If it was easy, everyone would do it.

Finding the will power and organization to get it all done is tough.  You may be an expert in your profession but don't forget you won't necessarily be an expert in all areas of running a business.  Luckily, you don't need to be...

Here are 3 skills you will need to get it all done.  

1.  Follow through:  Some would say organization is top of the must have list, but I would argue that there is no organization without follow through.  You must be prepared to execute immediately small tasks because there will be a deluge of them.  Piling up paperwork or retuning phone calls in a busy office with little help just won't do...you've got to be a master of the immediate and complete cycle of tasks or being an entrepreneur will easily be overwhelming.  

2.  Bravery:  Bravery means having courageous behavior or character.  Display of courageous behavior does not mean there is no doubt, fear, or uncertainty, it just means your behavior and character display bravery.  While there is no substitute for the hard work that carries your business forward or the expertise required in your field you have to have the courageous behavior and character to work through all of that and lead your entrepreneurial endeavor or business.

3.  Confidence:  Entrepreneurs and small business are a huge portion of the economy, even companies like Apple, Amazon and Disney all started in garages.  Whether you intend on starting the next corporate giant, or just work for yourself in a small professional group the confidence and wherewithal to keep going when others give up or make excuses is key.  Confidence will give you the steam you need to work through problems that arise without quitting.  Confidence will give you the drive to sell your ideas and yourself to the right people.  Finally, confidence will help you carry your feet one foot in front of the other while you knock on the doors to grow your business.

What if the age old saying - If you build it, they will come - doesn't work?

What happens if the old saying is wrong?  What if you pour your heart and money into your new business and no customers line up?  Hang in there and borrow money from everyone you know till it turns around?  Close up shop, give up and get a job?  Hire a few sign holders to dance on the corner?

It turns out owning a business is more than just a great idea.  It's more that just a stellar product.  It's more that just a winning look.  Owning a small business is not for the faint of heart.  It takes a bit of grit, a lot of creativity, but mostly sweat.  Yes, not what most people want to hear.  It will take many hours of doing things you don't like for a little bit of satisfaction when what you love works. 

Here are 3 ideas to get you on track:

1. Network in Person:  Social media, websites, blogs and business profile pages are essential but don't let those replace the real social networks, meeting people face to face.  Go out to meet the business owners in your community.  You can introduce yourself to businesses in your town.  Take advantage of the local chamber of commerce after hours mixers and business lunches.  Visit your clients if you are a service or meet the locals for a community retail business.  The more the clients like you the more they will support you in your business.
2. Give your family and friends a shout:  Don't expect your family and friends to be your only client base but be sure to keep them in touch with what you are doing.  Keep your friends and family apprised of your achievements, works, new products and clients and let them know you appreciate and follow up with their referrals.  Be sure to take the utmost follow through and good work ethic with personal referrals.  It's the most important type of advertising.
3. Showcase: Be sure to put your best foot forward and put photos or stories about your work on media, in your store and in your sales presentation.  Your best work will sell itself.  If people see enough of your portfolio, product list or great ideas that have helped your clients they will be back for more.  Be patient, do good work and represent you and your clients well.