The Cash Flow Mindset


I refer to this overall business mindset as your “Cash Flow Mindset”.

Before you do anything else you should evaluate where your brain is at.

First, I wrote about the Entrepreneurial Mindset and how it is just one layer of your overall business mindset.

  • You realize that you will fail more than you succeed.
  • You know that failure is a chance to learn from your mistakes, not to quit.
  • You are not afraid of failure.
  • You see opportunity everywhere.
  • You do not need 100% certainty to act.
  • You know that it takes work to be successful and it will not happen overnight.
  • You have a long term outlook.
  • You are ready to do the uncomfortable.

In my last article I talked about hitting your business sweet spot, which is another layer.

  • “Hitting the sweet spot” mindset requires you to accept that most of your time and effort should be doing activities that generate money.
  • Another thing you need to accept is that you will not always hit the sweet spot.

However there are even more layers to this Cash Flow mindset that you need to accept before you start your business.

  • You are in business to increase your cash flow.
  • You need to provide value to your customers even though there may not be an obvious payback.
  • Do not become attached to any particular outcome.
  • Accept that you need to plan and set goals.
  • Be coachable.
  • Don’t let criticism sidetrack you.
  • Treat your business like a business, not a hobby.
  • Listen first.
  • Think Big.

It is not enough to just read the above, you have to read it, believe it and live it.

Refer to your home office as your office.

Get Business Cards.

Set working hours and stick to them.

Find a coach.

Create a business plan.

Take Action.

Peter Fuller MBA CA
Peter Fuller MBA CA
905-566-1927

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Related posts:

  1. How To Hit Your Business Sweet Spot
  2. How to obtain the Entrepreneurial Mindset
  3. Cash Contest for Blogging on ComLuv and FamousBloggers
  4. My first YouTube Video: IRS does not say that Cash Gifting is legal
  5. What I love about Network Marketing as a Home Business Solution
  1. #1 by Wayne on February 18, 2012 - 11:14 pm

    And, also, if you’re going to be working from home, always get dressed and look presentable.
    Wayne’s latest post Design a Cover Too – Madden NFL in Adobe Photoshop

  2. #2 by Doug Gene on January 18, 2012 - 1:48 am

    This is some very realistic and important information. Another strong post, Peter.
    Doug Gene’s latest post Outdoor Play Coupon Code Discount and Review

  3. #3 by RJ Ulbricht on December 27, 2011 - 9:13 am

    Thanks Peter -
    “Treat your business like a business, not a hobby.” In the past, I guess I tried to reinforce this as much as any concept when working with my downline. So true, but neglected by most.
    Strange thing – when I was getting my MBA, not one instructor ever mentioned the 80/20 rule. Is that something you have ever endorsed?
    RJ Ulbricht’s latest post New Hurricane Tree Removal and Clean Up Page

  4. #4 by Raena Lynn on November 13, 2011 - 3:56 pm

    Peter, I love your “to the point” posts. The three lists are gold! I will definitely go back and visit Entrepreneurial Mindset, and Hitting your business sweet spot . This post is obviously a summation of your previous posts on mindset. This is a great way to give those of us who may have missed them an opportunity to visit and comment!

    Every suggestion makes sense and vital to your overall performance as an internet marketer. Cash flow is the name of the game and without it, you are stagnant.

    I’d like to comment on this quote, “Do not become attached to any particular outcome.” I think when we become attached; it gets us in all kinds of trouble, especially with mindset. It messes up everything from fearing success, fearing failure, setting goals, wasting time, and quitting. This particular challenge must be overcome. Thanks again.

    Raena Lynn
    Raena Lynn’s latest post Living Synergistically And Turning On The Spigot

  5. #5 by Emma on October 26, 2011 - 8:19 am

    Hi Peter,

    Great advice! Getting our heads in to the best mindset for success is essential, I really like your no nonsense approach.

