Find Your Why. Start Your Business.

In this special mini episode of Aspire, the host discusses the pivotal question of when to start your own business. Many aspiring entrepreneurs face common fears, such as the fear of failure, financial concerns, and perfectionism, which often hold them back. The host explains that there's never a perfect moment to start and that moving forward despite uncertainties is vital. The motivation to start should come from a strong 'why,' a personal reason that fuels the desire to create something meaningful.

The host shares a personal journey of starting their first business out of frustration from feeling underpaid and undervalued. This frustration became their driving force. They note that many potential entrepreneurs may list reasons why they cannot start a business, but recognizing these limitations can be useful in understanding one's weaknesses and abilities. The episode emphasizes that not all founders fit a traditional mold, and diverse perspectives are valuable. The key takeaway is to clarify your motivations and why you want to create or offer something new.

The host urges listeners to embrace the complexities of entrepreneurship, highlighting that challenges will arise, and it's the underlying purpose that will help overcome them. They also discuss the positives of entrepreneurship, such as freedom, opportunity, responsibility, and personal growth. However, entrepreneurship is not without its hardships, including sleepless nights and self-doubt.

Starting small is a recurring theme; entrepreneurs are encouraged to test ideas gradually, perhaps as side hustles. The host emphasizes that it's acceptable to maintain a steady job while starting out, relieving some pressure from the entrepreneurial journey. Support systems and tools like Shopify are also noted as essential for managing the logistical aspects of running a business, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on their vision.

In conclusion, the host challenges listeners to articulate their 'why,' take that first small step toward starting a business, and seek support. They reaffirm that the time to start is now, regardless of the circumstances.