So, as a budding entrepreneur, one of the most significant lessons that I've learned is that...

There is no such thing as competition.

That might sound a little arrogant. It might even sound a bit naive. But, I assure you dear friends, it is neither. I say this time and time again, and it is one belief that helps me to do away with the unnecessary stress of entrepreneurship.

Yes, there are other people that do what you do.

BUT...

There is no one else that can do what you do, how you do it.

I promise.

Instead of worrying about the folks who you wrongly consider competition.

Focus on bringing out what makes you different. Focus on making you shine.

That brings me to my next point...

Collaboration is the X Factor.

If we get rid of this MIS-belief that we actually have competition, then we can embrace the true value of collaboration.

Lately, I've been reflecting on my entrepreneurial journey. I would be a big, bold, liar if I say that I have gotten to this point of Lifestyle Zen on my own.

The fact is that I haven't.

The truth is that very few of us will.

There was someone who believed in us enough to ask their friends to FAN our Facebook Pages. Someone who believed in us enough to send referrals. There was someone who believed in us enough to retweet something that we said. There was someone who believed in us enough to partner on a project.

Without those people, our businesses would be stagnant.

Dont forget that, collaboration extends to the people who also do what you do...

those non-competitors.

The lesson is that there is enough stress in entrepreneurship.

There is enough stress in honing our crafts.

There is enough stress in providing an impeccable service.

There is enough stress in this world, that we don't need to manufacture it.

Choose wisely and you will be on your way to a balanced life.

Please share your thoughts on this topic. I want to hear from you!