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<h3>Challenge #3: How to Handle the Ever-Increasing Workload of Entrepreneurship 🤹‍♂️</h3>As entrepreneurs, we thrive on creating, building, and launching—but as we scale, the workload can start to feel like it’s multiplying with each new venture. For me, running BAAH (Business As A Hobby) means dealing with more providers, social media accounts, websites, strategic conversations, and yes, more admin tasks.It’s thrilling to see progress and growth, but let’s be real—it can also become overwhelming. 😅 (Also when the growth is not enought to be able to delegate...)Right now, things are still under control. Projects are moving forward, and progress is being made across all fronts. But I’ve started asking myself an important question:<blockquote>When do I need to stop launching new ventures to maintain quality, avoid burnout, and keep enjoying the process?</blockquote>I’ve come to realize that it’s not just about starting more things—sometimes, it’s about managing what you’ve already built. And honestly, I’m looking forward to this new phase. It’s a shift from rapid launching to scaling with intention, and it’s one that I believe can be just as fulfilling as the initial hustle.<h3>The Scaling Dilemma: Execution vs. Expansion </h3>Every entrepreneur faces this dilemma at some point: Do you keep pushing for more, or do you focus on executing and scaling what’s already working? The answer depends on where you’re at in your journey, but here’s what I’ve found helpful:<ol><li>BE OK with what you do:&nbsp;Know that there will be many different ways to do things and you choosing one or another is not wrong. Stick with it and know that is impossible to go ALL the ways. So you can check back and have a rationale that justified that specific actin plan.</li><li>Assess the state of your current ventures: Are the businesses you’ve launched truly ready to scale? Or are they still in the phase of finding product-market fit? If it’s the latter, it might be worth holding off on new projects and doubling down on the ones that need attention.</li><li>Understand your capacity: There’s only so much bandwidth you can stretch. If you’re constantly feeling overwhelmed, it’s a sign that you might be spreading yourself too thin. Managing stress is just as crucial as managing the business itself—burnout doesn’t help anyone, especially not your yourself 😅.</li><li>Look for ways to automate and optimize: This is where technology can be your best friend. From automating social media posts to setting up workflows for customer onboarding, there are so many tools available that can help reduce the manual workload. Think of it as freeing up your time for what truly matters—strategy, vision, and growth</li></ol><h3>What’s Worked for Me: Guiding Principles</h3><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">In my journey with BAAH, a few key principles have kept me grounded and productive, even as the workload has grown. These principles can apply to any entrepreneur looking to scale while keeping their sanity intact:<ul><li>Execution is key: It’s easy to get caught up in ideas, but I’m a firm believer that success comes down to how well you execute. You don’t need to launch a perfect product right away—iterate as you go and refine over time.</li><li>Attitude matters: A good attitude won’t reduce your workload, but it does make it easier to handle. Staying positive, even in the face of challenges, helps you maintain momentum and keeps you from burning out.</li><li>Optimism fuels progress: There will always be obstacles, but maintaining an optimistic mindset is essential. If you view problems as opportunities to learn, you’ll be more resilient and adaptive to change.</li><li>Simplify, automate, optimize: These three words are my productivity mantra. By simplifying your processes, automating repetitive tasks, and constantly optimizing your workflows, you create more space to focus on growth rather than getting stuck in the daily grind.</li></ul><h3>Shifting Gears: Moving From Launching to Managing</h3><span style="background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity)); font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: inherit;" data-mce-style="background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity)); font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: inherit;">I’m at the point where I will need shifting from launching new ventures to nurturing and scaling the ones I’ve already started. This transition isn’t just necessary—it’s an exciting new challenge. Here’s why this phase can be equally rewarding:<ul><li>Scaling sustainably: It’s one thing to launch a business quickly, but scaling it sustainably is where long-term success lies. Now’s the time to focus on growing what works—building systems, optimizing operations, and ensuring that the foundation is solid before expanding further.