    Gosh, setting working hours is my biggest struggle and I do this full time!! I’d be terrible in a real job – I do think I would have gotten farther quicker if I was more discipline though!

    Thank you,

    Emma :-)

  6. #6 by Marcus T Cox on October 22, 2011 - 6:00 pm

    I hear the term “fake it till you make it” and maybe I am just hearing it wrong but it never really made sense to me. Why fake anything, either you are or you are not. I found that the best way to measure yourself is to be honest with yourself. So if your mindset is not where it needs to be, then you are just faking it. TTYL

  7. #7 by Dereck on October 17, 2011 - 3:58 pm

    Peter,

    I love all of your mini series blog postings. It gives the reader something to anticipate and also recap with as the learning experience continues.

    Always a pleasure coming here and reading your stuff. Keep up the good work!

    -Dereck

    P.S. Important note about your posting… you said “Find A Coach”… I couldn’t agree more!

    Thanks!
    Dereck’s latest post LegalShield – Protecting With Pre Paid Legal Services

  8. #8 by Yorinda on October 12, 2011 - 9:34 pm

    Hi Peter,

    you are addressing a great topic here.

    Our mindset it so important! I love your points about the Entrepreneurs mindet as well as the one for cashflow.
    One angle I have been looking at lately is how our ‘egoic mind’ seems to sabotage all the good intentions. To over come that we can grow in awareness of our old conditioning and gently recondition it.

    Thank you for sharing this.
    To your Success,
    Yorinda
    Yorinda’s latest post Forgiveness and Feelings

  9. #9 by velli marwan on October 6, 2011 - 10:12 pm

    Thanks, great post Peter. One of the things that I have worked very diligently over the last few years is to increase my cash flow. You’ve come this far but I have not even thought about it.
    velli marwan’s latest post Check PR Hari ini Menjadi (N/A) – Imbas dari Perubahan API Google PR

  10. #10 by Holly on October 6, 2011 - 6:25 pm

    Perfect timing for me Peter!! I know this stuff, but it has been hibernating a little lately.. The ebb and flow of progress.. thanks for the great lists and I will be back to review it.. Never knew how much failing would be a part of my success!!
    Holly’s latest post How To Exercise…Two Important Components

  11. #11 by Bruce on October 5, 2011 - 9:34 pm

    It’s so easy to get sidetracked and NOT be chasing the cash flow — it sounds ridiculous, but it’s true!

    Here are some points I like: be coachable, expect failure, and act when you’re not 100% certain.

    You have to be humble in this business — check your ego at the door — and realize that everyone needs a little help, a little guidance, even if it just comes from a list of reminders that you have posted above your desk.

    I enjoy your concise writing style, so I’ll be back.

    Regards.
    Bruce’s latest post Biofeedback Machine Review

  12. #12 by Tomek on October 5, 2011 - 8:13 am

    i believe the most important thing is to think big and always keep your goal top of mind, so that it drives all your actions. But all these tips are great, really practical and to the point. Thanks!
    Tomek’s latest post Protein Supplements

  13. #13 by Carla McNeil, Social Media Manager on October 4, 2011 - 2:53 pm

    When I first started building my own business I really had no idea of all the things I would have to do or learn.

    It has been an amazing journey but I still have to remind myself that I am in this to make money not just to give everything away! I’m learning.

  14. #14 by Theuns on October 4, 2011 - 1:29 pm

    Hi Peter

    I think you know by now what I am doing, even that I love MLM to bit;s and still belong to my MLM I am working on my Opus The “Gratitude” Game.

    And that will be mine for ever and ever .

    If a MLM company fail then you need to start over and as we know by now it does happen with the best.

    When I have Success in my Game I can help the hole wide world with it and that is my passion to do that like KFC and Mac Donald’s but that is not the easy way it is hard work that pays at the end and the most important think is you mind set because you need to keep on keeping on till the end before you see the money coming in and not every one can keep on keeping on.

