My Biggest Business Mistakes

In the journey of entrepreneurship, mistakes are inevitable. They're not just stumbling blocks, but stepping stones to success.
And in the spirit of being authentic I am sharing my fails with you. 

Not to dwell on the past, but to share the lessons learned. Each mistake has been crucial to my growth as a business owner.

Ignoring the Importance of Formal Agreements
Fail: Not making my staff sign their service agreements.
Lesson: This oversight led to a shocking revelation – they were setting up a competing business.

Underestimating the Power of Documentation
Fail: I didn't maintain proper documentation for processes. Lesson: This lack of guidance created inconsistency and confusion. Documentation is key to maintaining standards.

Overlooking Workplace Culture
Fail: Allowing drinking on business premises.
Lesson: This leniency compromised professionalism and safety. I mean what was the message I was sending to the staff and the members? 

Losing My Business Vision
Fail: Letting others dictate how to run my business.
Lesson: It's important to listen to advice, but ultimately, staying true to your vision is what leads to success. Trust yourself and don't feel bad about it! 

Communication Breakdown
Fail: No official channels of communication.
Lesson: Effective communication is the backbone of any successful team. Implementing official communication channels is non-negotiable.

Accepting Disrespect
Fail: Tolerating poor treatment from a staff member.
Lesson: Respect is a two-way street. Fostering a respectful work environment is crucial for morale and productivity. Parking lot talk can ruin a business. 

Fear of Sharing Success
Fail: Hesitation to share my accomplishments.
Lesson: Celebrating and sharing my successes can boost morale and inspire your team. Don't shy away from acknowledging achievements. At the same time help them achieve the same things. 

Oversight in Management
Fail: A staff member was canceling gym memberships without detection.
Lesson: Regular audits and oversight are necessary to prevent fraud and errors. Trust, but verify!

Neglecting Workplace Gossip
Fail: Allowing negative talk about staff in the parking lot.
Lesson: Addressing and curbing gossip is essential to maintaining a positive and supportive environment. Call people out when they are doing it! 

Misjudging Loyalty
Fail: Believing that those who spoke ill of others wouldn't do the same to me.
Lesson: Be cautious about whom you trust. People's actions towards others are often a reflection of their character and how they will treat you too! 

Each of these failures has been a hard-earned lesson in my business journey. The key is not to avoid mistakes – that's impossible – but to learn from them and evolve. 

I would love to hear about your business fails! 
Email me back.

Ash