I remember when I first decided to get in business. I actually started off volunteering for an artist who sold greeting cards. It was so much fun to think of ways to assist with sales. I was an artist's agent representing professionals who had a side interest/hobby. Some made dolls, quilts, or crocheted. Some drew or painted. I recall how much it surprised me when a technical manager would share their love for sewing for example. The two seemed at odds with each other but they actually served as a source of pride and joy to balance out the stress of the day. Oftentimes the artists didn't have the time to promote their work; bingo, there's a niche that I decided to fill. At first I had people over for mini business expos to showcase the work. This then graduated to attending art/craft shows and setting up a booth. The experience was fun through it all while I was picking up valuable information about how to do business along the way. And all of this for free. In some instances it seemed I should be paying for this "free" education in business, but I was in turn sharing my valuable time as well; after all, I too was a professional engineer.
The main reason I'm sharing this story is because I know there are those out there thinking about starting their own business and I want them to get a different view of how they may start. You don't have to have an unlimited bank account. You just need to have a tenacious willing spirit to try. Don't overthink the situation and focus on the fun of it all. Believe me, those doing it for years STILL don't know what to do. If you keep an open mind, you will get the guidance you need from those who you come in contact with. The joy is in the journey and your growth along the way, I know I've grown alot, and will grow a lot more. You may have to think of it this way; once you try, at worst you'll just know what NOT to do the next time, brush yourself off and adjust.
The main reason I'm sharing this story is because I know there are those out there thinking about starting their own business and I want them to get a different view of how they may start. You don't have to have an unlimited bank account. You just need to have a tenacious willing spirit to try. Don't overthink the situation and focus on the fun of it all. Believe me, those doing it for years STILL don't know what to do. If you keep an open mind, you will get the guidance you need from those who you come in contact with. The joy is in the journey and your growth along the way, I know I've grown alot, and will grow a lot more. You may have to think of it this way; once you try, at worst you'll just know what NOT to do the next time, brush yourself off and adjust.
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