It’s a common scenario: you’re on the verge of pursuing a dream, and suddenly, friends, family, and neighbors emerge, ready to highlight all the potential dangers. This phenomenon stems from what can be called the “Get By Rule.” Consider this: if you needed $1,500 to cover bills and feed your family during a tough time, a friend or relative would likely offer assistance without hesitation, happy to help you ‘get by’. Charity provides a sense of satisfaction, a feeling of being in a more secure position. However, ask that same person for $1,500 to launch a business, and you’ll likely encounter a barrage of reasons why it’s a bad idea. They might share stories of failure, emphasize the difficulty of success, and generally attempt to dissuade you. Why the difference? Because while they’re comfortable helping you ‘get by,’ they’re often unwilling to support something that might allow you to ‘pass them by.’
This concept became clear after listening to Caroline Myss’ “Invisible Acts of Power.” A key differentiator between successful individuals and those who never take chances is the conscious decision to move forward, irrespective of others’ opinions. My personal success has grown by carefully selecting from whom I accept advice. When someone offers guidance, I evaluate their own results in that specific area of life. If someone wants to provide financial or business advice, I examine their own financial and business achievements before considering their input. For instance, I wouldn’t seek investment advice from someone with no real estate experience or business advice from someone who is struggling financially.
As you venture into entrepreneurship, define your goals and pursue them relentlessly. Don’t let well-meaning acquaintances hold you back. Many people struggle in MLM because they primarily target their immediate circle—often a source of negativity and doubt. While overcoming this skepticism can be profitable, relying solely on this approach can be detrimental. When choosing a business opportunity, prioritize companies with robust systems and marketing plans that teach you how to effectively attract interested prospects through various channels. And, ironically, if you need to borrow money to start your venture, consider asking for help with your immediate bills and using the freed-up funds to invest in your future!