In a recent subscriber survey I conducted, there were several opportunities for participants to enter their personal comments or opinions.One comment that came up several times-I’m assuming from those respondents just in the start up phase-was that they couldn’t afford any coaching, mentoring or tele-classes. I get how scary it is to find money to finance a start-up when there is no guarantee of success. I’ve been there a few times, and afterward I always realized that I had put myself in a box of small thinking. Who will invest in your dreams and ideas if you won’t?

Often, when start-ups have come to me after months of trying to do it alone and with no money, they are frustrated and losing confidence because of the lack of significant results they’re getting. This saddens me and I am thrilled when we can turn it around.

You wouldn’t think of trying to buy a house or car with no money would you? Well you can’t start a business with no money either-but you can start with a small budget. And the money you invest in learning how to do it the right way should be returned to you tenfold in the money you make as a result and the time, effort and struggle you save. Now it’s often confusing knowing, on a limited budget, which courses or mentoring programs to invest in. That’s why you should always make sure there is no risk involved on your part because the company or individual offering the service should offer a guarantee. If they are offering something of value, they will offer a no risk trial or refund of some sort. You should also look for bona fide results-driven testimonials from previous clients.

If you check out previous posts on this blog under “small business loans” and “financing” you’ll see what options you have for getting the funds you need to get off the ground or get to the next level. You’ll also find some posts about “marketing on a shoestring”. Think of it as investing in your success, not as spending money you don’t have.

Another comment was that some people learn better by reading than by attending a tele-class or webinar. Or they get information faster that way. I’m one of those people. I’m a fast reader and like the option of skimming past the parts that don’t interest me. So for all of you out there like me, here are some suggestions:

• Rather than attend the class, download the audio and listen to it in small segments where you can also fast-forward through anything that you don’t want to listen to.
• Ask for a written transcript of the call. Sometimes these are made available.
• Consider attending the call if it is going to be information rich, because you will have an opportunity to ask questions. If you can’t attend ask the presenter if you may e-mail any questions afterward.

The truth is that in depth learning does not take place from blogs and giveaways. When new knowledge would mean money in the bank for you, invest in more in depth learning. I’m a perpetual student and it has paid off in the business results I get.

Comments? I’d love to hear how you handle investing in your business.

 Warmly,

Janis