I’ve always been driven by tenacity and bold ambition. But it wasn’t until 2020 that I truly felt ready to take the plunge and start my own business; my clean beauty brand, Apollo & Artemis Beauty by Equality. Although I knew it was a big leap because it meant stepping out of my comfort zone and into the unknown, I felt ready. That does not mean it wasn’t scary, quite the opposite.
It is easy to let fear hold you back, even after you jumped. We launched during the Covid-19 pandemic, which added an extra difficulty and a new level of terrifying. Even so, I realized there never is such a thing as an ideal time to start your own business. You just have to trust your gut, much like where you start a personal relationship with someone. If you stop and wait for the ‘right time’ you might never actually do it.
You feel passionate about your project
You can’t get the idea out of your mind, maybe it’s even been there for years. Furthermore, you believe in it and feel passionate about it. Yet, keep in mind that passion is often overhyped, make sure you are doing it because you have tenacious belief in your idea, instead of doing it because you are unhappy with a current situation.
There is a financial plan
Keep in mind that cash flow is the heartbeat of your business, so you need to have money. It is vital that you have enough funds to keep you and your business afloat for at least the first year. Either if you are getting a loan, have investors or you are keeping your day job and doing your business as a side-hustle you’ll need to figure out a financial plan.
Not afraid to make the tough decisions
You completely understand what needs to be done and are not afraid to get your hands dirty. It is your turn to be the boss, which means you’ll need to make decisions like hiring someone, spending money, or letting someone go.
You have a strong support system behind closed doors
Whether it is a romantic partner, your family, or even a group of fellow entrepreneurs that are also venturing out on their own, make sure you have someone to lean after a hard day. Because there will be plenty of rough days, and you’ll need to feel supported.
Understand that you might fail
Of course, no one starts a business with the lingering thought that you are going to fail. But there are risks involved, like not growing as fast as you would like or struggling to make a profit. They are risks, and you have to understand them and be ok if things don’t go exactly as planned.
Are you thinking about starting your own business? What sign resonates the most with you? Connect with me on Instagram over @lauraleebotsacos and let me know your answer.
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