As a small business owner you know that you’re taking a big risk. According to the Small Business Administration, 50% of small businesses won’t see year 5. With a 50% failure rate, what should you do? Play it extremely safe and only follow the tactics and strategies of others, or blaze your own trail and break all the rules?
I found some inspiration while watching a YouTube interview of comedian Jerry Seinfeld. His show, Seinfeld became one of the most popular TV series of all time. But in his early days, Seinfeld was still figuring it out, just like the rest of us.
That’s when late night host David Letterman gave him this advice:
"Make sure you fail doing exactly what you want to do. That, you can live with."
When you’re building your business, it’s tempting to look sideways. To mimic the tactics, styles, and voices of people you see winning. But let’s be honest: you didn’t start your business to build someone else’s dream.
You have a vision of what you want to see in the world and that vision may seem far off, but if you build your business without honoring it you’ll have a nasty little coworker: regret.
Sure, there are proven strategies that work, but they should be adapted to your strengths, your voice, and your purpose. Not copied blindly.
Remember: Small businesses are dreams, not jobs. When things get tough, remind yourself: you’re not here to play it safe. You’re here to build something that matters. On your terms.
There’s always going to be somewhere a smart, driven professional like you could go find a job. But this is your shot to build something that matters to you. Do it exactly like you want.
And if you ever need a second opinion, a strategy check, or just someone to remind you why you started, I’m right here.
