Instead of taking direct action or changing something specific to act more like a business owner, in this article, I am going to focus on two tips to focus internally to act like a business owner.

You will find that, as a result of doing the last two tips, you WILL change some specific things, but the main exercise is in your mind.

Here are the Steps to Take

1. Block off a half-an-hour for this exercise, and here is what you will do: grab a pen and paper, clear your mind, and get comfy.
2. Start thinking about the kind of business owner you would be and take some notes. Start with some thoughts about what, in your mind, is the description of a business owner. Focus on the kind of business owner you admire, or the kind of business owner you could admire. What would you do if you owned a business? What would you wear? What would you think about? How would you act?

These questions may sound almost silly, but the more you can identify a positive image of a business owner, the more you will be able to start acting that way. For example, let’s look at what a business owner wears—this answer will be totally different for different people. A few years back the stereo-typical IT start-up company was started by a guy who wanted to wear jeans, flip-flops, and a t-shirt to work. Owning a company meant that he could be as casual as he wanted. However, let us go back to Alex P. Keaton from the great 80s show Family Ties. Jeans and flip-flops would have been his definition of janitor! Alex thought a business owner wore a suit and a nice tie and carried a briefcase. How about for you?

Go through the rest of the questions, and jot down your thoughts. Then, look at your list and start acting that way! If it means you are a bit overdressed, so be it—no one will fault you for dressing more professionally than others. You are in a stickier situation if you want to dress casually, but your office is not a casual environment. If this is your case, how do I say this…..be casual in the garments people don’t see! Wear goofy socks, be radical and wear a funny t-shirt under your sweater instead of a white one. Be creative.

As you spend time thinking about and acting like your model of a business owner, you will find that your other actions will follow suit, too.

Be Free!

Leah Simpson
Instructor