    Always nice to read you Post’s .

    Regards
    Theuns
    Theuns’s latest post How to apply visualization: Visualization — the brother of thePower of Intention

  15. #15 by Jade on October 4, 2011 - 4:44 am

    Thank you so much for this informative information Peter.

  16. #16 by Kyle Quinlan on October 4, 2011 - 1:39 am

    Hey Peter,
    Very useful information in this article. You state so many points that are CRUCIAL to increase your cashflow. This isn’t one of those articles that you want to skim through… It’s one where you want to ponder each point and see where you can improve in that area. Nicely done!
    Kyle Quinlan’s latest post Reach For The Stars… And Another Productivity Tip

  17. #17 by Andy Nathan on October 2, 2011 - 1:40 pm

    Peter,

    Love the different parts of the mindset you need to succeed. Thank you very much!

    Andy
    Andy Nathan’s latest post Gravatars: The Funny Little People You Must Have Comment

  18. #18 by Etieno Etuk on September 30, 2011 - 3:23 pm

    Wonderful post, Peter. I agree with you. To be successful, we have to focus more on cash producing activities. We also need to have a sound plan and mentorship to help us determine how we’re going to get from where we are right now to where we want to go.

    Thanks for sharing. Have a better than terrific day!
    Etieno Etuk’s latest post Do Not Despise The Bottom Rungs In Your Ascent To Greatness

  19. #19 by pete chapman on September 29, 2011 - 9:36 am

    Hi Peter
    excellent stuff, Peter…
    Your analysis and recommendations to creating the right mindset are invaluable to the online/offline marketer.
    Our mind can play tricks with us if we do not control what goes in, what is adopted and owned as it effects our actions to follow.

    I am sure you will get many followers in your business as you are recognised as a leader.

    Best wishes

    Pete
    pete chapman’s latest post What Doctors Are Saying About Kangen Water

  20. #20 by Joanne Massey-Dean on September 29, 2011 - 5:28 am

    Hi Peter, Thanks for this. This is exactly what our team teaches, great to hear from another source as well. Validation!
    Joanne Massey-Dean’s latest post Have you ever wondered why….

  21. #21 by Bryan McHeyzer on September 26, 2011 - 10:33 pm

    Hi Peter,
    Excellent points here.
    I feel that because you are working from home people do not always treat it like a business.
    It is so important that your friends and family realise that you are working and not just call on you during the day expecting to socialise with you.

    Thanks for sharing Peter.
    Cheers
    Bryan
    Bryan McHeyzer’s latest post PLR-Articles-For-MoreTraffic

  22. #22 by Ilka Flood on September 23, 2011 - 3:01 pm

    Hi Peter,

    Awesome, awesome advice! And what a powerful way to close it out with ….“It is not enough to just read the above, you have to read it, believe it and live it.” That’s were most people fail, believing that they can actually achieve it.

    Thank you so much for your insights!

    Ilka
    Ilka Flood’s latest post Thanks, For Not Dying Mom! – Part 2

    • #23 by Peter Fuller on September 24, 2011 - 10:22 am

      Hello Ilka, longtime no see :) I always appreciate your insights as well.

  23. #24 by Melodie Kantner on September 21, 2011 - 3:14 pm

    Mindset is something we all need to be working on continually. If we don’t keep feeding our mind with things that strengthen us, we can get pulled down by the negativity of the people around us and things we hear about in the news. Focusing on things that build belief and courage are important because we will fail at things but if we want to be successful, we need to take those failures and learn from them. Then make adjustments.