</li><li>Enjoying the process: By pausing to focus on what you’ve already built, you allow yourself to enjoy the fruits of your labor. It’s easy to get caught up in the “what’s next?” mindset, but there’s value in stepping back and appreciating the progress you’ve made.</li><li>Building a legacy: As entrepreneurs, we often focus on the next big idea. But the businesses that stand the test of time are those that are nurtured, optimized, and allowed to grow. This is where legacy is built—not just through creation, but through consistent and thoughtful management.</li></ul><h3>How to Avoid Burnout and Scale with Joy</h3>Now, the big question: How do you manage it all without burning out?Here’s what’s worked for me:<ol><li>Delegate: You can’t do it all yourself. Whether it’s hiring freelancers, building a team, or outsourcing parts of the business, delegation is key to maintaining sanity. Focus on what you do best and let others handle the rest.</li><li>Batch your work: Instead of jumping between tasks, I’ve found it helpful to batch similar tasks together. For instance, I’ll dedicate one day to content creation and another to strategy sessions. This helps me stay focused and reduces the mental load of constantly switching gears.</li><li>Stay connected: Entrepreneurship can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. Stay connected with fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and your network. Sharing experiences and learning from others is one of the best ways to stay motivated and inspired. &nbsp;<h3>Conclusion: We’re in This Together</h3></li></ol>At the end of the day, entrepreneurship is a journey that comes with its highs and lows. By focusing on execution, maintaining a positive attitude, and finding ways to optimize your workload, you can continue scaling your business without losing the joy that got you started in the first place.<blockquote>Let’s share our experiences and support one another—we’re all in this together. 🫶🙌&nbsp;</blockquote>

Challenge #3: Increasing workload management

<h2>Why Execution Matters More Than Ideas</h2>We’ve all been there—caught up in the excitement of a brilliant idea, that lightbulb moment where everything seems possible. But here’s the truth: ideas are just the starting point. The real work, the real magic, happens in execution.Now, don’t get me wrong. Ideas are powerful. They spark conversations, inspire innovations, and drive change. But without action, they remain just that—ideas. It’s the execution that turns those dreams into something real, tangible, and impactful.<figure id="figure-tvqqhyqobbm0qrtu3q"><img id="tvqqhyqobbm0qrtu3q" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23gwdPfdYv2qxj2Lk8MguVLsDKXHCJ0JMlRr7f7tSU3jNEYepZ33GCUczd5JMsaL.jpg" alt="business meeting" title="business meeting" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3>Execution is Where the Results Live</h3>I’ve always been a firm believer in focusing my energy on execution. Sure, the ideation stage is exciting. But the results? They’re found in the doing, not the thinking. Taking that concept off your secret corner, putting it out into the world, and shaping it through action—that’s where success lies.Whether you’re launching a business, spearheading a project, or simply pursuing a personal goal, it’s the action that moves the needle. Great ideas are common; great execution is rare. And that’s the edge that makes all the difference.<h3>It’s Not Just for Entrepreneurs </h3>This isn’t just about starting a company or being an entrepreneur. Execution matters in every aspect of life: your career, personal projects, or any path you’re on. Whether it’s finally starting that side hustle, pursuing a new skill, or even just implementing changes in your daily routine—action is key.The problem is, too many people keep their ideas locked away, afraid someone else might steal them. My advice? Share your ideas with your friends, your network, your community. Don’t be afraid to put them out there. Most likely, it will only help you refine them, gain new perspectives, and get the motivation you need to start executing.