Part 3: 10 Tips for Succeeding in the New Economy
How do you succeed in the New Economy?
I don’t have all the answers (beware of anyone who claims they do), but I have successfully been an entrepreneur for the past three years. Along the way, I’ve learned some lessons that I wish I would have known or paid more attention to when starting out. Incidentally, I also learned a lot about what not to do from spending six years working as a consultant to Big Business.
There’s a reason so many people choose the “deferred-life plan” beyond just not knowing other things are possible. People also choose that route because it’s more of a sure thing. The outcomes and process for succeeding in traditional employment are well known. There is comfort and peace of mind associated with not having to struggle so hard to reach your goals.
What I’m saying is that lifestyle design and success in the New Economy isn’t for everyone. You need to realize that it won’t be an easy path. For me, the rewards have made the struggle worth it. You’ll have to make your own decision about whether that’s the trade-off you’re looking for.
If you do decide to jump in with both feet, the following tips will help you succeed. These are things I’ve learned from running a venture capital backed startup and a couple of other bootstrapped businesses, from blogging at Free Pursuits and from things that other more successful entrepreneurs have taught me. These tips will help you with whatever specific goals you have for being part of the New Economy.
In order to really thrive, you have to stand out. You can’t just coast by being “average” anymore. You have to be excellent. People want to connect with people doing amazing things, so the best way to find security is to take risks. Walk the edges, be bold, be brazen. The best safety net is not needing one.
Jonathan Mead, Illuminated Mind *
