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Hi Rasheed,

I am about to set up in business. I have thought about this for a year or so (and have been really inspired by reading the women in business profiles on Precious!) and I'm excited about moving forwards. My only issue at the moment is my friends. A few of them have done their best to discourage me from setting up in business by saying that my idea won't work (it's fashion related) and that I'll be skint for ages and I'll never see them. I'm aware of the risks as I have researched them and am still ready to go it alone, but I don't want to lose my friends. How do I balance my determination to set up my own business while keeping my friends close? Thanks.

Yinka, London

Rasheed replies:

Dear Yinka,

 

You raise an issue that comes up a lot in business; support, scepticism and concern from friends and family.

You touch on the answer in your question. You see there are two things going on here. One is whether you’re adequately prepared to run a business. From your letter it’s clear that you’ve planned and researched – and you’ve used the word determined – which is the ultimate key to business success. The second issue is your relationship with friends, their support, and whether or not that will change as you step into your business.

The answer is to express to your friends your passion, commitment and your preparation. Naturally they will be concerned for you and for the friendship. Tell them that you’re going ahead and that you want to keep that friendship and support. It’s then really over to them.

The fact is you are going on a journey to build your business. You will need a good, skilled, supportive crew with the apt skills and temperament on board and on land too. The question is who do you need on board – and in this case - who do you need supporting you on land. What is your criteria and do your friends meet the criteria? Sometimes the answer is that some friendships will stay the same, some will change and some may need to go. Be clear precisely what you want from your friends and see if what you have measures up to it – your heart will tell you – and be sure to trust it. In the event that some friendships change or fade away now is the opportunity to explore the kind of friends, companions and crew members you need to support you for the new pastures ahead.

Wishing you every success on your journey,

Rasheed

 

Read February's letter from Jennifer, who asked Rasheed about how to not let shyness get in the way...read here.