How To Start a Business

I have had countless people ask me recently… how do you start a business? But more importantly, people sharing with me their desire to make a hobby or interest into something bigger! Listen to me – this is your sign! Just take it and run with it… and I’ll tell you why right here and right now!

Multiple sources of Income

I’m not sure if you are going all in or if this will be a side hustle – maybe supplemental right now, but later who knows? Sounds great to me. The key here is that it is always beneficial to have multiple sources of income. Take it from me. I am a nurse, who was forced to stay home (unpaid) during a pandemic. Just let that sink in for a minute. Was it a rough time? Sure. But I knew I had my business to fall back on. This is only going to help you financially and broaden your skills, so why not?

Fuel your Inner Fire

Of course I love being a nurse, it’s my jam. I worked hard to get where I am today, and I am very proud of that. But guess what? It’s only part of who I am. Photography sparks a unique, creative joy in me that nursing cannot – and that’s okay! My point is, do you have something you just love doing? Thinking about it gets you all excited inside? Maybe you can immerse yourself in it for hours and lose track of time? Or maybe it’s just a skill that comes second nature to you? Think of what that is and get ready to hit the ground running.

Put the Pen to Paper

I know, I know… the hardest part is where the heck do I start? Just take it easy Linda (listen, listen Linda LOL) Believe me, I must have every single thing perfectly ready for me to start anything. But if I can do it – you can too! What do you absolutely have to have in order for your business to “begin?” For me, I felt that a website was a good starting point. However, since I am a perfectionist, I had to settle for a FB Page to start with. I then slowly started creating a portfolio and website. I do recommend Squarespace – very easy to use and tons of beautiful templates.

Do you have an existing customer base? Do you have a platform you can easily use to market yourself? Maybe you need to first get a specific license or permit? I don’t know… I’m just pulling for straws here. All I am saying is let’s get the ball rolling. The first move should come pretty obvious to you… but please, try your best to not overthink every tiny move. It’s okay, you can change things later! For now, we just need to find the starting point and get after it.

Educate Yourself

Big things are happening right about now… you have announced you are officially in business! Can you hear those crickets? I can. Just kidding… but it will be slow to start, and that’s okay! It’s actually awesome, because it gives you time and space to practice and perfect your skill. Maybe you are doing free sessions to build your portfolio? Or maybe you are practicing your nail designs on your friends to post on the Insta? Right now is the time to submerge yourself in your business. At this point I was watching Youtube tutorials on editing, researching pricing in my area, and attending photography retreats. I took my camera out everyday and practiced taking pictures of my dog and changing various settings. I want you to go from novice to expert level in your industry. This isn’t going to happen overnight, but start incorporating these habits in your everyday life.

Stop the Limiting Self Talk Right Now

I know what you’re saying… It’s a nice idea, but when will I find the time? I’m a mom, I can’t just pick something up now and run with it. Yes you can! That’s literally the best part. It is YOUR business! Guess who just became a CEO? You did! You get to call the shots, you get to make the schedule, and you get to set the raises. It is amazing and exhausting all at the same time. But as far as the excuse making/imposter syndrome stuff goes… you have to nip it in the bud now. You are starting this new adventure because you are a highly skilled and capable individual. If you are worried/anxious/afraid of what people will think or if you will fail – that is totally normal! You are only human. But guess what? The only person who can measure your success is YOU. Read that again and let’s move on.

You’re in Business

How does it feel? Do you like it? Do you hate it? Maybe it is entirely different than what you thought it would be. That’s okay too! You can change things, drop services, set new formats, etc. It is all up to you. Now it is time to network and grow relationships. Get out there and make me proud. Go to the convention. Sign up for the booth at the art festival. Meet up with people in your industry over coffee. If this isn’t your vibe, you certainly don’t have to. Doing such things simply helps you find who YOU are in this space. No market is ever saturated. In fact, I hate when people say that because we each have something different to bring to the market. The more you get your feet wet in the business, your personal vision/mission/goals will become more crystal clear.

Just do the Damn Thing

Try it out, see how it goes. You aren’t tied down to anything! Get that ball rolling and see how you like it. Is it scary and unpredictable? Absolutely. But I guarantee you, you will not regret it. You never know if you don’t try. I am here for you and I am rooting for you!