Danielle MacLean is a mother, partner of DCL law and appreciator of wine.
Last year, I was asked to present on my experiences with running my own business for the past fifteen years. I had to do some quick math – time really does fly when you are having fun. Here are my hard-earned lessons from that business (and life) journey.
Find your people: Be loyal to your staff, associates, and business partners. Learn to trust and learn to delegate. Grow your network (personal and professional) with reliable people. Support those that support you. Ask for help when you need it. Look after your people, always.
Always be learning: Surround yourself with those that you can learn from, and that are willing to teach you. Teach others what you have learned and take insight from those starting out.
Learn the power of “no”: Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Know what you don’t know. Know when to turn business down. Know who and what is not a good fit for you or your business. Trust your instincts.
Own your mistakes: Admit you were wrong. Make it right. Learn. Move on.
Establish Processes: Look for your pain points. Review what works as often as you review what doesn’t work. Make sure your processes are clear. Keep evolving.
Communicate: Set expectations. Follow up. Don’t underestimate the value of a face-to-face meeting.
Invest in yourself: Your business needs you- look after you! Take time for yourself. Dedicate family time. Exercise. Take trips with your friends. Have fun. Put on your autoreply. Take a day to do nothing at all. Resets can lead to clarity.
Play nice: Think before you speak. Be kind. Look out for others. Help your competitors when they ask. Don’t send a text or email when you are angry. Try to understand other points of view. Strive for positive interactions.
Give back: Help people that can offer nothing in return. Give to your community. Contribute to your profession. Mentor other business owners. Return favors that were granted to you. Remember what it was like when you started out. Making a positive difference in someone’s life will give you far more satisfaction than your positive income statement.
Enjoy what you do, and work hard: Success will follow.
– Danielle MacLean
