Why do people compete in the world of entrepreneurship and business? I am still trying to figure out this answer myself. I believe when people compete for the same promotion, the same customers, and the same opportunities, you are doing a disservice to yourself and the people you are called to serve. There is more than enough blessing for all of us to receive. When God gave one person a blessing he did not stop there, he has a special blessing for you too. Competition is operating from a place of lack.
The reality is you cannot grow or get to the next level in your own business if you are busy worrying about what others are doing. Instead of trying to be better or bigger than the next person, find out how you can give and receive support from others. Collaboration is the key to growth and success. I have grown in my business tremendously by joining forces and working with other entrepreneurs. Working with others not only gives me a different point of view in my business but also gives me an opportunity to leverage my expertise with theirs. Here are three reasons you should collaborate and play nice with other entrepreneurs.
We are stronger together
You are always stronger when you work with others. You cannot grow alone. I learned over the years that it takes a tribe to help you get to the next level. When you try to be the lonely man on an isolated island you are destined for failure. You need people who are where you are trying to go, and that can provide you with proper insight and advice. I am so thankful for the tribe I have. I have a group of individuals who will call me to the carpet and give me what I need to hear and not just what I want to hear. If you are ready to grow, then surround yourself with other leaders with who you have an authentic connection.
You make a greater impact
When you join forces with other entrepreneurs there will always be a greater impact by reaching more people. I recently wrote a book and I collaborated with seven other powerful nurses from around the world and it has been such an awesome experience. We helped support encourage and pray for one another through the writing process. The marketing for the books had a greater reach because each nurse promoted the books in different markets. This allows each person to be exposed to a larger number of people. Having a greater impact not only grows your community but ultimately grows your income.
Collaboration means growth
When you mature, you understand that life is not a competition with anyone but yourself.
One of my favorite quotes “I’m not in competition with anybody but myself. My goal is to beat my last performance.” – Celine Dion
I follow this quote because I truly want to see the women in my circle win. This means that I support them as much as I can, and they do the same for me. The most successful people in the world embrace joint ventures. Look at Oprah Winfrey for example, one of the most powerful businesswomen in the world. She has joined forces with the likes of Tyler Perry and so many others to grow her platform and her brand. This is what people of influence do on a regular. They are not looking to outdo one another, but they are looking to support and build with each other up. When you are comfortable and confident in your gift, you are not looking to stunt the growth of other’s gifts. When one of us wins, we all win!
Learn more about Priscilla Q. Williams at Instagram: thenursescoach/ Twitter: thenursescoach_