<figure id="figure-s9ll9fu89mm0qrtx8e"><img id="s9ll9fu89mm0qrtx8e" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1580428354768-03a028646bc8?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxwcm9ncmVzc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MjU2MzA4MjZ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="teamwork project" title="teamwork project" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1580428354768-03a028646bc8?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxwcm9ncmVzc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MjU2MzA4MjZ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Fear of someone taking your idea? Let It Go</h3>One of the biggest barriers to execution is the fear of someone else running with your idea. The reality? Ideas are everywhere, and chances are, someone else has thought of something similar already. The difference is in who acts on it. Don’t let the fear of copycats hold you back. If anything, sharing your ideas can open doors, spark collaborations, and help you refine your vision.At the end of the day, it’s not about who thought of it first—it’s about who gets it done.<blockquote>&nbsp;And even after you start, bigger players can come and do exactly the same... so focus on doing it as good as possible</blockquote><h3>My School of Thought: Share, Execute, and Learn</h3>I come from the school of sharing. Discuss your ideas openly, gather feedback, and most importantly, act. Execution isn’t just about success; it’s about learning, evolving, and moving forward. The process itself is invaluable, teaching you more than any amount of planning ever could.So, here’s my challenge to you: Take that idea off the shelf, share it, and start building. Don’t just dream it—do it. Because in the end, the greatest idea in the world means nothing without the hustle to make it happen.<figure id="figure-xi2jj3wvyim0qru0eb"><img id="xi2jj3wvyim0qru0eb" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1522071820081-009f0129c71c?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxCdXNpbmVzcyUyMENvbnN1bHRpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI1NjMwNzkwfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="group of people using laptop computer" title="group of people using laptop computer" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1522071820081-009f0129c71c?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxCdXNpbmVzcyUyMENvbnN1bHRpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI1NjMwNzkwfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3>Ideas are the seeds of innovation

Execution Over Ideas: Why Doing Beats Dreaming Every Time

Looking at new AI tools and things to play with, I stumble upon <a data-mce-href="https://labs.google/gentype" href="https://labs.google/gentype" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Google Labs’ GenType</a>—a tool that lets you create fonts based on just about anything you describe—I knew I had to give it a go.<blockquote>Naturally, I wanted to try something close to what I’m currently working on. Since we’re launching our matcha tea business in August, I thought, why not create a font inspired by matcha tea itself? 🍵</blockquote><h3>The Experiment: What Does Matcha Look Like in a Font?</h3>So, I fed GenType a description of matcha—its smooth, earthy vibes, that calming green color, and the whole peaceful experience of sipping on this amazing tea. And out came a font! I played with tennis balls, and other topics but they did not look very nice...&nbsp; See below 🫣:<figure id="figure-9y94lj4tfum047g45i" class=""><img id="9y94lj4tfum047g45i" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9NSOFqzsdgBqcdPgvl9QdON5n87DrEShgUYcyeH4wBeDpMCvW87LXFKbcRGolv4Y.png" alt="Test for Font made out of Tennis Balls using AI " title="Test for Font made out of Tennis Balls using AI " class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 45% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Test for Font made out of Tennis Balls" data-positionx="45%" data-positiony="45%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9NSOFqzsdgBqcdPgvl9QdON5n87DrEShgUYcyeH4wBeDpMCvW87LXFKbcRGolv4Y.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 45% 45%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Test for Font made out of Tennis Balls</figcaption></figure>Is it groundbreaking? Probably not. But it’s definitely interesting and a fun way to see how AI can transform even the simplest ideas into something visual. I’m not sure where this matcha font will fit in just yet, but don’t be surprised if you see it pop up in some of our content down the road!