From Side Biz To Full Biz

This weeks Friday Factory, we're going to look at the differences I've observed between those who run their 3D printing businesses as a casual side-income, vs. those who do it full time. 

No one is "better" or "worse" than another, but I think you'll find the insight enlightening, especially if you find yourself more of a hobbyist and curious how to make this a more worthwhile endeavour (financially and in other means) or you're already doing well, but you want to keep it that way. 

I hope you appreciate the illustrative examples of common limiting beliefs and the mindset shifts that can serve you more appropriately. 

They Embrace Their Identity Shift:

Hobbyists often think they just want the printers to "pay for themselves. They might have a limiting belief such as: "I'm just a hobbyist."

The mindset shift for the business owner is: "I am a business owner, and this is my craft."

They're setting their heights much higher. If all you're looking to do is make a bit of extra income, without getting serious - that's all it will ever be. Totally fine if that's your goal, but highly limiting if it isn't. 

They Value Their Work:

Be honest, do you have this limiting belief: "It's just a small thing I made; I shouldn't charge much." ?

Here's what the pros believe: "My craft has value, and I deserve to be compensated fairly for it."

It isn't being arrogant, it's knowing your worth. You've got to charge appropriately because no one else is going to raise your price for you. 

They Invest in Their Learning:

As you know, doctors don't skimp on training (well, you hope they don't at least). So those who get serious also get objective about what they know and where they're starting. 

Here's a common limiting belief: "I know enough to get by."

Whereas the business owner's mindset shift is: "There's always room to grow and innovate."

If you're not growing, you're dying. 

They Seek Support, Not Validation:

This is such a subtle but important shift!

A common limiting belief: "If my friends or family don't see it, maybe it's not viable."

A powerful, distinctive mindset shift: "I'll surround myself with mentors and peers who understand my industry and can offer constructive feedback."

Just as you should learn to become qualified to make better decisions, you should surround yourself with those who are also qualified in terms of their level of understanding. 

They Plan for the Long Haul:

When we're thinking short term and overly focusing on the goal, instead of the process, we're setting ourselves up to be perpetually frustrated. 

Limiting belief: "I'll just see how things go for now."

Those that take this seriously to create a real income shift to: "I'm in this for the long run. Let's strategize."

Don't be passive in your future. We've got to be pro-active, because no one else is going to decide this for us. 

They Take Risks and Embrace Failure:

Unfortunately a really common limiting belief is: "If I fail, that means I'm not cut out for this."

Mindset shift: "Every failure is a lesson that brings me closer to success."

You don't learn that in school. 

Finally; They Cultivate Discipline Over Motivation:

Have you ever caught yourself thinking: "I'm not feeling inspired today; I'll work tomorrow."

Those that achieve their goals don't think that way. They're conscious to believe the truth: "Inspiration is fleeting, discipline is lasting. I'll set regular hours and routines for my business."

Remember, transitioning successfully requires more than a new business card—it's a complete internal revolution. 

With the right mindset, everything becomes so much easier because you're not constantly having so many internal battles with yourself - as highlighted by those very common internal beliefs outlined above.