(This is my idea notebook. It helps me to write everything down.)
I recently made some big decisions for my business. These decisions weren't spontaneous, but I also didn't agonize over them for weeks either. It was more of a necessity, and a gut feeling that got the ball rolling.
Community/Support
I'm pretty new to the indie business world, so I turned to my awesome online maker communities for support and advice. I knew I wasn't the first to experience burn out, stress, and time management issues so I threw my concerns and ideas out into the forums. It's nice to know you aren't alone and sometimes just talking it out helps to make the path more clear. I also usually talk to my sister about most things because she has a business/marketing degree, plus she's brutally honest (which I appreciate).
If you can't find proper support in your personal life, I would definitely recommend joining an online community or two. You can join communities based around parenting, small business, crafting, photography - find one where you can connect organically with people who have similar interests & passions, people who will be facing familiar troubles and celebrating similar milestones. I am a member of Oh My Handmade and a few other communities. The wealth of knowledge, friendships, and support I've gained from these communities has been monumental for my business!
this is great! i'm often surprised (but in the best way ever) how incredibly supportive other small business owners I've never even met are online. I think I need to find myself someone (who isn't my husband) to throw around business ideas with as well. Keep doing awesome things Shawna!
ReplyDeletethis is such a great post, thank you for sharing!
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