Running a business as a woman in Nigeria is no small feat. Here are some mistakes to avoid as a female entrepreneur, according to Oluremi Martins, Founder and Chief Experience Officer of Natural Girl Wigs.
1. Don’t be a Know-It-All
Women are often excluded from the workspace, which means that even as a business owner, your exposure in your industry might be limited. Don’t assume you know it all. Go out of your way to learn new things and hire people that are smarter than you.
2. Don’t mix business money with personal money
This is a more common theme with small businesses and because of the patriarchal society we live in, many women see their business as a means to solely support their families. It’s important to separate your business finances from your personal finances. The business itself is an entity and you want that entity to be able to survive on its own.
3. Don’t let overthinking stop you
Many people don’t start because they’re anxious. When I get anxious about something, I think about the upside vs downside of the issue. If the benefits from the upside outweigh the consequences of the downside, I go for it.
4. Don’t be afraid of rejection
I often shrivel when I get some form of rejection, but I remember that I am not the only one being rejected. Don’t let rejection stop you.
5. Don’t overwork yourself
Learn to make rest a part of your life. Also, try to manage your anxiety around your business. There’s this saying in Yoruba, “Work doesn’t kill, it’s anxiousness and worry that kills.” Do things that soothe and energize you as often as you can. Running a business is one hell of a journey. Be ready for the ride.
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