Taking the leap can be intimidating. Fear holds many people back, even when they know the rewards can be life changing. Let’s address five common fears and how to overcome them.

1. Fear of Change
   Change can feel uncomfortable, but ask yourself: Isn’t change exactly what I really want? Your back-up is to return to your current path. But your need/want is the vision you create for your future! Embrace and build on that vision!
2. Fear of Commitment
   Yes, it’s a significant commitment, but you’re not new to that concept, right?? Your education, relationships, homeownership, parenting. Well, some may have become commitments without a lot of pre-planning. I recommend this one be done with planning!! 😉 Do your research…Get advice…Build your plan….Believe in your plan….Implement. And repeat when fear pops in.
3. Fear of Financial Instability
   Leaving steady paychecks from someone else might be daunting. Your plan needs to be sound. A well-thought-out choice of business model is critical. Recent history and future predictions need to be considered relating to staffing availability, reimbursements/payments, and your professional and business relationships and strengths. How will you bolster areas of need.
4. Fear of Failure
   Do your research. Reach out for advice. Know and work your plan. Have a mentor/confidant consultant. Things going wrong are part of the building and learning curve. Without those, your end ‘product’ gets locked in too early and won’t be sustainable. Learn and adjust. Successful people embrace failure as a stepping stone, using setbacks to refine their strategies and move forward smarter and stronger.
5. Fear of Sales and Marketing
   Ah yes …”I don’t know how to market or sell.” You didn’t know how to treat patients until you became educated in it. Do the same. It is a skill that has defined steps and processes – it can be learned and personalized to you. And the truth is, it is all about first, understanding your target audience, and then, effectively communicating your value to them. With the right strategies, marketing becomes an empowering tool not only to grow your business, but to enhance your communication skills and personal growth.

Next Steps?

KEY Functional Assessments Network provides the tools you need to succeed as an Industrial Therapist with Direct-to-Employer business! With Key’s guidance, you can learn how to research, plan design, and market your services to grow your business as a self-employed professional. With effort and determination, you can turn your dream into a rewarding reality.