Everyone dreams of being their own boss and running things just the way they want. I too dreamed of one day being able to do things the way I had always imagined. Well that dream has come true and I wanted to share with you the journey so far. My hope is that you gain some encouragement and momentum in your own journey as well as provide some advice to some of the experiences that may discourage you.
No matter what your dream is, I have always believed that you should go for it. There will be difficulties and there will be times of excitement but going in with eyes wide open makes the process a million times better.
Step 1: What’s your motivation?
Every journey needs a jumping off point. Many times we get caught in life’s routine and when it comes to taking a big leap of faith like starting a business, there is always something that holds us back. My motivation is my own and it may be different for you but just like me, you will reach a point when it time to take that leap. Go for it! For me, I went into this profession with clear goals of helping people look their best while providing customized skin care. There is no better feeling than having someone come to me anxious about their skin and leave feeling confident and beautiful. After gaining experience working for a larger business, I started to feel that what I loved about being an esthetician was starting to get lost with the sheer number of clients and the demand that was being put on me. I knew that this was not how I wanted to do things but my hands were tied. Eventually I came to a point where the only option was to go out on my own. And so I did. I had to go through the process of reaching the point where it was clear what I had to do. You will reach that point too. Keep your perspective clear and option open and when you see that point you will know it.
Step 2: Do your homework!
This is a very simple thing but is often overlooked or not put in the proper perspective. It’s not just about figuring out everything that you want or need to do to get started. More importantly it is about understanding it all. For me it was understanding the finances of it all. I knew what I needed to do but understanding finances was the key to it all. The first thing I needed to do was find a location. This is probably the most important step to being successful. Having the right location can be the difference between closing after a few months or constantly making bookings. This was the mindset that I went into this process. I wanted to be in an area that would attract the clients that I could truly help. I knew exactly where that was and where I knew I would be visible, drawing in a lot of clients just based on the physical exposure. There was a problem. It was way too expensive. This is where my understanding of the financial aspect was really important. I could have gone for the pricey location but it would completely handcuffed me and what I wanted to do. So the search went on. Don’t be afraid to get out there, do exhaustive searches, and look out for when things fall into your lap. I found my place by complete accident. I discovered it when I booked an appointment with a friend for eyelash extensions. Her salon was located inside Salons by JC in Norwalk. I had never heard of it before I went to see her and after my appointment it dawned on me that this might be perfect for what I needed. When I looked into I found that it was an environment that would allow me to be successful and was at a monthly rate that was affordable. It was perfect and they had space available! I just knew right when I walked in that this was the place for me. You will too. Keep looking until you know.
Step 3: “Spend money to make money”
We’ve all heard this saying but when it comes to starting a business this couldn’t be more true. I’m going to tell you right up front, it will cost your more to get started then you probably thought it would. This was my experience and I would caution you that if you figured on a budget to get started, double it. This isn’t something to discourage you though. It can be done if you go into it knowing that up front. Figure out everything you want and go for it. I wanted to create a warm relaxing environment that would be welcoming to my clients. I strive to give my clients the full experience in my services. This went down the line from products I would use to the equipment I used. This cost money. Whether you do it from savings or you get a loan from the bank, don’t be afraid to go for it. Repeat customers is crucial to my business, as is so many others, so I knew how important it was to keep them coming back. Spend what it takes to make sure they do. The tricky part is to not spend more than you can afford otherwise you’ll lose your return on the investment. It’s a bit of a juggling act but you can find the sweet spot financially!
Step 4: Don’t be afraid
It is a terrifying thing to step out on your own in whatever you. Don’t be afraid of it. I’d be lying if I told you that it was all free sailing. There will be difficulties and stressful nights where you wont know if it is going to work. Whether it is problems dealing with suppliers or products being delayed, it is all part of the process and it doesn’t mean there is something wrong. Don’t be discouraged by it. Believe in yourself and what you have to offer. When it’s all said and done if I can do it so can you!
The process can be long and difficult but it is so worth it!