<figure id="figure-c61c03xnhm048aga3"><img id="c61c03xnhm048aga3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/d2o1ETfnnFtfIy7akQpYtZHKX1jKX1r3BroHJHkinFFTgxhEfQ6lpuiQtbiU9YKs.png" alt="Matcha Font" title="Matcha Font" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Font made by GenType in action" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Font made by GenType in action</figcaption></figure><h3>Real-World Fun: How You Could Actually Use AI Fonts</h3>Now, while my matcha-inspired font might be more of a cool experiment, there are definitely some practical ways you could use AI-generated fonts like this in your own projects:<ol><li>Seasonal Vibes: Imagine crafting a font that screams summer (using watermelon, beach sand..), winter holidays (with some snowflakes, skies,...), or any other season you’re gearing up for. A custom font can pull all your visuals together and make your campaigns feel more connected and memorable.</li><li>Brand Personality: Want to stand out? A custom font that matches your brand’s vibe—whether it’s sleek, bold, or playful—could be that extra touch that sets you apart from the crowd.</li><li>Social Media Pop: In the sea of social posts, a unique font might be just what you need to catch someone’s eye as they scroll. It’s a small tweak, but it can make your content look that much more polished and engaging.</li><li>Personal Touch: And hey, it’s not all business! You could use a custom font to send out personal invites, cute messages, or even holiday cards. It’s a simple way to add a little extra something to your communications. What’s Next for GenType and BAAH?</li></ol>At the end of the day, tools like GenType are all about having fun and seeing what’s possible. It might not be the most essential tool in the kit, but it’s a neat way to experiment with AI and creativity.I’m excited to see how these kinds of tools evolve and what other creative uses we’ll come up with. For now, I’m just enjoying the process and keeping things light and playful—because that’s what BAAH is all about.Have you tried out GenType or something similar? Got ideas for cool ways to use AI-generated fonts? I’d love to hear what you think—drop me a line and feel free to connect! 🤗

Playing with AI: Creating a Matcha-Inspired Font UsingGenType

<h2>AI for YOU: Your New Best Friend in the Digital Age </h2>AI isn’t just for tech geeks and big corporations anymore—it’s for everyone. If you’re in business, chances are you need AI, and trust me, it’s about time you start using it. You might be thinking, “What do I even use it for?” Well, let me break it down for you with a few quick and easy wins that can benefit anyone, regardless of your job or role.As AI continues to advance at a breakneck pace, I’m finding more and more ways to incorporate it into everyday tasks. The possibilities are expanding, but let’s start with some simple, no-brainer applications that you can dive into right now.<h3>1. AI-Powered Websites: Build Fast, Look Sharp </h3>If you’ve ever struggled with getting a website up and running, AI is about to make your life a whole lot easier. AI website builders are the new MVPs, allowing you to create slick, professional-looking sites in no time, without needing to write a single line of code. All you need is the ability to write, drag, and drop.Whether you’re showcasing your business, your personal brand, or even your latest side hustle, AI has got your back. I used it to create the baah.life website. Sure, it might not be the best website in the world (I’m no web designer), but it’s up, it’s functional, and it looks pretty damn good if I do say so myself.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-4kdx113bd9lztmcktc"><img id="4kdx113bd9lztmcktc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/d0R9dsk2PY9hRZqO0pIUAxzeXN0wUOfbRWzhD7qZylgMf0se2mse2x5tEBLyXy53.jpg" alt="person holding pencil near laptop computer" title="person holding pencil near laptop computer" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/d0R9dsk2PY9hRZqO0pIUAxzeXN0wUOfbRWzhD7qZylgMf0se2mse2x5tEBLyXy53.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 50%;"></figure><h3>2. AI for Automating Processes: Streamline Everything</h3>Automation is the name of the game in today’s fast-paced world. With AI, you can easily set up automated processes that trigger actions based on specific conditions or logic flows. Imagine having tasks completed automatically—no more manual inputs or constant oversight.I’ve been diving deep into this, spending hours learning how to set up these automated workflows. The potential here is massive, and honestly, it’s fascinating. You can automate everything from simple tasks like sending emails to more complex operations like managing customer interactions or processing orders. It’s a game-changer for productivity.