Family, friends should not influence business ideas

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By Julius Sengendo

Whether you are thinking of taking the entrepreneurial path or have already stepped foot into these gorgeous, albeit at times rocky waters, chances are you have encountered criticism.

Skeptical comments from friends and family can be extremely disheartening.

When I first communicated with my wife (one of the most open-minded and encouraging people I know) that I wanted to start another type of business, she was supportive.

However, I vividly remember a conversation during which she warned me about the risk of failure and that, perhaps, I should prepare for that. I was particularly struck by the fact that many business ideas can be crippled by those closest to us.

This brings me to the tips on which stance to take when confronted with criticism:

1. Be empathetic about where your loved ones are coming from Most of the time, critical warnings against taking courageous new steps professionally spring out of a mixture of love and fear. Your family and friends love you.

They care about you. They do not want you to get hurt or confront disillusionment with your own dreams. Make it a point to see the origin behind ‘warnings’ once you acknowledge the source of a comment that appears disheartening to you, it is much easier to discern it.

2. Learn to discern You should have two words framed across the wall, one reading: sovereignity; the other discernment. If you are stepping out of the status quo (which is, of course, what you are doing by creating rather than adapting), you have to stand in your own power just as much as you have to practise to discern what does not support it. Do not worry – you will have ample opportunity to practise; embrace it.

3. Nurture thyself as you desire to be nurtured What you desire from others is always what you actually need from yourself. There is a reason why you want your respected colleague to say she thinks you have got a great idea on your hands. Because there is a small part of you that fears you do not, look at it from new angles until you can give yourself the validation you crave.

So you want to be applauded for your courage to take a professional leap? Applaud yourself. You believe your news should be received with open arms and ears? Identify the areas within yourself that are still unhealed and need your own support.

You are the missing puzzle piece you have been waiting for. It is time to show up for you.


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