Recently I had a good idea - to start an entrepreneurs club where everyone is welcome. A place where amateurs and professionals alike can meet and discuss their ideas. A place where everyone is welcome, no idea is too small, and creativity flows. I was so excited about this club, that I sent out the information far and wide. Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn - you name it, I've used it. And the response has been overwhelming - from all four corners of the earth. I have had people say 'Yes, this is great! When can we start?" I have had interest from America, England, South Africa and of course New Zealand. I have struck up conversation with people I don't know, people in the neighbourhood, at the shops - and their response has been "What are the details? I'd love to come!"
Except one person. Without going into details, I had seriously tough feedback from someone who obviously thought I was some kind of threat. After a frank and at times painful conversation about my idea - I was told that I was doing more damage than good with it. Very confusing and harsh words, but that is how the conversation went. After ending the phone call (amicably of course) I re-examined my motives, went back to the 'base plan' and wondered if I was on the right track? Wondered if maybe they were right? But slowly and surely , step by step, I realised that I was. That the idea is a good one, the thinking behind it is creative, supportive, uplifting. The feedback has been nearly unanimous. One tough conversation does not take away from a good idea.
What I really learnt was that I have to take the good with the bad. Often from conversations like this one that I had, you learn and grow stronger. I am grateful for this one particular conversation - even though it made me take a step back and re-examine my thinking, it made me more resolute, more passionate and more focused. I took the good points out of the conversation and threw away the bad.
No matter what the situation is, there is ALWAYS going to be that one person who ruins our mojo. Sometimes it is even someone who is close to us. This is a pity, as I know from personal experience sometimes it gets the better of you. But if you are able to push past it then that's what matters.
ReplyDeleteVery true - and as we learn and grow we are able to take these 'speed bumps' in our stride a bit more easily each time. Support from family, friends and others is often what helps the most when you face criticism. Plus (like you've mentioned) a strong belief in yourself, knowing that you are adding value and a true passion for what you are doing!
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