Q Communications celebrated its first year anniversary on 29 April 2015. As a young Asian female entrepreneur, I am glad to have survived the first year in business. With tremendous help and support from all, as well as a healthy dose of courage and conviction, here are three important lessons I learnt as a bootstrapping business owner.

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1. It takes a village to make a business successful.

In all honesty, taking that elusive first leap of faith was just the beginning. Subsequently, it all depended on how I maneuvered the business landscape, which was filled with complex human relationships. From key investors’ financial funding, family and friends’ moral encouragement, logistical support and all things in between, to the trust and belief in my caliber from the media, clients and suppliers – this was the most fascinating part of running a knowledge-based business.

Quickly, I came to realize that every opportunity contributed towards ensuring that the business did its best to live up to expectations and continuously prove that, hey, this young Asian female is worth a shot!

2. Never lose sight of that singular vision the business has to offer.

Right from the start, Q Communications was clearly set up to provide small and medium businesses the type of quality execution required to meet their marketing and communications needs. As the face of the company, this meant that I strived to deliver the brand promise in every situation, articulating the value proposition we offered, with clarity and unwavering conviction. This eventually led to buy-in from clients and strategic partners.

3. You are your best friend, and also, your worst enemy.

Last but not least, recognizing that the mind is a powerful thing has to be the greatest challenge of all. When in doubt, it can slip into a never-ending abyss of negativity and self-criticism. At the same time, it can be your greatest cheerleader, reinforcing your self-confidence, rising up to the many challenges faced. Whatever happens, the mind is the first to be there, and the last to leave. This has led me to adopt a healthier lifestyle that takes care of the mind and body, just so it functions at its optimal best on a daily basis.

Here’s to many more entrepreneurial lessons in the years to come!

Images: www.stocksnap.io

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