I started my website, Black Is (www.blackisonline.com), in 2007. At the time it was an impulsive reaction; I searched the net feverishly for websites that showcased the varied experiences of Black American people. To my dismay the majority of the sites I came across were geared towards celebrity gossip and hip hop music. Undoubtedly these things have their place in the tapestry of the Black experience, but I knew that we were so much more.

It’s hard to start a business with no prior knowledge or plan on how to execute a particular thing and I entered into the world of electronic journalism with nothing more than a passion to speak my mind and have it heard. What I’ve learned along the way as an entrepreneur are lessons that I find applicable to my daily life as an educator, wife, and mother.

1) Go with your gut. True, good business sense requires some element of planning, but instinct can be everything. If you feel a strong urge to pursue something, don’t hesitate.

2) Receive help when you need it. I have found having a mentor in my business absolutely priceless and I often rely on his knowledge and expertise to help me troubleshoot challenges I face. Don’t be afraid to seek out someone who is doing what you want to do and pick their brain for information.

3) Don’t obsess over what you don’t know. I didn’t go to school for what I do, and it doesn’t matter. Never sell yourself short by concentrating solely on what you don’t know. Rather look at what you can do (and have done) and continue to build on that.

4) Be fearless. My line of work requires that I sometimes approach people in high-powered positions and celebrities for interviews. I can’t be intimidated by their accomplishments or feel that I don’t have much to offer them. Showing fear only causes others to question the product you are offering them. Believe in what you do and others will too.

5) Never make comparisons between yourself and others. You can only measure up to yourself so there’s no point in worrying what the next person is doing. There’s room for everyone to do what they want, so don’t be overly concerned about your competition. Rather, focus your energies on making sure you are always giving the best in what you do.

 

 This post was written by Black Is

Support Black Is by visiting her website Black Is