Embracing Independence

Paddy Tan
3 min read2 days ago

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Yesterday, I had the opportunity to meet several participants or entrepreneur-to-be of a 1 month programme that we run with the Singapore National Library Board.

About 208 participants signed up and in the 1 to 1 session to consult those who be presenting on the coming DEMO Day, one of the most common questions asked was ‘I am going to do this alone, how can I know that I am doing the right thing and if the direction is correct?’

I don't intend to sugar coat the reality. I said you probably won’t know what is right or wrong immediately but you can be the best person to judge your business, your actions and your activities. Trust yourself.

As we navigate the complexities of life, one of the most valuable lessons we can learn is the art of independence. It’s a skill that not only enriches our personal lives but also equips us with the resilience and self-reliance needed to succeed in the world of business.

For those aspiring to run their own ventures, cultivating independence is not just beneficial, it’s essential.

Independence is more than just a mindset, it’s a way of life. It begins with taking responsibility for your actions and decisions. When you learn to rely on yourself, you develop an unshakeable sense of confidence. This confidence is the foundation upon which successful entrepreneurs build their careers. It allows them to make tough decisions, face challenges head-on, and innovate without fear of failure.

Video: https://www.tiktok.com/@paddytan1975/video/7479623105091046674

It is not easy but you have to trust yourself that you will make the right choices and at the same time make some wrong ones too. But whatever it is, you have to learn to move forward and learn from it all.

Running a business is not without its challenges, it can be very tough at times. There will be times when the path ahead seems uncertain, and it’s during these moments that independence proves to be a powerful ally. Independent individuals are adept at problem-solving and finding creative solutions to complex issues. They are not afraid to seek advice but are also comfortable trusting their instincts and making decisions that align with their vision.

Independence fosters resilience, a quality that is indispensable in the entrepreneurial journey. When faced with setbacks or failures, independent individuals are better equipped to bounce back. They understand that every failure is an opportunity to learn and grow, and they use these experiences to refine their strategies and push forward with renewed determination.

Independence also empowers innovation. When you’re not bound by the constraints of conventional thinking, you’re free to explore new ideas and pursue unconventional solutions. This freedom to innovate is what sets successful businesses apart from the rest. Independent entrepreneurs are not afraid to challenge the status quo and pioneer new paths, which often leads to groundbreaking achievements.

Learning to be independent encourages a growth mindset too. A belief that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This mindset is crucial for entrepreneurs, as it allows usto continuously learn, adapt, and evolve alongside their business. By embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, independent entrepreneurs stay ahead of the curve and remain competitive in a rapidly changing business landscape.

In the end, independence is not just about standing alone; it’s about standing strong. It’s about having the courage to pursue your dreams, even when the road ahead is uncertain. For those who aspire to run their own businesses, cultivating independence is not just a skill , it’s a necessity. It’s the key that unlocks your full potential, allowing you to innovate, adapt, and thrive in the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship.

By embracing independence, you’re not just preparing yourself to run a business , you’re preparing yourself for a life of purpose, resilience, and unbridled success. So, take the first step today. Empower yourself with the gift of independence, and watch your entrepreneurial dreams unfold into a reality that surpasses your wildest expectations.

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Paddy Tan
Paddy Tan

Written by Paddy Tan

I help Startups grow and scale in Southeast Asia. Within 100 days. Growth Strategist | Investor in Startups and SMEs | Scale Startups & Train Founders.

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