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08/07/2024

Marlene Powell - Cutting through the B*S* - the reality check every business owner needs on when to cut your losses

Entrepreneurship is an unpredictable journey filled with ambitious goals and relentless pursuits. Yet, a harsh truth often overlooked is the gap between facts and assumptions. Here are my seven key actions for cutting through the BS and knowing when to cut your losses:

1. Face the Facts, Not Assumptions
Assumptions can derail any business. Confront the hard truths about your data, market trends, and customer feedback. Embrace reality, as it’s the only solid foundation for successful decisions.

2. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity
Failure is not the end but a stepping stone to success. Extract valuable lessons from setbacks. Every failure is an opportunity to refine strategies, innovate, and grow stronger. Remember, FAIL stands for First Attempt In Learning.

3. Cut the Emotional Attachments
Your business is not your baby; it’s a separate entity. Don’t let emotional attachments cloud your
judgment. If a project, product, or partnership isn’t yielding results, muster the courage to let it go.
Redirect resources toward more promising opportunities.

4. Prioritise Profitability Over Pride
Avoid chasing flashy objects that drain resources. Focus on ventures that promise profitability and contribute to your bottom line. Prioritise results over feel-goods; if it doesn’t provide a return on investment, it’s not worth your time.

5. Adapt to Thrive
In today’s fast-paced business environment, adaptability is crucial. Stay vigilant, monitor market shifts, and be ready to pivot when necessary. Embrace change and innovate relentlessly to stay ahead of the curve.

6. Surround Yourself with Truth Tellers
Don’t be the smartest person in the room. Avoid environments where your opinions are constantly reinforced. Surround yourself with a C.A.R.E. (Community, Accountability, Results, Education) ecosystem. Seek diverse perspectives, encourage constructive criticism, and cultivate transparency within your organisation.

7. Stay Grounded by Your Purpose
Amidst business chaos, never lose sight of your purpose. What drives you and your business?
What impact do you aspire to make? Stay grounded in your values and let them guide your decisions. A clear sense of purpose keeps you focused and inspires others to rally behind your cause.

Navigating the harsh realities of business requires resilience and grace. By facing facts, learning from failures and, prioritising profitability, entrepreneurs can overcome challenges. Cut the losses, embrace truths that propel you forward, and let reality be your greatest ally. Your business is your current investment, future retirement, and lasting legacy.

Scan the QR code below to book a ten-minute call with me when you are ready to cut your losses but just don’t know how.

Contact me on, https://linkshare.co.za/marlenepowell or call +27 (0)83 479 4471

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 Marlene Powell Cutting through the BS.pdf


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