This is where you blossom.

Every person has something to offer. Whether they have just launched this dream they’ve had buried deep inside their brain for decades, or if they are a seasoned entrepreneur that wears their business journey like a second skin. In particular, I love hearing from those who have just jumped with both feet into this new world of ownership. They’re passionate, it’s new and exciting. The lessons are fresh, and sometimes those of us who’ve been grinding it out for some time have forgotten what it’s like.

So then why is it important to hear from the green voices, the ones who haven’t had as many challenges under their belt? Well, there is a lesson in it all. Either the comparison draws out the appreciation and gratefulness that you have made it past those bumps, or what you’re hearing is a fresh new perspective that’s possibly observing something you’ve missed along the way. Perhaps they found a better way to get it done - something quicker and more efficient.

Pride is the ultimate enemy when you are growing a business. It’s hard to learn from someone with less experience. It’s also hard to ask for help, to admit you don’t know something, or even to partner with someone who you might have considered a …competitor. I’m of the belief that we all have something different and unique to offer. I believe that we attract those to whom we are the best fit. And I believe that there is enough business out there for us all, just like there’s endless knowledge from even the newest of business youngsters.

I started writing this to initiate the art of sharing knowledge and resources, as a filler or a jumping off point, but what I just realized as the words evolved, is that pride is a challenge we face at every stage in many forms, and even I still struggle with it now somewhere beneath the surface.

How might your pride be keeping you from growing?