We will often need support, cheering, and hype to keep moving forward as entrepreneurs. However, we also need facts, the (sometimes painful) truth, and the ability to handle criticism from someone in the game.

I’ve been thinking about the She Built This Gala. Particularly, the panel discussion. During the discussion, I felt grateful for the perspective I heard as a woman in business. However, the most significant relief was hearing women entrepreneurs out loud tell me what my rooftop banner should say.

I observed 100 successful business owners shaking their heads at statements like:

• It's okay to like money and things. You do you. This is a safe space here with like-minded women.

• It's okay to want to make more money. Despite society's progress, our brains still operate at a prehistoric level. Your brain may still be looking for permission. That's okay. I'm here to support you as you take that next brave step.

• You will not make a million dollars in 10 days. But after being in business for years, is it possible that you might? YES!

• You can be a successful female entrepreneur. However, it’s likely to take years of work.

This is how business really is. This is why it's essential that you are doing something you are genuinely passionate about. Because the reality of entrepreneurship and what others think entrepreneurship is are vastly different.

• You will work 24/7 at times. You will learn where and when you can catch your breath with practice.

• You work with clients that you don't LOVE. You have bills to pay.

• You need an idea that is a solution to a problem. You can't make the market want what you are offering.

• You won't be able to hide. People buy from people.

• You will learn how to adapt. Trying new products or services until you fine tune your ideal client and what they want from you.

• You have to do things outside of your comfort zone. Doing things that are challenging. Doing things that you don't LOVE to do. And sometimes when you just don't want to do them.

You have to do the work.

Cheerleaders cannot be the only voices in the room. We need more women in business modeling this behavior, speaking their truth, and sharing their stories. They can still do that by being your number one fan.