52 RULES FOR STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS. (Part 1)

Zero. That’s how many people I could ask for business advice. I had no idea what I was doing. 7 years later, I’m proud of what I’ve built, I love the employees I hire, and what we create. I hope this helps you to get closer to build something you’re proud of.

Is entrepreneurship for everyone? No - it’s hard and lonely and hard and lonely. And hard.
How do I know if I should be an entrepreneur? If the thought of working for someone else makes you sick to your stomach.
When can I tell people I am an entrepreneur? When you are making money on your idea. You are not an entrepreneur the day you put it on your Instagram profile. You are an entrepreneur when you make money on your idea.
What is idea sex? Taking 4 passions and turning them into 1 business idea. If you love yoga, the beach, retreats, and being a single mom - start a yoga retreat on the beach for single moms and their kids. Boom!
Should I take venture capital funding? Maybe - but just know this, when someone invests in your business, you have a boss and you are in a marriage.
What’s the easiest way to get venture capitalists to pay attention to me? Build something that sells, and then show them the data.
What do venture capitalists look at before offering investment money? Data regarding sales and traction (thus the prior answer) and you - if they don’t like you, they’ll never invest in you.
What’s more important to an investor - me or my idea? You. The idea will probably change 100 times. If you suck, they won’t care how good the idea is.
Should I build a personal brand? Yes
How do I know how to charge for my product? Look at the market. Then charge a little less. Then overdeliver. Then every year charge more. Pricing is totally made up.
When should I raise my prices? As often as people will say yes to your new price. Note - I said people, not a person. Try asking 100 people for the higher price. If they all say no, stick with your ongoing rate. But someone will likely say yes. Be patient and bold.
Should I speak in public about my business? Yes. As much as you can. And then sell from the stage. Let people know what you offer as clearly as possible.
Should I give free speeches at the beginning: Yes. I did free speeches for 18 months, and it was the best decision I made. I make good money as a speaker now.

My romantic partner doesn’t want me to start a business, what should I do? Leave your partner or don’t start the business.
How do I find my passion? If you are asking that, you don’t have one. Just do something you enjoy. Passion is subjective. And it changes a lot. Enjoy them all.
How can I find clients? First, talk to every one of your friends and family members. Then do a great job for the clients you get. Then ask your clients to refer other people to you. Then ask your family and friends again. Rinse. Repeat.
What’s the best way to keep my clients happy? Do everything they want. go to their kids birthday parties, provide longer videos than promised, answer their emails at midnight.
But what about clients that invade my boundaries? You own a business. There are no more boundaries.
What if I don’t want to work on weekends? Don’t - it’s your business.
Should I hire a “head of sales”: Never - if you are not selling your product, you have no shot. At least in the beginning, you are the head of everything.
Can I have a romantic relationship with my employees? If you think there is a high chance you will marry that person, sure. If not, no.