What We Are: OWNERS
Hmmmm-to those of you that actually own a business you much be saying, "DUH!" right about now! What I'm finding is that this series of posts, entitled "What We Are", is more about entrepreneurial mindset that the actual act of owning an entrepreneurial enterprise. So, someone could very well be reading this and NOT be a business owner. YET, we are all "owners"!
Let me 'splain! Do you have an idea? If so, you OWN it. Have you invented something? You OWN it. Have you started a business? Then you're an owner. Have you bought a franchise? Owner. Have you made a relationship? You own that too. Have you ever made a decision? OWNER! Have you hit a home run? Great job-own it! Have you made a mistake? OWNER!
Oops, I slipped that last one in on you, didn't I?
Yup, as entrepreneurs, we OWN our ideas, businesses, relationships, decisions, triumphs and even our mistakes. It's part of being accountable. Part of being a leader. Part of becoming better. In short, by owning our decisions, including our mistakes, we continue to evolve, to become better, to gain more experience and to build on that experience for future success.
What does it take to truly OWN your decisions? First, there's a level of self-awareness that is required. This type of awareness isn't easy at first. Turning our eyes inward is not a favorite practice but it is a practice that you can perfect. Simply get in the habit of examining your decisions, asking:
- What was my role in the outcome, good or bad?
- What would others say?
- What did I learn from this experience?
- What can I change next time?
Second, I've found that adopting transparency and authenticity are critical to owning my decisions. If others see what and why I do things then it's easy for me to take responsibility. Let me warn you: this is hard. It's probably the most difficult part of leadership for me and for many others that I know. I've written before about my "code of armor". Transparency and authenticity are part of that code. It's both what makes me vulnerable and protects me at the same time. Ask yourself
- What's important?
- What are you willing to reveal?
- What needs to stay hidden at all costs?
- Who are you? Really.
Finally, have an accountability system in place. You'll find this an easy practice in a community. Surrounding yourself with people that will not only support you but also question you, expect things from you, and....return the favor is a well documented success practice. Need more convincing-read Community, the Structure of Belonging by Peter Block, Tribes by Seth Godin or Making Ideas Happen by Scott Belsky for starters!
Becoming an owner is a responsibility and a privilege. It doesn't matter whether it's a house, a business or an idea. As you develop your entrepreneurial approach think about your responsibilities as owner and ENJOY the privilege!
Are you ready to step up to ownership?
Say YES!
To your success,
Peg Stookey
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