Identifying Toxic Advice in Your Entrepreneurial Journey

Have you noticed a target on your back?

You’ve taken the plunge into entrepreneurship, just like I did eight years ago. As you chase your dreams and establish your business, it seems like everyone around you has their sights set on undermining your efforts. Despite your pursuits having no connection to their lives, they seem intent on seeing you fail. Tough to swallow, right?

It’s a common refrain that no one warned me about this aspect of entrepreneurship, but it's true—friends and family sometimes harbor hidden agendas.

I’ve had a relative try to dictate how I should issue invoices, so they wouldn’t feel compelled to pay me promptly. A friend accused me of having a nefarious motive for starting my business, right after I offered them a position. Additionally, a fellow writer provided me with advice that would have stifled my creativity and confined me to their narrow viewpoint.

The most disheartening part? I was blindsided by these detractors. They masqueraded as allies while secretly hoping for my downfall. Now that I’m on the verge of self-publishing my debut book, I can sense another wave of critics ready to swoop in.

Through past experiences, I’ve gained wisdom. My aim is to help you avoid the emotional turmoil of being undermined by those you trust. Here’s a straightforward guide to recognize who might be leading you astray with poor business advice.

Credentials Matter

Look for the following indicators to determine if the advice you’re receiving comes from a credible source:

1. Relevant Education: Is this person educated in your specific field? It’s essential that their knowledge aligns with the advice they’re offering. For instance, you wouldn’t consult a plumber about your accounting woes, right?
2. Significant Experience: If they lack formal credentials, do they have extensive experience? While someone with limited experience might provide a valid point, seasoned professionals often bring more reliable insights.
3. Proven Results: Are they successful in their endeavors? I wouldn’t seek publishing advice from someone who has never published a book themselves.

Be Wary of Deceptive Appearances

In our age of social media, it’s easy to be misled by individuals projecting an image of success.

Don’t mistake these markers for real expertise:

• A large social media following could be bought or achieved through fleeting viral moments rather than sustained effort.
• Association with successful individuals doesn’t guarantee their own credibility.
• Owning luxury items doesn’t equate to business acumen; they may have come through other means.

Test Before Trusting

Even credible individuals can mislead you. The relative I mentioned earlier had a successful business for years but offered me advice that was ultimately not suitable for my situation.

To avoid making missteps, test the validity of any advice before implementing it.

#### The Risks of Blind Trust

Implementing every piece of advice without discernment can lead to chaos. Constantly changing your business methods can exhaust you and confuse your clients. Remember, most advice can be tested and is not set in stone.

Seek Input from Others

I regret not seeking peer feedback when I received controversial writing advice that drastically impacted my career.

Before acting on advice, consider:

• Accuracy: Is there someone in your network who can verify the information? A quick search can reveal if the advice holds weight.
• Industry Standards: Participate in forums or groups to gather insights. Other professionals can help assess the advice’s credibility.

Verify Online Information

Sometimes, the advice may come from unfamiliar sources. While it’s crucial to be discerning, it’s also important to recognize that not all online advice is detrimental.

Before following online advice, look for:

• Education and Experience: Just as you would with a friend or family member, scrutinize their qualifications.
• Consistency in Results: If someone claims to have an effective strategy but their metrics don’t add up, be cautious.
• Credible Mentions: A reputable business person will be featured in credible publications, not solely on their own platform.

Understand the Motives Behind Advice

Always consider what someone might gain from offering you advice. For instance, my relative’s suggestion to adjust my invoicing was more about their convenience than my benefit.

#### Analyzing Bias

To discern the intentions of those giving you advice, ask:

• What do they stand to gain from helping you? Is it merely goodwill, or are they after something more tangible?
• Are there potential downsides for them if they choose to assist you?

Conclusion: Take Advice With Caution

In the entrepreneurial landscape, advice is abundant, but discernment is key. The more successful you become, the more you’ll encounter unsolicited opinions—often stemming from the “tall poppy syndrome.”

To navigate this maze, maintain a healthy skepticism toward the advice you receive. While some may offer valuable insights, remember to trust your judgment and pursue what’s best for your business.

Now, go forth and thrive!

The video title is "Do You Feel Awkward Creating Some Videos? This Might Be Why!" by McCall Jones. In this episode, McCall discusses the common discomfort entrepreneurs experience when creating content and offers insights to help overcome it.