There’s no denying that starting your own business is scary. No matter how fool-proof your business plan is, or the amount of market research you’ve done, there’s still no way of predicting the outcome or success of your venture.

Business passion comes from enthusiasm for what you do. When it comes to choosing which industry you enter, think beyond financial gain. Working in a field you’re interested in and that will make you feel fulfilled is very important.

The Man with a Plan

Gary Vaynerchuk is the outspoken entrepreneur behind Wine Library, which is an online store that stocks a variety of wines. He also started a video series named Wine Library TV, through which he would answer consumers’ questions about wines. This ultimately turned him into an internet sensation.

He started his 2008 TED talk by saying that there is no reason anyone should be doing things they hate. And, he insists that all potential entrepreneurs ask themselves this question:

‘What do I want to do every day for the rest of my life?’

His message is that if you’re passionate about something, you’re able to monetise it and that if you believe in your offering, others will too.

The Truth

Self-doubt is common and completely understandable. More often than not, you’re putting your hard earned savings on the line for something that you don’t even know is going to work

In addition to the two p’s (passion and patience), Vaynerchuk has some clever tips for managing your business on a personal level:

• Care about your users

While many entrepreneurs do listen to what their consumers have to say, it’s not a given. Vaynerchuk personally answered almost 1,000 emails every day to see what his customers were talking about and querying. In doing so, he was able to adapt his business approach and alter his offerings to ensure they were getting what they wanted.

• Use time and skills efficiently

Yes, you need a job to gain the capital you need to start a business. But, you also need time to focus on your venture. This is the predicament that most entrepreneurs find themselves in. Vaynerchuk doesn’t mince words on this topic. He says that people should stop ‘watching Lost’ and use that time to work. If you truly have, then giving up that spare time won’t seem like a chore.
Additionally, using your personal strengths, attributes and available resources to the best of your abilities is imperative. Programs like QuickBooks, which streamline accounting, can save you valuable time.

• ‘Hustle’

Do whatever is necessary for your venture to succeed. No one said building businesses was easy. And, if you need to work two jobs to get equity, do it. If you’re required to work into the night for months on end, then do it (within reason).  Basically, you shouldn’t let anything stand in the way of you achieving your goals.

Vaynerchuck worked behind the counter of his father’s liquor store for seven years to generate enough revenue to start Wine Library. He has since started a social media digital marketing agency, and runs a vlog, #AskGaryVee, which he uses to answer questions from online platforms.

From a liquor store clerk to a multi-million-dollar entrepreneur, Gary Vaynerchuk tells it like it is.

‘If you, for a second, a half a second, don’t believe in what you’re doing. Whether it’s your personal brand or the product you represent, you need to get out now!’ – Gary Vaynerchuk

Love What you Do

Business passion is a fundamental requirement for success. If you believe in your product or service, and put in the work you need to, the rest is sure to follow.

And, as QuickBooks thrives on seeing SMEs flourish, it’s our mission to make accounting easier so that’re sure to succeed.