The cannabis industry is not waiting on anyone. Are you ready to lead this moving train?
Let’s look at the ins and outs of the new playing field…
The Grey Area of the Marijuana Market
Why does it still feel like there is a stigma that you are doing something wrong?
The cannabis industry is growing rapidly. There are national brands bringing amazing products to the forefront, venture capitalists searching for worthy investments, and brazen images of weed featured on the covers of major newspapers across the US this past year.
So…why are many still hesitant to put themselves out there?
Well, it could be the fact that the DEA hasn’t stopped shamelessly raiding dispensaries despite the bill passed this year to defund their activities.
Or perhaps it is the growing number of new city ordinances that ban cannabis altogether. (see Fresno, Newport Beach and Nevada County as of late).
Prohibition is moving to an end. Yet we still face resistance from all levels in the US government who choose to ignore cannabis’ medicinal value. Yes, there are still various interests dead set on upholding Prohibition – but for how long?
Risk=Reward
The risk/reward formula is one this industry knows all too well. Many of the figureheads in this community have risked their lives to bring this movement to where it is today. Those that are successful have learned how to practice discretion in everything they do.
If you are in a state that has a lax cannabis environment it may actually feel a bit utopian. Investment into the industry grows, as the tech culture embraces the huge profit potential. Look around, people are launching highly successful and innovative businesses.
But there is an underlying truth: Cannabis remains a federally illegal, Schedule I drug.
We sit on the corner of risk and reward – so many opportunities if only we can move past the vale of timidity and fear. How do we take that last step off the diving board?
“If you don’t build your dream, someone will hire you to help build theirs.” Tony Gaskins
Bottom line – If you play it safe and wait for others to pave the way, you miss your chance to carve out a niche in the market. This industry is teaming with fierce competition, no matter what sector you aspire to work in. And it’s only going to get more competitive.
If you want to establish your leadership in the marketplace, you need to stake your claim. In this nascent industry, you must be brave enough to embark on your wild ambitions.
So how do you navigate these shady but triumphant waters?…
Cross Your T’s and Dot Your I’s
Learn your rights and learn the business. Remember, we are still operating in a grey zone and the more proactive you are about complying with regulations, the less likely you are to have any issues.
The name of the game? Always think two steps ahead.
If you are in a state that hasn’t legalized yet, you can look to one that has for guidance. For example, if you own an edibles company, you should read through Colorado’s guidelines for a thorough how-to on packaging, labeling and potency.
Be sure you are practicing common sense practices like steering clear of any marketing that would attract an adolescent or irresponsible audience. As this industry grows, so does its database for information. There is a world of resources at your fingertips, be sure to use it. The most common mistake is miseducation.
Finally…
Stay True to Your Cause
Remember the reason Cannabis is such a worthy movement – it’s changing lives.
It’s bringing relief to chronic pain, keeping devastating epileptic seizures at bay, easing the pain and nausea of chemotherapy, to name a few. Cannabis makes a healthy alternative to other substances. In my opinion the most important aspect is its ability to opens minds and hearts. A revolutionary medicine, indeed.
[bctt tweet=”…Know that you are doing something amazing and worthwhile and above all – stay fierce.” #7RaysMarketing #MedicalCannabis”]It’s important to remain centered in your purpose when navigating through this business. This is the business of helping people and that makes this a social movement. Build relationships with good people, stay humble, know that you are doing something amazing and worthwhile and above all – stay fierce.
