An ostrich with its head in the sand is an interesting analogy for me to apply to business owners, even if it is somewhat of an overused cliché. Put simply, the metaphor is all about denial, sensing danger and avoiding it. However, this is a completely useless defence strategy and any knowledgeable ornithologist will confirm this as a popular misconception. Ostriches actually don’t put their heads in sand but some business owners do... It’s all about avoiding problems and anything uncomfortable, whether you are a metaphorical ostrich or not.
When thinking about why some business owners reach out to business coaches like myself and why some don’t, it’s certainly useful to keep such a clichéd metaphor in mind.
So, what can the ostrich teach us about risk? Probably a similar lesson that the pandemic taught the world. Lack of awareness and preparation is a big part of why natural disasters and catastrophic world events occur, including pandemics. Such calamities leave chaos behind and sit as firm reminders that it’s not always the problem itself that is harmful, it's our reaction to it and perception of it.
‘Ostrich syndrome’ often plays out as a business owner attempting to avoid anything negative, risky or potentially harmful. There’s a chance that he or she is at conflict with themselves and regularly affirms that:
“I’m scared...”
“I’m too embarrassed…”
“I’m a failure…”
“I don’t have the time to do that…”
“It costs too much!”
“I don’t even like the business anymore so what’s the point (Technically the dwindling of a once passionate love affair…)
Hubris*, frustration*, confusion*
(*Nobody really admits to feeling these emotions but they really exist, trust me.)
Some business owners are just at a crossroads and the sand in some directions makes for the digging of an even easier hole. Cue even more confusion!
But what if you are the type of person who is none of the above? What if you:
+ seek clarity and perspective?
+ aim to build more confidence in you and your team?
+ want a plan that ensures greater resilience?
+ need a vision and exit strategy?
+ desperately want the enviable “lifestyle” that you see other business owners have?
Or… What if you just want to fall back in love with your business?
Getting back on track and seeking professional, supportive advice and coaching is nothing to be ashamed of. I often reflect back to the nursery days of my first business and I have certainly experienced ‘ostrich syndrome’ but I have also asked for help from someone like me, too.
Reach out now for a free consultation.
Finally…
“Whenever you see a successful business, someone once made a courageous decision.” - Peter F Trucker
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