Muse Group Has Been in Business for 8 Years, 96 Months and 2,922 days! 

Some days, it feels like Muse just started yesterday. Then, on other days, it’s like it’s been 100 years! I wouldn’t trade it for anything. But, if I knew these eight lessons I’ve learned in eight years of owning Muse Group, I would probably go back and do a few things differently. Hopefully it helps others to not make the same mistakes and to take the leap because, in the end, owning a business is completely worth it! 

1. Make sure you love what you do.

I’m sure you hear this one a lot, but you shouldn’t start a business simply because it seems sexy, or you think you’ll make a lot of money. Do what you love. It’s not only important to create a profitable business, but it’s also important that you’re happy managing and growing it day in and day out. If your heart isn’t in it, you won’t be successful.

2. Free yourself from trying to “look good” and “get it all right.” 

You’re going to mess up! Cat’s out of the bag. Accept that, don’t worry about the judgment of others, and move on. 

3. Stay healthy.

I’m not your mom, but nevertheless, I promise that you will be much more productive when you take better care of yourself. Entrepreneurship is a lifestyle, not an 8-to-5 profession. Working to the point of exhaustion will burn you out and make you less productive (trust me I know from experience). Don’t make excuses. Eat right, meditate, exercise and find time for yourself.

4. Don’t B.S.

Don’t talk the talk unless you can walk the walk. Under promise, over deliver, not the other way around.

5. Delegate. 

Your team is there to help you. Let them! Having the ability to delegate is what gives you the energy to do your job. It’s the only way out of not working 16-hour days! Learn to delegate, not because it’s a nice idea, but because it’s essential to growth.

6. Focus. Focus.

Many entrepreneurs feel the need to jump at every “opportunity” they come across. Do one thing perfectly, not ten things poorly.

7. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Asking questions and reaching out to colleagues are the keys to helping you learn and improve. This is NOT a weakness.

8. Learn from your mistakes.

No business book or business plan can predict the future or fully prepare you to become a successful entrepreneur (man, I wish it did). There is no such thing as the perfect plan. There is no impeccable road or one less traveled. The most important thing you can do is learn from your mistakes–and never make the same mistake twice.