A week or two ago, a surprising alert popped up on my LinkedIn profile that J Group Consulting had been running for a year. With the days and months flying past I had very rarely given myself time to stop and reflect on how far it has come in such a short time. As someone who took the leap to start their own business, I understand how daunting it can be to contemplate the idea. That's why I wanted to share some of the valuable insights, lessons, and takeaways I've gained from this experience with anyone else who might be considering taking the same leap, while giving myself the headspace to reflect.

Lesson 1: The Business Rollercoaster - Resiliency

Starting a business is like getting on a rollercoaster. You experience exhilarating highs and heart-stopping lows in quick succession. One moment you're receiving positive feedback from a client, and the next, a lead goes quiet. But the key is to remain resilient and accept that these ups and downs are part of the game. As the saying goes, "bad times - these too shall pass, good times - these too shall pass." So if you're considering starting your own business, prepare yourself mentally for the ride and remember that resilience is key.

Lesson 2: Network, Network, Network

Another key learning for me through this experience, has been the importance of networking. Over the years, people emphasise the need to maintain a good network, but it was not something I have placed too much focus on prior, but the importance of networking cannot be overstated. Maintaining a good network can open up opportunities, offer validation of your ideas and provide valuable insights into the industry.

So, don't be afraid to reach out to people. Click that connect button on LinkedIn or send that email to spark a conversation. You never know where it might lead.

Lesson 3: Let it Go: The Art of Delegating and Trusting Your Team

Having cultured every aspect of the company from its values to branding to the smaller details of company colours, this is my 'work baby' that I have been living and breathing for well over the year it has been established. To then allow this out into the world and have others represent it, take control of certain aspects, or even provide their own creative ideas to it - can be very stressful. But it is learning the need to trust and follow one my daughter's favourite Disney princess' (that thanks to Covid is now engrained into our brain), "Let it go! Let it go!". By not following these wise words from Elsa, there is the potential to limit the growth of the company and increase your chances of burning out. Trusting others to take on tasks and responsibilities can free up your time and energy, and also help the business grow. The key is to make sure you're delegating to the right people and trusting them to work autonomously.

Final Thought

If someone said to me that just in a year that I would have become a partner of CyberArk, have a team of experienced and loyal people, serving multiple customers across Australia, I would not have believed it; but that is where we are today. Reflecting on the past year, we're proud of what we've accomplished and grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the world of identity and cyber security. We're excited to continue serving and collaborating with our current & future clients and I cannot wait to see what the next year holds and where this may take us!

Key Takeaways:

Here are some key takeaways from the lessons shared:

1. Starting a business is a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs.
2. Resiliency is key to surviving the journey.
3. Networking is essential for any business.
4. Trust your team and let them take control of certain aspects of the business.
5. Don't forget to enjoy the ride!

I hope this was interesting, helpful or something that people would take to more of. If you wanted to ever reach out to bounce ideas off of someone, connect or just chat - reach out!

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