BEYOND THE SLOPES WITH LINDSEY VONN

As I think about my future, I’m at a place to explore what follows my career in competitive skiing as an entrepreneur. As I continue to learn from so many business owners who have found success, I know starting a business takes hard work, discipline and determination. Here are a few principles that have helped me find success in competitive skiing that I hope you will find inspiring as you continue to grow your business:

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH SMART COACHES

You might see me solo on the slopes, but there are countless people there beside me – including my coaches, mentors and family. In fact, my ski career started when I was a toddler thanks to my grandfather who founded our local ski club. I was lucky to be born into a family of mentors, but I learned a lot from finding the right coaches and support system. Same for your business – work with mentors regularly. Every week, focus on one skill you want to sharpen and meet with your mentor, attend a training or look for other ways to hone that skill and grow.

PUSH BOUNDARIES-THE ONES SET BY OTHERS AND YOURSELF

Small business owners take risks every day. Falling, or as I like to say, failing forward, is a critical part of growth. Every time I fall in practice, I get up and learn what not to do in competition. Starting, growing and maintaining a business is so much trial and error and figuring out what doesn’t work. That’s how you learn what does work. And this holds true no matter where you’re at in your business. I’ve been skiing for 30 years, and I’m still figuring out what works.

EMBRACE MOMENTUM AND USE IT TO OVERCOME OBSTACLES

One of the first things I learned in downhill skiing is the importance of embracing momentum. Even though it can be scary, you have to use the forward momentum to push you through the flats. And honestly, that’s a big part of why I’m building my network of business mentors. I want to use all the momentum I’ve gained to launch myself into what’s next. Really think about what inspires you and drives your passion for your business, and use that endurance to get through the long days.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP

When I started skiing, I couldn’t even get on the chair lift without my grandfather’s help. I have that same humility when it comes to what’s next for my career. I don’t know what exactly is ahead for me, but I know I can’t do it alone! And no one can do it alone. That’s why I’m excited to call on Chase Ink and other small business experts as I explore what’s next.

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