<figure id="figure-u6v70fhsplztmi77k"><img id="u6v70fhsplztmi77k" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27FHBc9X6DV8UikPrjnwykFUyaHXopswm7hGJszhVDGncYkZSqOuTzo0gBTTWoY1.jpg" alt="black smartphone near person" title="black smartphone near person" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27FHBc9X6DV8UikPrjnwykFUyaHXopswm7hGJszhVDGncYkZSqOuTzo0gBTTWoY1.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>3. AI in Content Creation: Content, Done Right </h3>Content creation used to be time-consuming, but not anymore. AI tools like ChatGPT (and others like Claude or Gemini) can whip up blog posts, social media content, newsletters, and more in a matter of minutes. The best part? You don’t have to be a seasoned writer to produce high-quality content.Of course, you’ll want to review and tweak the output to ensure it matches your voice and message. But the heavy lifting? That’s handled. In fact, after I finish writing this, I’m going to ask ChatGPT to polish it up for the BAAH blog. So, if you’re reading this there, you’re seeing the AI-enhanced version!<figure id="figure-kj0k5su94lztmk2hx"><img id="kj0k5su94lztmk2hx" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bhCBTC6iwy1y1dMxZkeIqrY4K3UdjADPrJtgdkXe06bxMnt0La5cVkSj3zQS0wD.jpg" alt="person using laptop" title="person using laptop" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 80% 10%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="80%" data-positiony="10%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bhCBTC6iwy1y1dMxZkeIqrY4K3UdjADPrJtgdkXe06bxMnt0La5cVkSj3zQS0wD.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 80% 10%;"></figure><h3>4. AI for Visuals &amp; Design: Create Without the Crayons </h3>Let’s face it—most of us aren’t graphic designers. But with AI, you don’t have to be. There are AI tools out there that can generate stunning visuals, videos, and graphics that look like they were made by a pro. Whether you need images for your website, social media, or marketing materials, AI can help you create visuals that stand out.No more stick figures or fumbling around in Photoshop. You can get professional-grade results without needing to know how to draw a straight line.<figure id="figure-3pa0o63kjelztmm8y6"><img id="3pa0o63kjelztmm8y6" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2f6fEYbx6gUMTXFuKryNFehYkMSXNFVt7Rip8OODlCvn0WnpdkuZYfESlzXqKcJ0.jpg" alt="low angle photo of city high rise buildings during daytime" title="low angle photo of city high rise buildings during daytime" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 75%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="75%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2f6fEYbx6gUMTXFuKryNFehYkMSXNFVt7Rip8OODlCvn0WnpdkuZYfESlzXqKcJ0.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 75%;"></figure><h2>key outputs ⚠️</h2>Get in the Game: AI is Here to Stay My advice? Get yourself and your team in the game. Allow your employees, colleagues, or even just yourself to spend some time playing around with these AI tools. The more you understand and experiment with AI, the better you’ll be at leveraging it to improve your business.The truth is, AI is going to be a major part of how we operate moving forward. If you don’t jump on board now, you might find yourself left behind. <blockquote>🤞Personally, with what I’m trying to do with BAAH, if I don’t succeed at leveraging AI, I’m toast—burned out, out of business, or worse.</blockquote>So here’s the bottom line: Get into AI, start experimenting, and watch how it transforms your business operations. The future is now, and AI is the tool that’s going to help you navigate it. Don’t miss out—your success might just depend on it.Let’s Wrap It Up: AI isn’t some distant, futuristic technology—it’s here, it’s accessible, and it’s ready to work for you. Whether it’s building a website, automating processes, creating content, or designing visuals, AI has the potential to streamline your work and help you achieve more with less effort.So, what are you waiting for? Dive in, explore, and see how AI can revolutionize the way you work. Trust me, once you start, you won’t want to stop. And if you’re curious to see how AI can be applied in real-time, keep an eye on the BAAH blog—we’re just getting started.

