90 in 90: Ivan Thomas, DE.TV

Believe in yourself and your vision and forget the naysayers
As a business owner, it can be easy to doubt yourself and your abilities, especially when facing challenges or setbacks. However, it is crucial to have confidence in yourself and your vision for your business. One way to boost your self-confidence is to continue to build on your past successes and the progress you’ve already made. Additionally, try to surround yourself with people who believe in you and your business while seeking out mentors or advisors who can provide guidance and support.

DE.TV Founder Ivan Thomas

Stay focused and stalk your goals
Running a business can be demanding, and it can be easy to get sidetracked or overwhelmed. To stay on track, set clear and specific goals for yourself and your business. Break down large goals into smaller, more manageable tasks and plan to accomplish them. Keep your goals in mind and remind yourself of them regularly and take time to celebrate your progress and accomplishments.

Surround yourself with a robust support system
A strong support network of mentors, advisors and like-minded individuals can provide valuable guidance, advice, and inspiration. Joining a business association or networking group can also be a great way to connect with other entrepreneurs and build relationships and a supportive network.

Be willing to take calculated risks
Starting a business is inherently risky, and it takes courage to put yourself out there and take a chance. However, it’s important to remember that calculated risks can lead to big rewards. Before taking a risk, research and ensure you have a solid plan. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help or advice from others and prepare yourself for the worst-case scenarios. 

Adapt or die
The business world is constantly changing, and it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve. Invest in ongoing education and professional development to stay current on industry trends and best practices. Keep an open mind and be willing to try new things and explore new opportunities. Be open to feedback and constructive criticism and use it to improve and grow your business.

Treat your customers and employees with respect and fairness
Your customers and employees are the backbones of your business, and it’s essential to treat them with respect and fairness. Ensure your employees are well-trained, compensated fairly, and treated with respect. Show your customers that you value their business by providing excellent customer service and being responsive to their needs.

Stay organized and keep accurate records
Running a business can be chaotic, and it’s easy to get bogged down in the details. Stay organized by setting up a system for tracking expenses, invoicing, and other important financial tasks. Keep accurate records, and make sure all your financial information is up-to-date and easily accessible. Incorporating a process will help you stay on top of your finances and make intelligent business decisions.

Be open to new ideas and perspectives
As a business owner, it’s imperative to be open to new ideas and perspectives. Be willing to listen to feedback and consider new approaches to running your business. Encourage creativity and innovation among your employees and be open to their ideas. Stay informed about industry trends and be open to new technologies and methods.

Maintain a positive attitude
Running a business can be stressful and being discouraged is easy. However, maintaining a positive attitude is critical to success and work culture morale. Stay focused on your goals and remind yourself of your progress. Surround yourself with positive people and seek out support when you need it. Take time for yourself and your family and do things that bring you joy; life balance is essential. 

Always be willing

Ivan Thomas is the founder of DE.TV.