Arch Collective Is Three! Lessons Learned Over the Last Year
On November 1, 2022, it was time to say happy birthday to Arch Collective, which is now three years old! After the company’s first year, I took some time to evaluate the lessons I’d learned in those first 12 months. At that time, I was thinking about the challenges and opportunities of being a female business owner and developing and cultivating resiliency. That last point has certainly stood the company in good stead throughout the pandemic and into this current economic situation — we all need a little resiliency right now! So, what lessons has another year running Arch Collective taught me? This year, it’s all about growth, success, and finding balance.
Surround Yourself With a Great Board of Directors
This doesn’t have to be a formal arrangement. Even a solo entrepreneur should have their own “board” of people they trust who can challenge them, provide new and differing perspectives, and are ultimately invested in you and your potential. Surround yourself with people who help you grow. Speaking of which...
Growth Can Be Uncomfortable
I have come so far in three years, but like every driven person, I still have so far to go. Every day provides new opportunities to learn, grow, and develop myself. However, it’s in those moments of growth that I often find the most discomfort. This is totally normal, and it’s because growth is a form of change. Yogapedia likens overall growth to stretching a muscle. If the muscle never moves or changes, it might stay comfortable in the short term, but it will be weak and of little use. Exercise and stretching can bring discomfort, but the rewards are more than worth it. It’s the same in any career — stepping outside your comfort zone is more than just a cliché. Try new things, follow through on new ideas, and be prepared to change your outlook. The discomfort that comes with this means you’re undergoing development.
Run Your Own Race
It’s easy to compare your successes with your peers or competitors. It seems like there are always those who are more successful, but don’t fall into the trap of constant comparison. Instead, draw inspiration or motivation from those you admire, and make sure you’re running your own race. You are the only one who knows what you need to do to reach your destination. There are, of course, times when tapping into the world around you is vital — just don’t get distracted. Copying and comparing lead to you creating a shadow of someone else’s success rather than growing in the light of your own achievements.
It’s Okay to Try Something and Fail
Every failure is an opportunity to learn and grow. It is okay to try something and fail. Over the past year, I’ve leaned into creating TikToks and Instagram Reels. Although I have seen plenty of engagement and comments, these weren’t coming from my target audience. Because of this, I made a conscious decision to stop investing in this part of my marketing. Clearly, it didn’t have the desired effect. However, I now understand TikTok and IG reels better and can divert my time, energy and resources into more effective channels. Sometimes things simply don’t work out. It’s more than okay to stop and pivot.
Take Time for Life Outside Your Career
I love Arch Collective, and working with startups is my passion, but I also have two small children who need me — and vice versa. It’s so easy to get caught up in your career and forget to take time for other things. Over the last few months, I’ve intentionally spent more time with my kids. This has included volunteering at their schools, shutting down any work during family vacations, and making sure my focus was really on them when we spent time together. It’s amazing how much this attitude has helped me and my business. When I’m at work, I’m able to focus more easily. Plus, my kids and I now have all these lovely memories together. Finding a perfect balance is rarely achievable, but prioritizing and making time for the important moments has helped me find more peace
Final Word
What an amazing three years it’s been! Getting to work with some of the most inspirational clients, plus a collective of talented creatives and marketers, is such a great privilege. If you want to know more about how Arch Collective can help take your startup to the next level growth-wise, book a 15-minute introductory call, and we’ll discuss which of our targeted propositions is right for you.
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