TCFBO #035: Embracing the Unknown

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Today, we’d love to share a fascinating concept called "negative capability”.

It’s a term which was originally coined by the poet John Keats.

And although Keats talked about it in relation to the arts and literature, we’ve found it’s incredibly relevant for small business owners.

Especially in a world that is changing as fast as things are currently.

At its core, negative capability in business is about thriving in uncertainty and ambiguity.

It's about being adaptable, ready to pivot without needing absolute certainty.

It’s about getting comfortable with not knowing how things will be accomplished, just that they will be.

Imagine you're sailing a boat.

You know your ultimate destination.

And if you could guarantee clear skies and a calm ocean for the entirety of the voyage then you would know exactly how you were going to reach it.

But nature doesn’t offer those kinds of guarantees.

It throws up storms and fog and unexpected obstacles.

And when it does, you adjust the sails and use your instincts and experience to guide you and keep on moving.

That's negative capability.

It's a mindset that embraces the unknown.

It sees the unknown as an opportunity for innovation and creative problem-solving, rather than something to fear.

When challenges arise, (which they always do), having this mindset is invaluable.

It allows you to stay resilient and find ways to move forward without getting hung up on the perfect solution.

As one of our mentors often reminds us:

“It doesn’t need to be perfect. Good enough is good enough”.

It also means being able to maintain your focus and drive even when facing criticism and doubts from those around you.

It's about having the emotional strength to keep moving towards your goals, no matter what gets thrown at you.

Having this capability as the leader of your business really is like having a superpower.

Because, leading your team with openness and encouraging a culture where ideas flow freely, collaboration is natural, and innovation thrives, is rocket fuel for your business!

The challenge is being able to strike a balance where you value the input of those who are supporting you and are still able to remain true to your vision.

Embracing such a mindset where the unknown is seen as an opportunity will transform how you approach life's uncertainties.

Because sometimes strength comes, not from having all the answers, but in simply having the courage to take the next step.

Let us know how you get on and we’ll see you next week.

Paul & Philly

Whenever you’re ready, there are three ways we can help you:

1. Grab a copy of Paul’s book “Backwards Planning - A Simple Method to Move You and Your Business Forward” to discover how to reverse engineer a life and business you truly love.

2. Book a facilitated “Life Vision Session” to start creating a life and business that are fully aligned with your heart’s desires. We’ll arrange a pre-session call with you to say “Hi”, explain how the Life Vision Session works and answer any questions you may have.

3. Apply to join “The Clear Focus Business Academy” to ensure your business is the most effective it can be at providing the money and lifestyle you desire. Simply drop us an email or contact us here to tell us you’re interested and we’ll send you more info.