085.THE ENTREPRENEUR IDENTITY CRISIS: OWNING YOUR CREATIVE BUSINESS WITH CONFIDENCE

Do you ever feel like you're "playing" at being a business owner, even while running a legitimate, successful creative business? In this episode, we delve into the entrepreneur identity crisis so many creatives face, that disconnect between doing the work and fully owning the title of business owner. We explore how creative entrepreneurs can bridge the gap between their craft and their CEO mindset, without compromising their values or individuality. You'll hear practical shifts around mindset, language, boundaries, systems, and environment that will help reinforce your identity as a confident, capable business owner. This episode isn't about becoming more corporate. it's about recognising that your creative approach is your biggest business asset. If you've ever struggled with imposter syndrome, undercharging, or hesitation around owning your success, this is the permission slip and strategy session you need.

 

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Introduction to the entrepreneur identity crisis many creative business owners experience
• [01:45] The story of a brand designer who still feels like she's "playing at being a business owner"
• [03:08] Exploring the gap between what we're doing (running businesses) and how we see ourselves
• [04:22] The mental image of what a "proper" entrepreneur looks like and why it doesn't fit creatives
• [06:02] The hidden costs of the creative-business identity disconnect
• [07:36] Research from IBM and McKinsey on creativity as a key factor for business success - Creativity officially a superpower in business, not a disadvantage
• [08:26] How creative thinking provides unique advantages in business problem-solving
• [12:04] The importance of intentional language in how we describe ourselves and our work
• [14:45] Creating clear boundaries around your work while maintaining creative flexibility
• [16:57] Implementing simple systems that support creativity rather than hindering it 
• [18:15] How your physical workspace impacts your business identity
• [19:34] Why your business is legitimate regardless of its size or location
• [22:11] Creating a ‘professional container’ for your creative work that enhances rather than diminishes it
• [24:55] The confidence shift that happens when you fully embrace your creative business identity 

 

Notable Quotes:

"What if instead of trying to fit our creative businesses into traditional business models, we recognised that our creative approach is exactly what gives us an edge?"

"Your creative perspective isn't something to overcome – it's your greatest business strength. When you fully embrace that truth, the identity gap begins to close, not because you've changed who you are, but because you've recognised the value of who you've always been."

 

Resources Mentioned:

• Read: The Full Journal post
• Ref: Creative Industries Federation research on creative business identities
• Ref: IBM global survey on creativity in business
• Ref: McKinsey research on creative capabilities and business performance
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: [email protected]

 

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to hear how you balance your creative and business identities. What has helped you embrace your role as a creative entrepreneur? Share your experiences with me over on Instagram – I'm genuinely interested in your journey and insights on this topic.

 

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