Too often we, as fashion business owners, overlook the things we’re sure that we already know.
Essentially, we make assumptions.
We assume we already know something about the business and we never pause to confirm whether it’s actually accurate.
Can you identify the areas of your fashion business where you’re making assumptions?
I know, it’s difficult.
But it’s important that you try.
Because it’s really common to make assumptions about things in your business and as a result, you may not make the progress that you want to be making.
It’s easy to be so sure that you already know…
who your customer really is and what they want
that you can’t afford to hire help
that your marketing collateral is working well for you
that your marketing collateral isn’t working well for you
that your brand messaging is clear
the best way to spend (or not spend) money in the business
that something will or will not work
We fall into the trap of believing that there are set answers to all of these things and we make the assumption that once we figure them out, we’re done.
Assumptions in business are dangerous.
They cause us to get comfortable, to stop trying new things in business, and ultimately to stifle growth.
So it’s important to challenge your assumptions on a regular basis.
You need to ask yourself questions every day. One question that really works is, “Why?”
Why do you believe this certain thing about your customer?
Why do you think you can’t afford to hire help?
Why do you believe that marketing collateral is/isn’t working well for your business?
Why do you think your brand messaging is clear?
Why is that the best way to approach spending in your business?
Why do I think something will or will not work?
And then keep asking “why” until you have the real answer.
With every answer you give yourself, ask why again until you get to the root.
When you ask yourself this question, it does wonders for challenging your assumptions.
It causes you to dive deeper into how you run your business. And it creates a healthy amount of resistance to complacency.
When you make it a habit to not overlook the things that you’re sure you already know, you take a giant step in the direction of growth.
So, here’s your challenge. Sit down and make your list.
Be honest with yourself about what you’re overlooking simply because you’re “sure.”
Actively work on stomping those assumptions out by asking yourself why.
And then, finally, head in the direction of “What if…” and see how that simple shift in thinking can bring about enormous change.
Lots of love and encouragement,
