What do you do if you're facing obstacles as a self-employed manager?

As a self-employed manager, you're the captain of your own ship, navigating through the unpredictable waters of the business world. Obstacles are inevitable, but how you handle them can make all the difference. Whether you're dealing with financial pressures, client demands, or the solitude of working independently, it's important to approach each challenge with a strategic mindset. Remember, you're not just managing a business; you're managing yourself. Your resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills are your best assets when the going gets tough.

1 Assess Risks

When faced with obstacles, it's crucial to evaluate the risks involved. Consider the worst-case scenario and weigh it against the potential benefits of overcoming the challenge. This risk assessment is not about dwelling on the negative but about being prepared. By understanding the implications, you can create contingency plans and set realistic goals. It's about making informed decisions that will help safeguard your business and your peace of mind.

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Akhmad Madces

Vice President at Telkomsel | Commissioner | Top Leadership & Management Voice Linkedin | 5G | Digital Transformation | Contributing to build Indonesia 🇮🇩 Digital Connectivity
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In my experience, when encountering obstacles, it's crucial to conduct a thorough assessment. This involves identifying the root cause of the obstacles and shifting our focus towards finding solutions rather than dwelling on the problems themselves. By pinpointing the root cause, we can explore various options for solutions, evaluating the associated risks of each option. Subsequently, we select the most optimal solution that not only addresses the issue effectively but also minimizes potential risks

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2 Seek Advice

No manager is an island, even when self-employed. Seeking advice from mentors, industry peers, or a professional network can provide valuable insights. These conversations can offer new perspectives on your situation and suggest solutions that you might not have considered. Remember, asking for guidance is not a sign of weakness; it’s a strategic move that can help you navigate through difficult times more effectively.

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Kok How LEE

Economist, Lecturer, Writer (SCMP, BT, CNA, Asia Times), Entrepreneur | Views are my own, reposts are not endorsements
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Human beings are altruistic and inclined to help someone they can relate to. Seeking advice while not a sign of weakness, to some extent does shows one’s vulnerability, and you don’t do that if 1) you’re not close to that person 2) if you don’t value their inputs. Hence, the act itself helps strengthen relationships.

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3 Prioritize Tasks

When obstacles arise, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Prioritize your tasks by focusing on what's most important and what can be handled later. This doesn't mean ignoring less critical tasks but rather strategically delaying them until you've managed the more pressing issues. By organizing your workload, you can maintain momentum and ensure that your energy is directed where it's needed most.

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4 Embrace Change

Obstacles often require you to adapt and embrace change. This might mean altering your business model, learning new skills, or rethinking your approach to client relationships. Change can be uncomfortable, but it's also an opportunity for growth. Embrace it as a chance to innovate and improve your business practices. Remember that flexibility is a key trait of successful self-employed managers.

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5 Invest in Growth

Investing in your personal and professional growth is essential when facing obstacles. This could involve taking courses to enhance your management skills or investing in tools that streamline your operations. By committing to continuous improvement, you not only overcome current challenges but also prepare yourself for future ones. It's an investment in your business's longevity and your own fulfillment as a manager.

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6 Reflect Regularly

Regular reflection is a powerful tool for any self-employed manager. Take time to review what's working and what isn't, and be honest with yourself about the reasons behind each obstacle you face. Reflection allows you to learn from your experiences and apply those lessons moving forward. It's a cycle of continuous learning that can turn obstacles into stepping stones for success.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if you're facing obstacles as a self-employed manager?

1

2

3

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5

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1 Assess Risks

2 Seek Advice

3 Prioritize Tasks

4 Embrace Change

5 Invest in Growth

6 Reflect Regularly

7 Here’s what else to consider

Management

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What do you do if you're facing obstacles as a self-employed manager?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess Risks

2 Seek Advice

3 Prioritize Tasks

4 Embrace Change

5 Invest in Growth

6 Reflect Regularly

7 Here’s what else to consider

Management

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