When You Want it ALL – the Entrepreneurial Dilemma

Years ago, when I was speaking at a conference in Virginia, I was having technical difficulties getting my laptop to ‘speak’ to the organization’s projector. “Why don’t you just buy your own projector so you don’t have to go through this angst?” the program director asked me. The real answer was “$1500″, but I mumbled something else at the time. I actually had the $1500, but chose not to allocate it on this one item at that time.

Actually, the bigger question is, where do I spend my resources when there are so many hungry mouths–technology upgrades, web upgrades, subcontractors, marketing expenses, etc., etc., etc.–to feed?

I keep a healthy escrow account for my business, but sometimes the demands exceed the supply. That’s when judgment and prudence are called for. What’s most important at this moment?

I’ve just received a lengthy and detailed plan for my book launch which has me very excited. It was created by a pro who previously worked for someone with deep pockets. I teasingly liken my pockets to the new garment you buy where the stitches are still holding the sides of the pocket in place!

What I’ll do is meet with my team of financial advisers, map out my resources and my desires and needs, and figure out what I can afford and when. Of course, I want it ALL today, but that has a way of not working out for the best. What I can afford today is what I’ll purchase. And as more money flows in, I’ll have my checklist to move forward.

I did buy a projector for my laptop which has been a wonderful addition to my technology collection. I did it at the right time and with consideration. That seems to be my formula for success, even though it’s not a particularly sexy way to operate.

So, what do you do when you want it ALL? Please share your strategies with me on my blog.

Highlights from My Blog

The Art of Specificity
I receive a number of offers weekly from people who want to speak at my networking events, give their advice to my mastermind groups or co-lead programs with me. The suggestions are worded something like, “If you ever need a speaker” or “I have great expertise in _____, and would be happy to share it with your group” or “If you’d like me to offer ____ during one of your sessions…” I delete them pretty quickly. What stood out for me last week was an offer I couldn’t refuse... Read more.

An Interesting Offer
I received an unusual offer today to participate in a job fair at the Danbury Correctional Institution. The educational director who placed the call talked about the need to help women prepare for the job market assisting with resume writing and interviewing skills. I quickly explained that I am all about helping women start and run their own businesses. He went on to say that actually many of the prisoners have talked about the dream of owning and operating their own companies. Would I be willing to share my expertise with them? Read more.

Everything I Hate About Social Media
Okay, okay. I know I’m going to convert, but first, as is my way, I need to kick and scream, whine and complain. Forgive me. (I’d be interested in how you take on challenges that are daunting.)

I have committed to becoming savvy about Twitter and Facebook and socializing via blog comments. Ugh. Here’s what distresses me. Maybe if I write down all these things, I’ll move on. Read more.