As an entrepreneur, I believe the idealism surrounding entrepreneurship can be quite misleading. Many people envision it as a dream job where they're constantly doing what they love and everything is perfect. While it is incredibly fulfilling to build and create something of your own, it also demands a lot of hard work and sacrifice. Not everyone is cut out for entrepreneurship; it requires a willingness to take risks and the courage to try new things, even if failure is a possibility.

Be cautious about striving for perfection. It's often more beneficial to focus on progress and keep moving forward rather than waiting for everything to be perfect. Perfection can actually become an obstacle. Instead, aim for things to work well enough and be ready to adapt as you go. The goal isn't perfection; it's about understanding how to pivot and adjust along the way. Chasing perfection can leave you stuck in planning mode instead of taking action.

I believe the biggest misconception is that older workers won't add value to your business. The idea that they are too slow, too expensive, or too set in their ways is simply not true. These stereotypes, like being too cranky or inflexible, are myths. Research increasingly demonstrates the numerous benefits of employing older workers. Therefore, exploring their potential contribution to your business or company is a wise investment.

One of the most prevalent myths in our industry revolves around the idea that having a mentor, a business partner, or even discussing your business with your spouse or a close friend renders the need for a business coach unnecessary. I recall being confronted with this notion years ago during an interview when I was running my own company and utilizing a business coach. Initially, I grappled with the question because, at the time, I didn't have a business partner. However, with time and experience, I've come to realize the immense value a business coach brings, regardless of other support systems in place. Having now been on both ends of the spectrum, I can attest that a business coach offers unique insights and guidance that extend beyond ordinary conversations.

Isn't there just something special about good old-fashioned, face-to-face marketing? If you're not actively engaging in networking, tapping into your local chambers, attending networking events, or joining either closed or open networking groups where you can connect—whether it's on a monthly or weekly basis—then you're really missing out on opportunities for your business. After all, people tend to do business with those they know and trust. And how can they get to like and trust you if they haven't had the chance to get to know you? At the heart of it all, building relationships is key. And that starts with putting yourself or your product out there, directly in front of people. Whether it's your own presence or something you've crafted, being visible is essential to making sales.

I think the biggest myth is that profit margins in this industry are huge. In reality, contacts are very expensive. Many people spend upwards of $200 on an order, but the profit margin for companies like ours is often less than 30%, sometimes even below 20%. This is largely due to the involvement of middlemen like Johnson & Johnson and distribution companies. Despite the low margins, there's still a lot that can be achieved with the profits, and even a small profit margin can be used for a lot of good.

The prevalent misconception, often echoed by high-achieving leaders and those who consider themselves immensely successful, is that therapy is solely for individuals experiencing crisis. It's a notion we frequently encounter. However, I urge individuals to reconsider this perspective and contemplate therapy and coaching differently. Consider it akin to going to the gym for your mind. Just as I don't hit the gym solely to prepare for an upcoming vacation but for the betterment of my overall well-being, so too should we approach therapy or coaching. Even in the absence of imminent plans, investing in these practices is an act of self-care, aimed at improving our daily lives. Think of it as attending to your mental fitness, exercising positive emotional and psychological health.

The biggest myth is that marketers can solve all your problems. Many CEOs come to me asking for advice on improving their messaging, as if marketing alone can fix everything. But that's a misconception. You can't expect great results from poor input. If you provide me with basic, inadequate information, I can't magically transform it into gold. This is the most prevalent myth right now, and I'm sorry to say it's simply not true.