The power of self-belief

If you want to build a business that goes the distance, what’s the key trait you need to possess by the bucketload? Self belief! It’s essential. Passion might get you started, enthusiasm and energy will keep you going in the early days, but self-belief is what will ensure you reach the finish line. Many successful women entrepreneurs will tell you that it was only their self belief that allowed them to bounce back from the continual rejections, naysayers, and inevitable challenges faced along the journey. Self belief gives you the courage to keep picking up the phone and making those cold sales calls regardless of the number of rejections you get; or to keep standing up in front of an audience to pitch your business when your heart is racing and your palms are sweating with nerves; or to keep presenting your innovative ideas to conservative-minded business leaders who think they have seen it all before. There is a great quote on the subject of self belief by South African entrepreneur, Nobesuthu Ndlovu, founder of fashion retail company, Burgundy Fly, who says, "There will always be reasons as to why you shouldn't start a business; focusing on the cons and on the negatives for most ideas is a sure way to ensure failure. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that not only are you in a positive headspace, but also that you believe in yourself and your capabilities, all the way through the journey."