    I like the way you talk about the layers. When I teach EFT to people I often talk about the many layers to our issues. For EFT to be really effective, we need to work on the different layers.
    Melodie Kantner’s latest post How Attraction Marketing Helps You Love What You Do

    • #25 by Peter Fuller on September 24, 2011 - 10:17 am

      Thanks for the comment Melodie. I always think in layers, start at the bottom and work up :)

  24. #26 by Kimberly Castleberry on September 21, 2011 - 12:46 pm

    Hey Peter, this is a great list. The one I would add to this though that I see many people currently not quite getting into “belief” is the willingness to charge what their time is worth when its time to make a sale and the willingness to not flinch when asking for what they’re worth. Many marketeres today aren’t struggling because they don’t believe they gotta work, but they’re not offering stuff so people CAN give them money! Great list here as usual and indeed we have to LIVE IT!
    Kim
    Kimberly Castleberry’s latest post CommentLuv Premium Goes On Sale Next Week!

    • #27 by Peter Fuller on September 24, 2011 - 10:15 am

      Hey Kim. Knowing one’s value is a great addition to the list, and it is definitely part of your mindset. I always tell people to stick to their value based price or they will lend up working for pennies.

  25. #28 by Flexispy Reviews on September 21, 2011 - 10:02 am

    Hi Peter!

    You really have a good point on how to set your mind in cash flow. Nice explanation and very easy to understand.
    Flexispy Reviews’s latest post Flexispy Reviews – Does It Really Work?

  26. #30 by Charles Holmes on September 20, 2011 - 7:02 pm

    Peter,

    Great point here.

    I really like the idea of the cash flow mindset. I learned a long time ago that entrepreneurs think differently than most employees.

    To succeed, you need to think like a champion. Never accept defeat. Never quit. It really is that simple. You might end up taking an alternate route along the way, but you will still reach your destination.

    Nice blog. This was my first time here.

    Chuck
    Charles Holmes’s latest post Sep 20, Share this Site with Other Network Marketers

    • #31 by Peter Fuller on September 24, 2011 - 10:08 am

      I hope to see you again Charles, and thanks for the comment

  27. #32 by Jupiter Jim on September 20, 2011 - 4:40 pm

    Peter,
    Once again, simple, concise and powerful. You said: “It is not enough to just read the above, you have to read it, believe it and live it.”
    Oh, that is so true. The three posts that you refer to should be read and re-read. It’s hard to master it all, but we need to master most of it if we expect to be successful in our own home-based business whether it’s network marketing (which I do) or providing a service which I do (building WordPress blogs for small and home-based businesses).
    I love the way you did a nice little re-cap of the other three posts right here in this post.
    Make sure you are engaging in the Money-Making Activities of your business is such KEY advice!
    Thanks Again!
    – Jupiter JIm
    Jupiter Jim’s latest post WordPress Tutorial: Add your Blog URL or Web Address to Google Webmaster Tools for Better SEO

  28. #34 by Joanne Massey-Dean on September 20, 2011 - 5:00 am

    Peter, great information. I am a firm believer that if your “why” is not large enough, if it does not bring tears to your eyes, you need a bigger why. I just enlarged my why, an what a difference it is making!

  29. #36 by Joyce Edwards on September 19, 2011 - 9:33 pm

    Hey Peter,
    This is a wonderful series that you are writing about. Sometimes I get lost in the amount of things that I have to do and your posts are giving me more of a roadmap. I like your cash flow mindset ideas. Especially don’t let criticism sidetrack you and treat your business like a business. I try to work on those everyday.
    Joyce Edwards’s latest post Where is the morality in healthcare

    • #37 by Peter Fuller on September 24, 2011 - 10:04 am

      Keep working on them and before you know your business will be a business.

  30. #38 by Rachel Lavern on September 19, 2011 - 2:47 pm

    Wonderful advice Peter.

    I recently met with my accountant and I am proud to say my business has continued to be successful and show promising profits. If I am not doing regular check-ups on my finances, I run the risk of treating my business like a hobby.

    On the other hand, I am constantly having a challenge with sticking to my business hours, even though I know that the pay back for not doing so is burn out. Been there–done that.
    Rachel Lavern’s latest post Top 5 Reasons Affirmations Fail

    • #39 by Peter Fuller on September 24, 2011 - 10:03 am

      Thanks for the comment Rachel. Just having an accountant to review your results with makes you far ahead of many others working from home. Good for you.

