1. Embrace the Uncertainty.
So, when I decided to take the plunge into the insane world of entrepreneurship, I didn't realise that it was going to feel like I was trying to tame a feral unicorn with a toothpick. I'll start a new business, with a fancy website, I thought. I love dogs, I love writing, and I love helping people. What could go wrong? I'll get involved in a new career that combines all those things with people who run pet businesses! And while this has put me on the path of an unpredictable journey that's made me question my sanity and common sense daily, I figure, hey, why not?
2. Bankruptcy or Bust.
I'm not at the point of giving up the day job. And if I'm really honest, that whole 'leap and net will appear' is just rubbish. Truly. What I've learned from those much wiser and more experienced than me is to a) let people know what I'm doing now and b) be smart about where I'm spending my time. I'm going to do this the right way, lay the groundwork, be authentic, and add value to the people who want to work with me and their businesses. As a teacher, I'm well-grounded in the value of service to others and copywriting is, I feel, an extension of that.
3. The "Oops" Moments.
Oh, boy, get ready for some epic facepalm-worthy mishaps on this entrepreneurial rollercoaster. Picture this: launching my shiny new website only to discover I misspelled my own company name. Yep, I'm a genius! but what came out of that massive failure was (not only the need for a second order of business cards to be placed) but also that people appreciate and support vulnerability. Honestly, I was a little bit shocked at that and so, so grateful to be able to connect on that very human level. And as much as I want to get it right (because as a copywriter, you'd hope that I get the WORDS right), I need to remember to embrace the 'oh, come ON now!' and laugh at myself.
4. Hugs, Hurdles, and Shameless Self-Promotion.
Starting a new business is like running a marathon blindfolded while juggling flaming swords—crazy, right? I've had to brace myself for hurdles, setbacks, and those days when I'd rather hide under the covers and binge-watch cute animal videos. Panda tv, anyone? Sometimes a bit of a mental break is just what you need to start a new business but that isn't going to get the hard stuff done.
And for an introvert like me, let's not forget the mind-boggling challenge of marketing yourself. It's like shouting, "Look at me, world!" without sounding like a desperate used car salesman. It's a delicate art, my friends.
5. Celebrate the Wins (Big and Small).
Amidst the chaos, challenges, and shameless self-promotion, I don't forget to celebrate my victories, no matter how tiny. Managed to order those business cards? Break out the party hats and confetti cannons! Scored my first customer? Time for a spontaneous 'woohoo'! Starting a business is a wild adventure, but it's those wins that keep the flame of humour, vulnerability, and shameless self-promotion burning bright.
If you're a fellow entrepreneur-in-the-making, it's time to buckle up and dive headfirst into this wild biz-starting journey. Please get in touch! You can reach me via email, my FB page, or even on the ol' Insta. Let's support each other and make this the best experience possible.
Because with a sprinkle of humour, a splash of vulnerability, and a whole lot of shameless self-promotion (gulp!), we're about to create something amazing.
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