AI for YOU

option 1, option 2, option 3. Signpost on wooden table

Hey BAAH Fam!Building a new business every month is a thrilling journey, but it's not without its challenges. On a <a data-mce-href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7201570968295649282" href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7201570968295649282" title="Challenge #1: Corporate Identity" target="_blank" rel="noopener">previous post on LinkedIn</a>, I wrote about the first one I encountered, about Corporate Identity.&nbsp; Today, I wanted to speak about another hurdle I face, which is choosing the right business idea at the right time. Let's dive into this topic and explore the ups and downs of this crucial step.In the last 10 days, while starting what was supposed to be a new business, I have been changing my mind constantly: Is it the right business or just the right time? I’ve modified the plan countless times. And by "THE PLAN," I mean simply deciding WHAT TO DO 😁.<figure id="figure-vbbg9diujclx0gaet7" class=""><iframe id="vbbg9diujclx0gaet7" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0dTxdxWtajc" class="w-full bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtube.com/shorts/0dTxdxWtajc?feature=share" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0dTxdxWtajc" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>Identifying the right idea can be tricky. Sometimes it feels like I'm stuck at step zero, brainstorming endlessly and researching markets. The pressure to pick a winning idea can be intense, especially with tight timelines.<h3>Adapting to External Factors 🌍 </h3>One of the biggest challenges is dealing with external factors. Market trends shift, consumer preferences change, and new competitors emerge. Staying adaptable is crucial. I need to be able to pivot quickly, whether it’s tweaking the business model, adjusting the product offering, or even scrapping an idea altogether and starting fresh.<h3>Flexibility in Decision Making 💡 </h3>Another challenge is the need for flexibility in decision-making. As a solo entrepreneur, I must be agile, making quick decisions based on the latest data and feedback. This can be exhausting but is necessary for staying relevant and responsive. Sometimes, it feels like I'm running in circles, but it’s all part of the process.<h3>Dealing with Bottlenecks 😱 </h3>External bottlenecks can slow down progress and push to another month further down the line the businesses roadmap I had initially set. Whether it's delays from suppliers, waiting for samples, or testing phases that take longer than expected, these hurdles can be frustrating. They require constant problem-solving and contingency planning. I’ve learned to expect the unexpected and always have a plan B (and sometimes a plan C and D!).<h3>Managing Third-Party Dependencies 🤝 </h3>Relying on third parties adds another layer of complexity. From logistics partners, to friends, partners, or other members of the BAAH community that will play an important role in one or another business. Any hiccup on their end can impact my timeline. Building strong relationships and maintaining open communication with these partners is essential. It’s a balancing act to ensure everything runs smoothly and on time. <blockquote>Most importantly, those third-party and partners, don't have the same timelines than me, they have not put themselves into this battle of having to have set it up in less than 8 days 😅&nbsp;</blockquote><h3>Embracing Change and New Ideas 💡 </h3>Sometimes, the challenge comes from within. I might have a change of mind or come up with a better idea halfway through the process. This can derail plans but also lead to more innovative solutions. Embracing these changes and being willing to pivot is crucial for growth and success.In some cases, while speaking with a friend, colleague, partner, client... as much they can become a bottle-neck, as they can ignite a new idea that comes to the top of the list!<h3>Looking Back and Moving Forward </h3>So far, it’s the 4th of June, and I’ve spent one out of eight (1/8) days preparing and working on things that won’t happen (yet). It might feel inefficient, but these efforts are part of the process. Eventually, I hope to look back on those eight hours and see them making sense in the coming months. 🤞<h3>Engaging with the Community</h3>At BAAH, I believe in the power of community. Sharing my journey, the highs and lows, with you all keeps me grounded and motivated. I want to hear your stories, your ideas, and your experiences. Let’s learn and grow together, making each month’s business venture better than the last.Building a business a month is no easy feat, but with resilience, creativity, and a dash of flexibility, I’m optimist that I will make it happen! Thanks for being a part of my journey!Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with me in the <a data-mce-href="https://baah.life/#:~:text=baah_life-,Get%20in%20touch,-Do%20you%20have" href="https://baah.life/#:~:text=baah_life-,Get%20in%20touch,-Do%20you%20have" title="Contact me:" target="_blank" rel="noopener">contact section of the website</a>, of reach out to me on <a data-mce-href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/imunozbilbao" href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/imunozbilbao" title="Inigo Munoz Bilbao LinkedIn Page" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn!</a>Cheers, Íñigo Muñoz Bilbao

