the rules!
Keeping the Mindset
Having confidence in your authentic self all starts in your mind. Affirmations are a great way to remember you are strong, capable, and worthy of all of the success you desire. I like to set alarms in my phone, with no sound, and the note being the affirmation. I have 3 that go off during the day to remind me of certain things. Give this a try! Or have them on a note by your computer, say them in the morning or at night, and keep them someplace you will see them often. Whatever works best for you. Just remember that you are enough, you are capable, and you are worthy.
“Just be yourself” is often easier said than done. But with these tips, you can be on your way to being more authentic in your business.
This blog was written by Dani Leggett.
Meet Dani
Dani Leggett is a wife, mom, & business owner x 3. She is on a mission to help as many business owners feel fulfilled in their business as possible! After 8+ years of entrepreneurship, she has learned a lot, seen a lot, and understands the best ways to grow a business (and a life) that you love.
Dani lives in rural Manitowoc County, WI with her husband, 2 girls, 3 dogs, goats & chickens. She loves camping and spending time with her family.
When she’s not making products for Fantasy Farms, at her boutique shop (The Granary) in downtown Manitowoc, or helping her business coaching clients, you can find her lounging with a good book and a glass of wine.
Learn more about what Dani does at www.danileggett.com or get in touch with her via email at hello@danileggett.com. To follow along with Dani check out @iamdanileggett over on Instagram.
