The Determination Factor

Wednesday, July 11, 2007 at 03:10pm by Gina Laverde in Bootstrapping

Are you running your business on a shoe-string budget, with a crappy computer and recycled office supplies? I am. And, the thought occurred to me yesterday as I shifted my lap-top screen on its broken hinge – that I couldn’t have it any other way.

I wasn’t raised poor – but we had no money. I fought for the right to go to the college of my choice. I applied for scholarships and loans, and I worked my way through the expenses. Many times, I had to watch friends go out to clubs and dinners that I couldn’t afford. But, the experience of having so little money really fueled my fire.

Coming from a background where riches were scarce taught me to rely on my brain, my ambition and my creativity. But that’s not it. My senses have been heightened, my awareness and acceptance of others has grown, and my determination to succeed has multiplied. I am this determined because I have not been given much material substance to start or maintain my business.

It’s great to have investors, and it takes talent to get them. It’s awesome to come from money and have the help of family. And, a hefty bank account full of your life’s earnings would sure make a great difference in the start of your business. But none of these things are necessary.

Sometimes, like in my case, the lack of these things gives us enough determination to really succeed. And, those of us who are not blessed with monetary support may actually have been blessed with the ability to become more resourceful – and in the end better business people.

When you’re playing this game without the bank on your side you will need to be extra critical of your own decisions. Your purchases should be carefully budgeted. And, you should connect with some helpful young entrepreneurs like yourself, and share resources. When determination is high – you can go many places, but you can go even further with the help of others.

Forget the high-end tech gadgets, and focus on a step by step plan to reaching your goals. You don’t need all of the stuff that other entrepreneurs are using in their businesses.

You know where you want to be, and you even know how to get there. But, as soon as you allow your finances to frustrate you – you will begin to fail. So, write out all of your goals, but complete them one at a time.

Your struggles are a test of your determination. Conquer them and you will last as an entrepreneur.

2 Comments

Leave a Comment