Challenge #2: Choosing the right business

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Before I start, I believe it is important to highlight my mantra at work : <blockquote>“Add value and make life easier for the client and the rest of the stakeholders</blockquote> Remember that as it applies to every step, move, and action that you take in managing a project, and other aspects of your life for that matter ✨.&nbsp;Effective project management is essential for success in today's fast-paced business environment. We believe in going the extra mile, what we call Smart Project management, that combines strategic planning, effective communication, and continuous improvement.Throughout this article, I will share some insights and best practices on how to manage projects effectively. From defining clear goals to leveraging technology and fostering teamwork, we will cover all aspects of Smart project management.&nbsp;No matter if you are an external (consultant/agency), or an internal project manager, you will find this content helpful to deal with the client (yes, the client can be within your company even if the service is not outsourced). <h3>PREPARATION - SCOPE:&nbsp;</h3>One of the key and often overlooked aspects of managing a project is a clearly defined and agreed-upon scope and expectations.&nbsp; 1. Define Clear Goals and Objectives: Start by clearly defining the project's goals and objectives. This will serve as a roadmap and keep everyone focused. a) I like to do this by defining an overarching Mission that answers the question: &nbsp;“What do we want to accomplish?”.&nbsp; I.e. To become a proud employer of choice for our colleagues b) Then it is time to identify your objectives. They need to be aligned with the vision. Following the previous example, it could be something along the lines of i) understanding what are our employee’s priorities ii) creating an app for them to share their feelings and monitor and track their moods and status&nbsp; c) “What success looks like”. It should be quantifiable, and this helps us define targets and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that we will monitor throughout &nbsp;the project and that we will be accountable for. List those objectives ie. For objective i) we want to survey 100% of the employees and find 3 key topics to focus on. For objective ii) To have a satisfaction improvement of 2 points per month, with a target of BEST EMPLOYER in the industry by 2026. d) Define which activities we are going to do, in which sequence and the timeline, so that we know what to focus on. If there are new activities/actions, that do not help us get closer to a) and b), we should disregard them and deprioritize them for a later stage.2. Define the team, and its roles &amp; responsibilities: Be clear on who can help move the needle when some topics are stuck, or when support or extra resources are needed… and most importantly: what is to be done and by which team. In the case of external consultants, it is of huge value to properly define who on the client’s side will be helping you in the project, as they bring a sounding board and some expertise in different areas that may become critical for the project’s development.&nbsp;3. Define the budget: If not you will end up overspending. Make sure that in the agreed budget you are forecasting everything that you will need and be as accurate as possible in foreseeing the time which will be spent. You want to avoid having to come with budget reviews to the client or sponsor. Spending time on this part of the planning will pay off. &nbsp;<h3>DURING: Alignment and touch-points</h3>4. Effective Communication: Open communication is crucial. Regularly update your team on progress, challenges, and any changes in plans. Depending on the nature of the project, weekly or bi-weekly touchpoints are helpful. They can be as short as 15’ but you want to make sure the right people are offering you guidance so that it's not too late to rectify.&nbsp;5. Monitor and Evaluate: Continuously monitor and evaluate your project's progress. This will help you identify areas for improvement and stay on track.&nbsp; Here, the KPIs defined in the Scope will help you have tangible and measurable topics to look into and keep things relatable so that we don’t start deviating from what to look into and where to focus our actions.