Sometimes, the best lessons come from our struggles. Years ago, I took a bold step to launch a business with no upfront resources—just determination and creativity. Here’s how I did it, what I learned, and how you can apply these principles to your own dreams.
Step 1: Embrace the “Sell First, Buy Later” Mindset
Reflection Point: Are you letting “lack of resources” stop you from pursuing your goals? How can you reframe this obstacle into an opportunity?
I remember listening to the late Jim Rohn, who emphasized the importance of selling before buying. The idea stuck with me, and when I found myself facing a challenge, I put it into action.
Back then, I was starting a membership card program. Customers could use these cards to get discounts at local businesses. The catch? I didn’t have the money for the equipment to print the cards.
Step 2: Get Creative with Your Resources
Reflection Point: What resources, skills, or connections do you already have that you can leverage?
Instead of letting the lack of a card printer stop me, I focused on what I could do—sell the concept. I approached local business owners, pitching the idea as something they could use to attract and reward their customers. Many loved it and pre-ordered 10–20 cards each to distribute to their clients.
Step 3: Take Action Before You’re Fully Ready
Reflection Point: Are you waiting for the perfect moment? What small step can you take today to move forward?
Once I sold enough cards, I used the money to buy a card-printing machine. I practiced with it until I mastered the process, printed the cards, and delivered them to my customers. By focusing on the end goal and taking decisive action, I overcame what initially seemed like an insurmountable obstacle.
Step 4: Celebrate Your Wins Along the Way
Reflection Point: Are you taking time to acknowledge your progress, even if the journey isn’t complete?
To officially launch the program, I planned a grand opening event in Charlotte. Though we didn’t live there at the time, we believed it would be a good market. Over 150 people attended, making it a memorable and motivating milestone.
Step 5: Learn from Failure and Stay Grateful
Reflection Point: How can you view your failures as stepping stones instead of setbacks?
Ultimately, the business didn’t last. Technology evolved, and apps replaced the need for physical membership cards. While I could have pivoted, the timing worked out for the best. It was before my two children, Lil Chris and Katelynn, were born. The failure taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, resourcefulness, and gratitude.
Lessons for Launching on a Limited Budget
- Pre-sell your product or service. Focus on selling the idea first to validate demand and raise funds.
- Leverage your network. Reach out to people who might find value in what you’re offering.
- Start scrappy. Use the resources you have at hand, and don’t wait for perfection.
- Learn as you go. You don’t need to have all the answers before taking action.
- Embrace failure as feedback. Even if your first attempt doesn’t succeed, the lessons you learn will prepare you for future opportunities.
Final Thought: “What If It Does Work?”
Reflection Point: Instead of worrying about failure, ask yourself: What if it succeeds beyond my wildest dreams?
Too often, we hold back because of fear. But the truth is, every failure brings you closer to success. If you have an idea, take that first step. It may not work, but it just might. And if it doesn’t, you’ll still be better off than if you’d never tried at all.
Now, what’s your first step?