In today’s newsletter, we’re diving into something a bit different… Axe Throwing! If that doesn’t send a little shiver down your spine, then hats off to you, you’ve already conquered one of the scariest things out there: running your own business.
But don’t worry, there’s no real danger here, except maybe to my dignity as I recount my own (less-than-stellar) attempt at hitting the bullseye.
Keep reading for the story of how my husband and I went from total axe-throwing rookies to hitting the bullseye… eventually. That’s how I learned that this is no different from running your own business.
I’ve always been someone who enjoys a fun little competition. Last year, I stumbled upon something new: Axe Throwing.
Naturally, my curious personality kicked in. I wanted to know all about it and how to get involved. But really, it wasn’t just the competition that intrigued me, it was the thrill of the tools they were using. I mean, how can something so dangerous look so fun?
The instructor asked if my husband and I had ever thrown axes before. I responded, “Well, I haven’t encountered a bat that flew out of my ceiling, so that would be a no.”
He then gave us a lesson on the art of axe throwing, which, as it turns out, is more about steady focus and precision than brute strength.
But let’s just say… I had zero axe appeal. Had I been facing a bat, I would’ve been eaten for dinner and no one would’ve ever known!
My first attempt? The axe completely missed the target, bounced off the wall, and came straight back at me. Umm, can I get some safety toe shoes, please? The axe was out for revenge. Did I mention they made me sign a waiver? I wonder why?
But after multiple practice rounds and guidance from the instructor, my husband and I finally started to get the hang of it.
Slowly but surely, our skills began to sharpen (pun intended).
We grew more confident, and before I knew it, I even hit the Bullseye!
Just when we thought we’d mastered it, the instructor upped the ante. He brought out knives of all shapes and sizes, sharp triangular and star-shaped objects you only see in action movies aimed straight for the neck. So yeah, now I needed not just safety shoes but gloves, a shield, and maybe a helmet!
Would I try Axe Throwing again? Absolutely! In fact, I did go back, this time, armed with safety glasses.
As fun (and mildly terrifying) as it was, this experience reminded me a lot of running a business. Here are a couple parallels that I noticed:
The Business Lessons
- Taking Calculated Risks
Just like Axe Throwing, running a business involves taking calculated risks. Sometimes, you’ll miss the target, but with practice and focus, your chances of hitting the Bullseye improve. In business, we often take risks knowing there’s a possibility of failure. When that happens, we refocus, and adjust. That’s how we achieve those Bullseye moments! - Focusing Under Pressure
The stakes were raised when those sharp star-shaped objects came into play, but I kept going over the instructor’s advice in my head: stay calm and focus on the target. In business, when faced with tense situations, whether it’s dealing with an unsatisfied client or a lost deal, it’s important to remain in control and stay focused on the bigger picture. Don’t let the pressure get the best of you.
Here’s the Bottom Line:
As much as Axe Throwing tested my skills, it also reminded me of the perseverance and focus needed to run a successful business. The key is to keep aiming for that Bullseye, because with enough practice, dedication, and a little bit of fun along the way, you’ll eventually hit the mark.
And hey, if things don’t go as planned, just throw on some safety glasses and try again.
Chuckle of the day! 😂
“I asked the axe instructor if I was improving. He said I was on the edge!”
Shamayne Brown is a virtual assistant and the founder of Camp Virtual Assistance.
She works with solo professionals and small business owners who are ready to invest in their business and need the support that she offers.
She specializes in creating email newsletters as well as other admin and creative design tasks.
Click here to connect on LinkedIn.
Click here to set up a discovery call.