  31. #40 by Jayne Kopp on September 19, 2011 - 12:42 pm

    Peter, those are excellent straight to the point, no fluff pointers.

    As you say, it’s not enough to read the list, you must absorb the points and believe with your heart.

    Then as you say, treat it like a business. Even though we work from home, it is still our ‘workplace’ during those necessary hours.

    see you soon

    Jayne
    Jayne Kopp’s latest post Is Your Online Business Failing? Or, Could it be That You’re Just Not…

  32. #42 by Richard Goutal on September 19, 2011 - 11:12 am

    I jumped the gun on my overall business plan and decided to stage a “live event” in Connecticut at the end of October (Come on over Peter!). I certainly did/do not have 100% certainty the event would/will work at this time. It is a bit uncomfortable because I may not get the attendees needed to satisfy the collaborative goals of the conference. I am both excited for what can be accomplished, but yes… I have to say, I am a bit nervous about the outcome. Maybe not “afraid to fail” but LOL certainly “uncomfortable” to use your words! I can only say, it’s exciting because it’s different from what others are doing, it is a great opportunity for me to learn what works for the future, and for those that do participate, it will have solid benefits. So… I’m hanging on tight for the ride!

    • #43 by Peter Fuller on September 24, 2011 - 10:01 am

      Good for you Richard, make sure you tape it. I remember reading a story about a famous MLMer who now is at the top of the world money makers. I flew into a city to give a presentation and the only one that showed up was the organizer. Did he walk away? No. He gave the presentation anyways.

  33. #44 by Janet @ The Natural Networker on September 18, 2011 - 8:01 pm

    Peter, aloha. Take action. That says it all. No action = no results.

    Well said, Peter.

    Best wishes for a terrific week ahead–taking action. Until next time, aloha. Janet
    Janet @ The Natural Networker’s latest post Do You Ask for Help?

  34. #46 by Marcus Baker on September 18, 2011 - 1:48 am

    Hey Peter,

    Awesome advice here and I like most how you point out that it’s not enough just to read this, you have to make it happen and that has to do with putting our will to work. It’s as simple as saying “I can, I will and I am” no excuses!

    ~Marcus
    Marcus Baker’s latest post Sign of Confirmation or Co-incidence?

    • #47 by Peter Fuller on September 24, 2011 - 9:54 am

      Hey Marcus, thanks for your comment, and I agree 100%, no excuses

  35. #48 by Jon @ Give Jon a Dollar on September 18, 2011 - 12:47 am

    I’ve been in and out of brick and mortar business for the last 10 years. Peter gives excellent advice here. Nice piece.
    Jon @ Give Jon a Dollar’s latest post 10 Tips for Overly Chatty People

  36. #50 by Steve-Personal Success Factors on September 16, 2011 - 5:27 pm

    Peter, thanks for a dynamite post. I love your background and your mindset. I’m not quite a Boomer, just under, but I can certainly relate to taking an active stance versus the head in the sand approach to retirement.

    I’m currently reading through the Personal MBA, by Josh Kaufman. Here’s a great quote I think you and your readers will like:

    “Every successful business (1) creates or provides something of value that (2) other people want or need (3) at a price they’re willing to pay, in a way that (4) satisfies the purchaser’s needs and expectations and (5) provides the business sufficient revenue to make it worthwhile for the owners to continue operation.”

