So, you've decided that entrepreneurship is your way of life.
You're going to own a startup! Congratulations! But, let's face it, not everyone is cut out to be an entrepreneur.
For those who choose this path, it can be a difficult and sometimes lengthy journey - and that's just getting started - and not with the startup itself.
One of the pitfalls that many of us have faced is the reaction of our friends and family who just don't understand why we have chosen what many consider to be "an alternative lifestyle".
After numerous discussions over the years with dozens of fellow entrepreneurs, these are some of the things to know about this part of your journey.
Here are some things to be aware of when you "break the news" to them: 1.
This can be an emotional process - Especially for your family, doubly so if you haven't talked about this with them before.
2.
Not everybody will share your enthusiasm - Most people are not cut out for entrepreneurship.
Most people "work for the man" and think everyone else should.
3.
Be prepared for the brutality - Some people have experienced really negative reactions from folks.
4.
The Blame & Shame Game - Some family members will honestly think they have done something wrong, or they will blame your spouse, or your friends, or your school for this "change of lifestyle".
Here are some actual comments that either I or colleagues of mine heard from our families when "coming out" to them - and how to respond: 1.
"You're crazy to start a business in this economy.
" Statistically, a down economy is a great time to start a new business.
And it is, especially in business sectors where services are regularly being outsourced, like mine - accounting.
2.
"You just hate your job" Well, no, I hate wasting my talents making someone else rich.
My jobs up to this point have prepared me for entering into this new business.
I will be doing ________, but rather than earning money for my boss, I'll be getting paid directly by my clients.
And tell them that you already have clients - but only if you do.
Remember, be honest! 3.
"What are you trying to do to me?" I'm trying to do something that leaves a lasting legacy - trying to make you proud of what I'm doing.
That's a little sketchy, but for one of my colleagues, it worked.
4.
"April Fools, right?" Maybe, you'll just have to wait and see.
Some people won't believe it until they see it.
5.
"When you run out of steam with this, give me a call, I'll take you back.
" I would love to keep my options open.
Thank you for allowing me that window of opportunity.
I appreciate what you have done for me.
One of my colleagues had a boss say this to him.
Unfortunately, he paraphrased the old Johnny Paycheck song as he was leaving, "Take this job and shove it".
His former boss didn't leave the window open.
Be gracious, and realize that unless you work for a small business, your boss works for somebody too, and isn't likely to understand your motives.
If you do work for an entrepreneur, he or she would never say something like this.
6.
"Your father and I didn't raise you to do this!" Yeh, Mom, but Dad has has his own business for 20 years and he's done ok.
That's what my mother said.
Really.
And, yes, Dad has had his own business for more than 20 years operating right there in their house.
I laugh about it now, but three and half years ago, it wasn't so funny.