&nbsp; 6. Prioritize and Manage Tasks: Prioritize tasks based on their importance and urgency, and allocate resources accordingly. It is not infrequent that the project needs change mid-way, that the client changes direction, or that you realize there are better things to focus on that would require some updates on the agreed actions. Do a quick sanity check with the client/sponsor and make sure the priorities and time spent can be reallocated to what matters. And, dismiss/push for later what does not.&nbsp; Some things are nice to have, and others are clear needs. Differentiate between those with the help of the other stakeholders and find convergence.&nbsp; 7. Risk Management: Anticipate and plan for potential risks to minimize disruptions. You want to keep time to review risks in your weekly/bi-weekly meetings. You also want that to be brief and hopefully, you are not bringing new risks every week. Those should have been prevented or tackled immediately and if you need to bring them to the client, it probably means that it is too late and you will be left wishing you had anticipated it.&nbsp; This does not mean you need to hide it. On the contrary, letting others know about potential red flags or risks is going to be crucial to becoming trustworthy. 8. Leverage Technology: Utilize project management software or tools to streamline communication, task management, and progress tracking. It makes it easier to involve people, share status dynamically without the need to prepare a deck, and delegate and align with other teammates.&nbsp; There are plenty of tools for that, some that I am familiar with and recommend are Asana, Monday.com, or Trello.&nbsp; 9. Embrace Flexibility: Be adaptable to changing circumstances and willing to make adjustments as needed. Remember the number 1 rule, “you need to bring value to the client and make their life easier”, if there are suggestions or changes in their needs, you will need to adapt so that the value continues to be there.&nbsp; Quick steering or pivoting is a strength that comes with challenges but that is of great value to the client.&nbsp; 10. Teamwork and Collaboration: Foster a collaborative work environment where team members can share ideas and support each other. We like to become colleagues of our clients, erase the client/provider barrier, and act as a team, with the same interests and values.&nbsp; I personally believe in the value of a close relationship, a personal touch, and a friendly tone. Not the most obvious approach in a very formal business world, but a preference that goes better with my DNA.&nbsp; 11. Continuous Learning: Continuously learn and improve your project management skills through training and experience. Nothing is set in stone, feedback after feedback you can tweak small ways of working that will benefit you and your clients in the execution of your projects.&nbsp; 12. Celebrate Successes: Recognize and celebrate project milestones and accomplishments to motivate your team.&nbsp; It is sometimes hard to say goodbye to a project that you have dedicated so much time and effort to. It is also hard knowing that when you are gone, they will continue without you and you will move on &nbsp;to a new project. So make sure you spend time celebrating and being proud of the accomplishments. At the same time, make sure to stay in touch with the client so that you can follow up on the status of the project once you are gone.&nbsp; In conclusion, effective project management is not just a series of tasks to be checked off a list; it's a strategic orchestration aimed at delivering value and easing the journey for all stakeholders involved. The Smart Project Management approach advocated here emphasizes clear goal-setting, open communication, proactive risk management, and fostering a collaborative environment. By adhering to these principles and leveraging the right tools, project managers can navigate the complexities of modern business landscapes with agility and efficiency.&nbsp; What do you think? Is there anything you would do differently or prefer done differently (if you are on the client’s side)? Are there additional points you would like to see explored?&nbsp; Do you like a more formal business setting or do you prefer a more outgoing approach such as the one I share in point 10? I look forward to hearing about your expectations and experiences!&nbsp;**as published on <a data-mce-href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/from-vision-victory-how-smart-project-management-%2525C3%2525AD%2525C3%2525B1igo-mu%2525C3%2525B1oz-bilbao-9ynie/?trackingId=RdZJw2rPQaCUMiN59A9B1g%3D%3D" href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/from-vision-victory-how-smart-project-management-%2525C3%2525AD%2525C3%2525B1igo-mu%2525C3%2525B1oz-bilbao-9ynie/?trackingId=RdZJw2rPQaCUMiN59A9B1g%3D%3D" title="From Vision to Victory" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>

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