Lucid in Review - The First Year of Business and 5 Lessons We’ve Learned
It has been almost exactly a year now since Shaffer and I decided Lucid Cause was going to be our focus. The business and our personal lives have seen many ups and downs over the last 365 days. Looking back, we wouldn't trade the fluctuations in highs and lows for anything.
We have grown, failed, and triumphed, all while having a blast.
As both Shaffer and I look back on the previous year, we are astonished by the things we have learned along the journey.
Below is a list of five things the last year has taught us. If you are a business owner, aspiring creative, or just a fan of the lucid brand, we hope these items prove to be helpful.
1. Your Mindset is Everything
The mind is a tricky part of the human experience. It is continually trying to make sense of the ever-changing world in which we live. In doing so, it sometimes displays an inaccurate perception of reality. Because of this, it is essential to know yourself well. Learn to recognize when the negative part of your mind is taking over and distorting the truth.
Henry Ford once said, "Whether you think you can or you can't - you're right."
Lucid Cause has had times where we weren't sure how we would make certain aspects of the business work. We knew, however, that there was a solution waiting to be discovered. It took the right mindset and attitude to help open our eyes and see all the possible outcomes waiting to be utilized.
Focus on what you know to be true. Don't let the mind run amok and deceive you.
2. Overcoming Setbacks is Part of the Fun
Let me clarify - setbacks are not fun. They test your strength and mindset. Overcoming those setbacks, however, is where one's character is built.
Living a comfortable, carefree life sounds nice on the surface. No responsibilities and no struggles - what could be better?
Unfortunately, such a lifestyle leaves us feeling empty and without value. You are merely existing without any real driving force.
The feeling of overcoming a negative experience is invigorating.
I am not saying you should actively seek out setbacks. They will happen on their own, trust me. But when they do, don't act with emotion. Instead, recognize them and use them as a way to build your personal strength.
3. Allow Room for Leisure
The "world" will tell you success comes to those who work hard at whatever cost. While working hard is absolutely an essential ingredient for success, you should still balance it with plenty of time to relax and look within.
If you want to really make an impact in any industry, then you have to be willing to let go of the so-called "grind."
This is especially true for creators - of any kind. If you want to produce your best work, then allowing time to let go and have fun will open all sorts of creative avenues not recognized before.
Shaffer and I are notorious for taking spontaneous trips or disappearing out into the mountains to refocus and reset.
4. Have a Plan But Be Willing to Adapt
There is a saying attributed to Benjamin Franklin which says, "If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail."
My personality is one that likes to plan and stick to a path. Shaffer, on the other hand, is a proponent of letting the "current" direct us while making the best of it along the way.
Both ideals have their values. What we have been able to do is combine our two perspectives into one - balancing each other out.
In business and life, it is crucial to have a vision of where you want to be and a path to get you there. Unfortunately, even if you have a clear goal and objectives in place, varying circumstances will inevitably force you to change direction.
When such instances happen, if you are so attached to your plan, then you don't allow for any flexibility to get yourself back on track. It is good to have a plan set in place, but know you will most likely have to change course at a certain point.
5. Provide Value for Others
Last but not least, always always always provide value for others.
Business can and should be a force for good. It is a way to provide products and services to others that ultimately supply a useful function or bring joy to their lives. Selfish gains and the false promise of a lavish lifestyle should not be the reason to start a business. That is when you get into trouble.
If you are always on the lookout for ways to improve someone else's life, then good things will happen in return.
Shaffer and I would not be doing what we are doing if it weren't for our friends, family, and supporters like you. Our goal is to provide significant value to the clients we work with and the people who enjoy following the journey.
Lucid Loves You!
Also, shoutout to a couple of our close friends, Payson and Eric for taking the photos featured in this blog.