For several weeks now, the daily life of each of us has been completely transformed. This is particularly the case for many entrepreneurs. Knowing how to reinvent oneself has now become a veritable leitmotif in order to ensure the sustainability of our businesses. What if, in this context of change, we went back to basics in order to question our way of doing things, to review and refine the DNA of our business and to set up a solid foundation for the future?

Whether you are in the start-up, growth phase or have reached cruising speed, now is the best time to ask questions and think differently. Let's make the most of this pandemic and take the time to rethink our strategy, to make sure that our values ​​are aligned with those of our business and our customers.

1. Determine how you feel
All these changes, all these uncertainties bring their share of stress. Even before considering a thinking process, ask yourself the question; what are the emotions I am currently feeling? Name them.

"The more words you put on what you feel, the more your emotion decreases in intensity," says Myriam Plamondon, coach of great leaders and expert in psychometric assessment in an article published on LinkedIn. By identifying your emotions, you will be able to better manage them and thus find the right tools to deal with them. It’s important to be able to recognize your emotional stress, so you don’t give it the power to manage your life or your business.

2. Determine who you are, what you do and why
Each entrepreneur often has a business plan in hand that demonstrates their short, medium and long-term vision. Even in regular times, however, a business plan evolves at great speed. Take advantage of this slowdown to review the positioning of your company, your vision, your mission, your ways of doing things. List what you like as well as what you dislike. Does serving your customers make you happy? Learn from the past and focus on what you can finally solve that will help you become more efficient. Ask yourself if your “why” is still relevant. Revisit it. Everyone is called to evolve. Your business too.

3. Determine who needs your services, what you want them to think of you, and how you will achieve this
Knowing who you're talking to is key. As your business evolves, however, routine sets in. Decisions are made, and sometimes they are not necessarily aligned with the company's DNA. Life goes by fast. Who is your target customer? How do you talk to him? What does it say about you? What feedback loops exist to consider the comments received?

This is a reflection applicable to your daily life as an entrepreneur. Remember that it’s impossible to move forward without being aware of who you are, your mission and vision for your business. Without knowing this, you will not be able to face the roller coaster of entrepreneurship.

The Committee of New Entrepreneurs of the Chamber of Commerce of Laval was created to help entrepreneurs who want to launch a business take their place in the Laval business environment.