Are you guilty of “too much bootstrapping” syndrome?

One of the biggest traps that entrepreneurs fall into is trying to do everything on their own.

When you’re starting out, I believe that “flying solo” for a little while actually makes sense.  So does sampling a lot of low cost trainings with different mentors.  Why?  Because when you’re just starting out, blundering around is part of the deal. You’re going to be trying different things, bumping your head a little, and course-correcting.  It’s all part of finding your footing, so to speak.

But there comes a point – and it’s sooner than you think – that NOT getting expert help will cost you, big time.  While it may seem noble to try to figure everything out yourself, all that time spent learning something that an experienced mentor can tell you in about 5 minutes is time that you could have spent either marketing (attracting new clients) or serving (working with clients).

When I was first starting out, I was convinced that I didn’t have the money for a mentor.  Frankly, I was afraid.  So I joined the best low-cost program I could find, and – pardon the expression – worked the hell out of it.  I’m talking about listening to audio after audio… piecing together the “how” from endless 90-minute training calls… and, well, slogging.

Now, if I could turn back the clock, I would have found a way to step up.  Not just because of all the time and opportunities that I lost (and there were many), but because choosing the long and slow road was disempowering.  It sent the message to the Universe that I didn’t feel like I was deserving of support, and that I didn’t really believe in my powers of creation and manifestation.  Yuck.

So how do you know when it’s time to stop bootstrapping and get a mentor?  Here are a few questions to ask:

Have I been working really hard at the same level for 6 months or more, and am not making the progress I want?

Would I hire a mentor in a heartbeat “if I only had the money”?

Do I know in my heart that it’s time, but… [insert story here]

Those who are successful in any endeavor – be it solo business, a career, arts, medicine, anything – NEVER get there alone.  Allowing yourself to receive support sends a powerful message to the Universe: that you value yourself, are committed to the people you serve, and that you are ready to receive the success that you seek.

Bright blessings and massive success to you…