Hello Reader,
I've been doing a lot of work behind the scenes on my own business (which has a habit of getting a bit "unwieldy" if I don't keep tabs on it) as well as working on some personal projects, and so this year I've researched a lot of different professionals, resources, and the like.
In doing so, I have also reflected on what makes me feel "certain-ish" about my decisions vs uncertain. Funny, it's basically the same stuff that I'd consider "warning signs" when I talk to potential clients about working with me (it's wild how the works, right?).
So, if you're considering moving forward with a project that's got some level of risk involved (cost, time, stress, etc), here are some warning signs to keep an eye out for that should give you a nudge to pause and consider if you're really ready.
- You have to get lots of "bids." Absolutely do your homework about budget, timeframe, scope, and all that fun stuff. However, do initial research and narrow your list of professionals, programs, or other support down to no more than three. (Two is even better!) This is because too many options can quickly devolve into overwhelm and "too many cooks" syndrome.
I'm going to be a smidgen controversial and say that if you feel the need to talk to a whole bunch of pros or consider a large number of programs, a better course of action would be to book a one time paid call with someone to help you get clear on your best next steps.
I remember years ago when we were looking at improving the comfort of our fixer upper house and one of the contractors we approached suggested a smaller paid "first steps" option (an audit) instead of an evaluation and proposal and I was so grateful! We actually made difference decisions because we had the information we needed AND we didn't waste a bunch of contractors' time getting quotes for the wrong thing.
- Your answer to why now is "it's time." When I had a team that was producing a lot of websites, I'd always ask potential clients why they felt now was the time to create a new website. A whole lot of the time the answer was "well, it's time." Hindsight is 20/20 but in retrospect, I now realize those were the projects that had the most sticky situations and challenges in decision-making.
Now, it's a question I ask myself all the time, "Why now?" Sometimes I have the terrible answer of "It's time," but now I'm wiser (and, ahem, older), and know I need to do more thinking and potentially adjust my timing and priorities.
Another anecdote: I often tell folks interested in working with me on a bigger content strategy project who are also newer in business that we take baby steps if it feels like "now is the time." This is because I know from experience oftentimes there are other things that need to be done to make it "really" the time! I used this on myself earlier this year when I wanted to run full speed ahead because I felt antsy, like I needed to do the thing now, when later actually made more sense because I would be better prepared for success in the fall.
- You're choosing between two very disparate things. Another common warning sign is when folks are choosing between two very different actions. Do you file a trademark or buy an SEO course? Do you join a business coaching program or hire a bookkeeper?
Believe it or not, this is incredibly common! A business friend and I were recently talking about how both of us frequently have leads who are deciding between two starkly contrasting actions and how we frequently see these folks actually be "un-ready" for both options.
This is completely okay! Sometimes no action is the best action—I know I've made that choice as well.
Obviously, the other side of this is that if you confidently identify the right pros, why now if the right time, and know you're headed in the right general direction with your next best step, you should feel pretty awesome about your business decision making. Will there be bumps? Probably, because you're a human! But it's bound to be a lot easier when it's the right thing at the right time.
Warmly,
Sarah
P.S. I have added a "Buy Me a Coffee" option to this newsletter. I've had a couple people ask, and while it feels weird, it's very sweet that folks want to say thank you (but please don't feel obligated)!