So like the title says, I have creative ideas and always try to include my wife in discussions, but all she ever brings to the table is problems and negativity when we discuss things. She thinks she’s being “pragmatic” but it’s tremendously disheartening and the problems she imagines are always the absolute worst of the worst case scenarios. Everything I’ve ever read or watched when it comes to starting businesses is, just start and figure out the problems later. I’m well aware of the potential for difficulties in any endeavor, but tend to believe in myself and my ability to adapt and overcome. Has anyone else experienced this? How did you find middle ground, if at all?
I’m not in your situation but as a woman who is an entrepreneur I understand the propensity to be very risk-averse so I have been dealing a lot with a similar inner critic. You really have the chance to develop a growth mindset here and if you are able to deal with this feedback from a loved one, it will prepare you for further bigger challenges and hurdles along the way. For me, I try to use this negative pushback I get as a way to propel me forward. Again, you did not give information about what exactly she is saying but I feel so much better whenever I am able to provide data that supports my hypothesis. So data about the market size, customer need etc. It’s one thing if she doesn’t want you to start a business, it’s another thing if she is raising concerns about this business. Like most things, it is about taking incremental, low-cost steps. Communicate and draw up a financial plan. A huge part of business is about being able to manage relationships so you never want to forget the most important one.