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Bring Down Those Barriers!

by Jonathan R Taylor

Sometimes the biggest barriers in life are the ones formed within our own minds. Let me give you an example. On May 6, 1954, Roger Banister was the first person in recorded history to run a sub-four minute mile. Doctors had previously said

Sometimes the biggest barriers in life are the ones formed within our own minds. Let me give you an example. On May 6, 1954, Roger Banister was the first person in recorded history to run a sub-four minute mile. Doctors had previously said that it was not possible, because such exertion would cause the heart to literally explode. Six weeks later, an Australian runner also accomplished this incredible feat. Almost a year later, 8 more runners also accomplished this incredible feat which doctors once said was impossible.
So what happened that would cause 9 more individuals to follow suit after the record had been first broken? The mental barriers had been broken. The level of expectations changed. What was once believed to be an impossible task was now possible in the minds of these other men. You see this kind of example in all kinds of other sports where records are created and then broken not long after.
Let's relate this to being an entrepreneur. Most people love the idea of having their own business. I mean, what's not exciting about being your own boss? Interestingly enough, if many of those same people were pushed a little further on that idea, they'd start giving plenty of reasons (or mental barriers) why they just couldn't do it.
Self employment experts, Paul and Sarah Edwards have narrowed these self imposed barriers down to seven in their book Why Aren't You Your Own Boss. They are:
· I don't know the first step to take.
· I know what I need to do, but I can't get myself going.
· I don't have enough money.
· I don't know anything about business.
· I have hang-ups. (mainly fear of the unknown)
· I have problems. (physical abilities, too old, too young, ect.)
· I have a hard time following through.
If you fall into any of these categories, the question is "can you overcome your doubts?" I believe the answer for most is yes. Why do I say that? Because others have done it!
In fact, if you're interested in reading my answers to some of these reasons, check out my blog this upcoming week. I'll deal with some of these mental barriers more specifically.
Today, let's tackle the barrier I hear most often - "I'm not able to just leave my job and start a business. I have bills to pay and I need health insurance." I realize most people don't have the luxury of just leaving their job on the spot, but once again, this is a self imposed reason for not following your dream. The truth is - you don't have to leave your day job in the beginning.
In fact many successful businesses have started out on a part-time basis and have grown slowly over time. There are plenty of business models that can be run on a part time basis starting out. Dell Computer was run out of a college dorm room in the beginning by then college student Michael Dell. Apple started out in a garage. Google started out as a simple thesis. These and many more like them are household names that started small. So tell me, what's your excuse now?
A book I have recommended a few times already is The Weekend Entrepreneur. It's filled with 101 Great business models that can be jumpstarted on a part-time basis.
Just remember - The best business model will grow out of your own unique abilities and interests. So start making a list, and get busy making a plan. Start bringing down those mental barriers today!

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