Strategies: Running a business can be quite a rush
— -- About this time of year, schoolchildren write essays on "What I did on my summer vacation." I figured I'd do the same, especially as one highlight of my summer provides insight on being a successful entrepreneur. I went white-water river rafting on the Upper Klamath River in Oregon. Woo-hoo!
White-water river rafting is a scary and exciting experience — much like running your own business. This year, I was fortunate to be invited to join a great group of women who go white-water rafting every year. They're a terrific bunch — interesting, successful, and fairly fearless. Perhaps that's why they're successful.
I've been river rafting before, but never on such challenging waters. The danger of white-water rivers are rated by classification system: from class I (you can take a small child) to class VI (only the luckiest survive). I had been on class II to III rapids before. But this time, I was on class IV+. That's a whole different story. And, I can't lie, I was scared!
While I was on the river (and not paddling like crazy or praying I'd make it through the next rapid), I had time to think of the many parallels white-water rafting has to being an entrepreneur. As you're navigating the challenges in your business, remember some of these white-water rafting lessons that apply:
1. Choose the right one for you. White water can be very dangerous, so you've got to choose the right river for your skill and comfort level. The same is true when selecting a business or a new product line or project. Don't try a class V river your first time (or perhaps ever). So, too, choose the right size and type of business for your experience, interests, finances. Do your homework first!
2. Find a great guide. Never go it alone! My group used a well-established outfitter (Noah's from Ashland, Ore.), and we had a terrific guide, Matt, who was very experienced navigating the river. Get a business guide: Find a mentor, consultant, or other entrepreneurs who understand your industry to help you navigate your way through the rocks and waves.
