This girlaboutOtown is beginning to adjust to life as a full-time entrepreneur, and is pleased to report that things so far are going well. I’m always busy, and it is sometimes a bit overwhelming, but the freedom I feel is really quite motivating.
When the going gets tough though, I make it a point to stop and reflect on my favourite 5 P’s:
1. Passion: I’m so lucky to be doing what I love, and I’m excited about the unique approach to home buying the fella and I have developed. Helping people decode their daily living patterns, figure out their space requirements and find that feeling of home is truly a privilege. Plus, being my own boss and starting a business from scratch is pretty cool too!
2. Patience: I read somewhere that overnight success can sometimes take years to achieve. Since it’s only been a month since I left my cubicle behind, I’m trying hard to remember this important premise and to pace myself accordingly.
3. Perseverance: Without the luxury of limitless time or resources, entrepreneurship takes dedicated effort. It’s tough slogging doing a lot stuff that I haven’t done before, but doing nothing is just not an option! Ian Graham over of the Code Factory has been writing a series of posts about the ups and downs faced by entrepreneurs, particularly in the first two years, and this girlaboutOtown has been paying very close attention.
4. Positivity: Staying positive in the face of fear, possible failure and the embarrassment of being a beginner isn’t always easy, but I really try to remain focused on what is going well. This is particularly true when working with the fella, who is my partner in life and in business. Our mantra has become “have fun and stay together”, which has a wonderful way of putting everything in perspective when necessary.
5. Promotion: This is the hardest part for me, I confess. I understand that smart marketing can be done on a shoestring, and that getting the word out about the services I offer is an important first step. These are things I know how to do, but selling myself on the other hand sometimes feels kind of shameless. Thankfully, I recently read this rockin’ post by Danielle Laporte of White Hot Truth. According to this bold and beautiful writer, speaker and fire-starting business coach, the secret to self promotion is simple: just radiance and the facts, Jack!
Nice list. The 5 P’s of entrerpeneurship. Thank you for the mention
“have fun & stay together” such a good mantra for so many things.
I am sure you are going to be great once you get there. I grew up in a family that ran a business and it is hard. Promotion is hard, and working together is very hard.
We are just finalizing the purchase the our new home but I may have some “design coaching” questions for you after we prioritize the non-design to do list!
Congrats on your buy! Exciting times…
Amazing White Hot Truth link – thanks for sharing!
I have just spent an age over on the fella’s site. The concept you guys have put together is awesome. Good luck on your exciting new venture!
Thank you! We think so too, and we’re working hard to get the word out. Your encouragment is much appreciated!