Working smart is knowing what is important and how to do it most efficiently. Lacking action leadership. Leadership in a new business is not like that of a mature organization. It demands a sense of urgency and an action style of management, quite different from the process style of established companies. As most start-ups initially lose money, stopping the outflow of cash requires definitive action such as acquiring customers, increasing sales, developing products and collecting money.
Time is critical.
The longer the losses continue, the closer you are to bankruptcy. Failing to ask for the business. If you have any fear about selling, get over it if you want your business to survive. Much of your success will depend on your sales skills. Don't fall for the myth that sales persons are born, not made.