Without a doubt the last year has been a lot of work. Re-branding, new products, all new sections. Phew! I’m glad that this is just about ready to wrap up.
Last night I was thinking about all of the work that went into building this business: the creation, the planning, the execution of plans, the budgeting (eek), the stress, and the time commitment. I started my business with $300 five years ago – now I have my items in stores around the world. I’m not the kind of person who reminds myself each and everyday about successes I have, but I needed to remind myself a few times this past year that I have accomplished a lot. The point I’m getting to with this blog post is that if you want to do something – do it. It’s not impossible and you don’t need to have thousands of dollars like some may lead you to believe, it just takes faith in yourself and hard work.
For all of those who think taking the leap to start something on your own is scary I’ll let you in on a secret of mine…I was terrified. I decided I wanted to open a store – but I am by no means a saleswoman. I had to put my faith in myself that I could do this, and once I did I felt empowered!
It took some training to become my own boss – in corporate world I was always the assistant: Assistant to the Art Director, Assistant to the Photo Editor, Fashion Closet Assistant. I can’t remember ONE job I had where I wasn’t the lowest in rank. I worked hard in those jobs, but it wasn’t making me happy. That’s when I decided it was time to take all that hard work and late nights I was putting in and turn them into something that would bring more joy to my life, my family’s lives, and others’ lives.
What I’m saying here is if I can do it, you can too. Believe in yourself. If you’re stuck, want some encouragement, want to talk through the tough days (and there are tough days), or need some advice…I’m all ears. Email me at ruffledshoppe@gmail.com and I’ll talk you through what has helped me.
My plan for the end of this year is to create a community where small business owners can get together and help out and provide supports and encouragement to those looking to get started or even re-vamp what they already have – so keep an eye out…
