Building A Startup Mindset: An Essential For All Studentpreneurs.

In today's world, a startup mindset is often difficult to build and this has killed the dreams of so many student entrepreneurs. 

It is not enough to have an idea. One needs to possess a blend of creativity, flexibility, and resilience in order to become a successful entrepreneur.

Creativity allows entrepreneurs to think outside the box and be innovative.

Flexibility enables them to adapt to changing circumstances and pivot when necessary. 

Being resilient is crucial for overcoming obstacles, persevering through setbacks, and maintaining the motivation to drive their venture forward. 

Together, these qualities form the foundation for building and sustaining a successful startup. Without them, even the most promising ideas may struggle to come to fruition.

Hey, Vetmily!

Welcome to ‘Studentpreneurship Series with The Editorial Board.” 

I am Pelumi, your weekly wordsmith from The Editorial Board. 

This week's topic of discussion was inspired by my personal journey as a student entrepreneur. I am currently a DVM II student, but I began my entrepreneurial ventures during my first year (100 level). 

Balancing the demands of academics and business while just entering the university was overwhelming, but I saw it as an opportunity to pursue my passion for entrepreneurship.

In my first year, I faced the challenge of managing academics alongside my business responsibilities. I suffered because I did not yet learn how to prioritize tasks and set goals. 

Of course, starting a business without a fully developed startup mindset was what made me face these challenges. 

Here are 3 major areas that were affected because I had the wrong mindset:

1. Time Management

I initially struggled to balance my academic responsibilities with the demands of running a business. This led to conflicts in prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines, affecting both my studies and the growth of my business

       2. My Resilience

These setbacks in my business felt overwhelming, and without the resilience that comes with a strong startup mindset, I found it difficult to bounce back quickly enough.

       3. My Creativity

I missed opportunities where creative thinking would have enabled me to explore better solutions. It was also quite hard trying to focus on one particular thing, and this affected my creativity a lot. 

What Would I Have Done Differently?

• Have A Well - Structured Time Management Strategy

I could have created a more structured schedule where specific time blocks are allocated for studying, business activities, and self-care, among others. 

Using tools, such as task management apps would have helped me to stay organized and reduce stress.

• Mentorship 

Finding a mentor early on could have provided valuable guidance and support. 

Frequent communication with someone who has experienced the same problems I was facing, could have helped me navigate challenges, avoid common pitfalls, and make informed decisions.

• A Growth Mindset

Embracing a growth mindset would have helped me view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow rather than setbacks. This mindset shift could have built my resilience and creativity in both my academic and my entrepreneurial endeavors.

• Self-care

It is important to maintain a healthy balance between work, studies, and personal life. Prioritizing self-care through adequate sleep, and relaxation could have improved my overall well-being and productivity.

• Goal Setting

Setting clear, achievable goals for both my studies and business would have helped me maintain focus and track progress. Breaking larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks could have made them less intimidating. 

Now, as a 300 Level student, I am still navigating the complexities of balancing academics and entrepreneurship. I must say, it isn’t easy. 

There are days when the challenges seem overwhelming, and the path forward isn't always clear. Yet, I have come to understand that if something is truly worth it, you will keep fighting to make it better.

Every day presents new opportunities to grow and improve, and I am committed to finding ways to enhance both my academic and entrepreneurial pursuits. It's important to remain adaptable and resilient, embracing the lessons learned along the way.

Remember, success is not a straight line. Stay focused on your goals, but be open to change and growth. Surround yourself with supportive people, seek guidance when needed, and never be afraid to take risks. 

Your determination and hard work will eventually lead to the outcomes you desire. Keep pushing forward, and never lose sight of the vision that drives you.

If you want a thing bad enough

To go out and fight for it,

Work day and night for it,

Give up your time and your peace and

your sleep for it.

If only desire of it

Makes you quite mad enough

Never to tire of it

Makes you hold all other things tawdry and cheap for it.

To end this episode, that is a little treat from Berton Braley’s poem titled ‘Success: A Poem’. 

It’s one of my favorite poems and truly a source of motivation. 

We will meet again. 

Till then, kisses and hugs. 

Pelumi from The Editorial Board.