    Five concepts for all of us to hold in our minds: value creation, customer demand, transactions, value delivery, and profit sufficiency. These concepts are universal elements that make up any business.
    Steve-Personal Success Factors’s latest post Discover the Secret of Future Proofing Your Career

    • #51 by Peter Fuller on September 24, 2011 - 9:52 am

      Thanks for the quote Steve. For some reason many businesses forget about #5 :)

  37. #52 by Amy Hagerup on September 15, 2011 - 9:09 pm

    I loved how you reviewed the other posts main points. Since this is my first visit here, I found that very helpful. Also, I loved the list for cash flow mindset. Super. I’ll be back. blessings, Amy
    Amy Hagerup’s latest post Health is Wealth: Why Build a Shaklee Business

    • #53 by Peter Fuller on September 16, 2011 - 9:51 am

      Thanks for dropping by Amy, and I am glad you loved the list :)

  38. #54 by Kristina L. on September 15, 2011 - 6:55 pm

    Hi there, Peter!
    Straight to the point-you always seem to have good, yet simple advices. We should think big and not treat our business as if it is our hobby. However, I think there is one better thing-when your hobby becomes business.!Because if you can make earnings from your passion and something you like to do, you are fulfilled both mentally and financially. The flow is then not just about cash, but about satisfaction, as well.
    Kristina L.’s latest post Easy Jet Holidays Coupon Code

    • #55 by Peter Fuller on September 16, 2011 - 9:55 am

      You are absolutely right Kristina, making money doing what you love is extremely satisfying.

      Here is a new blog series on that exact subject by Roshanda Gilmore

  39. #56 by David Paul on September 15, 2011 - 1:34 pm

    This just great stuff, Peter.

    When I did just one of these suggestions, to Get Serious and started treating my business like a business, my results changed drastically. For me it was all about Being All In with no other alternative but to succeed.

    Around 9 months ago I got committed (All In) to growing Me to Become More as a network marketing leader, and since that day that I made my decision to be All In, my offline business has tripled in revenue and my only business has gone from non-existent to 3 business partners and 100s of prospects.

    These methods do work, but it requires 100% focus, coachablility, and knowing Who to Listen to.. among other thing (the Power of the Mastermind).

    Peace,

    David H. Paul
    the Follow Your Bliss guy
    David Paul’s latest post How to Fan the Flames of Desire

  40. #58 by Rick Lelchuk on September 15, 2011 - 10:45 am

    Peter,
    Thanks for the refocusing. I get caught up in the non-productive part of the business and lose sight that we are in business to make money. Your points are easily understood and I appreciate the attention you’ve given to the “F” word – failure. It takes so many out of the game.
    Looking forward to more from you.
    RICK
    Rick Lelchuk’s latest post Life’s Funny Twists

  41. #60 by Justin on September 13, 2011 - 3:42 pm

    Do not become attached to any particular outcome is a great piece of advice. I sometimes get discouraged when I don’t realize a certain outcome even though I may have done everything right. Sometimes, things just happen, and as entrepreneurs we have to learn to learn from the situation and keep moving forward. Thanks for these motivating words Peter!
    Justin’s latest post President Obama’s Jobs Plan Aims to Put More Teachers Back to Work

  42. #62 by Justin Allen Hammonds on September 13, 2011 - 12:49 pm

    Awesome Mr. Fuller! What an amazing potent way to put your MBA into action Sir. God is good to you. I go agree that your business must be in business. As you said not a “thing” I do, but rather in business.

    Thank you for another awesome post!
    Justin Allen Hammonds’s latest post How Can You Make Sure Your Marketing Message Is Perfect?

    • #63 by Peter Fuller on September 13, 2011 - 2:27 pm

      Thanks for the comment Justin. Sometimes you just have to put that MBA into action :)

  43. #64 by marquita herald on September 13, 2011 - 12:28 pm

    You are truly a wise man Peter. Seriously good advice and right to the point. Thanks for the inspiration!
    marquita herald’s latest post Book Review: The Lean Startup

  44. #66 by Andrew Walker on September 13, 2011 - 4:18 am

    Hi Peter. Thanks for sharing this. It’s an awesome infomation!!
    Andrew Walker’s latest post Who Loves Coffee has to try the Cuban One

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