Q: I’m a broker and recently went into business for myself. I have some referral partners on board, get a good amount of leads, and convert well, but I just can’t stop myself getting scared that I’ll fail and lose everything. How can I stop this feeling?
What you’ve described is normal; even the most seasoned brokers have moments where a lost deal can kick off negative thinking and see them tumble down a rabbit hole of doom. But just because a thought pops into your mind doesn’t mean that it’s true or even a likely outcome.
While you can’t stop the feeling, you can learn to challenge its validity.
Start by asking yourself: how do I determine if what I’m imagining is probable or merely possible?
You’ll need to look for evidence to check this.
Revisit the KPIs outlined in your business plan. Take an honest look at your progress – and your effort – to date:
- Are you hitting your targets?
- If not, what would you need to do to get there?
And now, with a deeper perspective of what the industry actually looks like:
- How realistic were your expectations?
- Did you anticipate more leads or higher conversion rates?
- Are there some adjustments that need to be made?
Choosing to start your own business requires a supreme level of courage and self-belief, but you also need a solid plan and sustained effort. The first few years are incredibly challenging and demand a depth of resilience many people underestimate.
Negative thoughts, with their insidious potency, can easily derail progress. That’s why it’s critical to develop a support network: to hold you accountable and on track, lift you up when you feel down, and celebrate your wins.
Have a question for our expert psychotherapist Bronwyn Penhaligon? Send your questions to [email protected].
Or if you feel you need more support, you can visit penhaligons.com.au to schedule a one-on-one appointment.
Bronwyn Penhaligon
Strategic psychotherapist
Penhaligon Applied Psychology
