Not too long ago, I asked this question on Facebook:
How do you handle business advice? Add a comment above.
When I created Lifestyle Zen, it was because:
- I wanted to create a business centered around my passions. Supporting small biz. Creativity. Balance. Going big. Making a difference.
- I wanted to create a law firm that allowed me to deliver legal services in the way that I thought was best for the group of peeps that I wanted to serve and not according to some pre-determined model.
- I wanted to create a business that allowed me to live the lifestyle that I wanted.
Then, I started to figure out how I could use this business built upon my passions to deliver something of value to others.
In order to create a life from a passion-filled business we have to deliver something that peeps will pay for.
The reality is that sometimes when we get knee-deep in the nitty gritty of our creative-dream business it becomes our core. And, that makes it pretty darn difficult to receive feedback from anyone.
But, you must remember that in order to run a sustainable passion-filled business…one that actually allows you to create the life that you desire….
Get over yourself. Tuck your pride in your back pocket and listen.
I’m not saying that you have to enter change- or implement- mode every time someone offers constructive criticism. I am saying that you should hear them out, at least. This is what I do when someone shares insight on my biz:
- Listen and try to ascertain the intention behind the feedback. Is this someone who is generally supportive of me? Does it seem to come from a positive place? Do they even have a business?
- Write down the suggestion. I have a running list of pointers/tips/feedback that folks give me. Sometimes it’s difficult for me to process information in the moment (maybe, I was being sensitive, or whatever), but I at least want to revisit it when I am outside of my emotion.
- Filter the feedback and implement what makes sense. At the end of the day, some aspects of your business development are largely subjective. Some things that make sense for others, won’t for you. Implement what makes sense for you and keep that list to refer back to at a later time.
- THANK the person who offered the feedback to you. At the end of the day, you want people who care to feel comfortable giving you tips on ways to improve. If you shut them down, you will operate in silo and never be able to take things to the next level.
That’s it geniuses.
Have you received my free legal cheat sheet for creative entrepreneurs? Access it here.
photo credit: steven shorrock