Embarking on an adventure into the realms of self employment can be an exciting yet daunting experience. If you are creating this dream alone then this trip could be the most memorable of your life, be sure that it is memorable for all of the right reasons. Remember a solo career is not all glitz and glamour, it takes hard work, tenacity and a desire to face challenges head on.
For many women, starting a business is not just about financial independence but also about pursuing a passion, making an impact and re defining what success looks like on their own terms. If you are a first time soloprenaur, this blog is just for you. Lets explore how you can embrace the soloprenaur journey with confidence and clarity.
How Soloprenaurship is Empowering For Women
Soloprenaurship allows you to be your own boss, dictate your own schedule and align your business with your values and personal beliefs. It has the ability to offer women a unique sense of freedom. However, it would be sensible to note that you have now got multiple bosses because every client you accumulate have the attitude that you work for them alone, and don't seem to realise that you have other clients who also demand a share of your time.
Soloprenaurship for women can offer :-
Flexibility to balance priorities- Soloprenaurship gives us the opportunity to plan family life around our work, it enables us to have more control over the time we spend on the more important elements of life such as family and relationships. We can re design our daily routines in a way that allows us more opportunities to live our lives in a way that aligns with our values and how we want to live our lives.
Breaking stereotypes - Soloprenaurship gives us the opportunity to change the expectations of what our day should look like. We are no longer expected to give our time in a way to serve others. We now have the ability to challenge traditional norms and carve out a path that suits ourselves.
Owning your success - Working for yourself , focusing on your passion, gives you the power to acknowledge every milestone and achievement is a direct result of your hard work and vision.
Overcoming common challenges- The soloprenaur journey may be one of the most fulfilling experiences of your life, however it does not come without its challenges. You may face many obstacles and challenges along the way. Here are some of the challenges you may need to conquer on your journey.
Self Doubt
Imposter syndrome can creep in when you've been venturing into unchartered territory. Remember self doubt is simply a reminder that we can not see in ourselves what is obvious to the outside world. You don't need to have all of the answers. Confidence grows with action. Start small celebrate your victories and remind yourself often of where you started.
Loneliness
Working alone can feel isolating, especially if you have been accustomed to working as part of a large team. Being a soloprenaur does not mean that you have to do it all alone. Connection with other business owners and groups with like minded individuals are great connections to make. Join womens entreprenaur groups, attend networking events and connect with other soloprenaurs on line. Surrounding yourself with likeminded individuals can be a game changer.
Time Management
As a business owner you wear many different caps and fulfill many different roles. Juggling the many responsibilities can feel overwhelming. It may be helpful to use tools like project management software and time blocking techniques to prioritise tasks that align with your goals. If you would like further information on any of these resources please feel free to reach out, I would be happy to explain further how to use them to benefit your productivity. Remember its ok to out source or delegate tasks when necessary.
Financial Uncertainty
Start with a solid budget and financial plan. Not all businesses need a huge start up fund, however, it is best practice to begin how you mean to go on. Handling finances well when you have a smaller client base will make things run more smoothly as your client base increases. Track your income and expenses closely, don't be afraid to invest in yourself through courses, tools or mentorship that can help your business grow. You don't have to be a financial wizard but it is good practice to learn the basics of accounting and credit control if only for your own knowledge.
Tips for thriving as a soloprenaur.
Why? - Define your why. Why did you decide to start your business? This may seem like the boring question, however if you are not clear on your reason for being in business you do not have a strong enough foundation or reason to battle through when times get tough and trust me you will face some tough days no matter how incredible your business is. Your purpose is your anchor. Whether its for financial independence, creative freedom, making a difference to your world or for family security your why will keep you motivated through this.
Build your brand
A strong personal brand is essential for a soloprenaur. Invest some time in creating your own compelling story. Design a professional website and build a community on social media that resonates with potential clients and like minded people who love what you do. use these marketing tools to showcase your business and what you have to offer.
Embrace life long learning.
Entreprenaurship is a continuous learning process. Every day is a school day. If you are not learning you are not growing. Take courses, listen to podcasts, read books, take notes, journal, listen, and document conversations. Stay up to date on industry trends. The more you learn, the more you grow, the more you grow the more your business will thrive.
Celebrate Small Victories
Every step forward is progress. The only way you fail is by doing nothing. All experience is a lesson in disguise. Look for the lessons in every situation. Small victories to celebrate could include, landing your first client, your first sale, publishing your website, writing your first blog, reaching 100 followers on social media, hitting a financial milestone. The little things matter, every goal that you achieve no matter how small will be a stepping stone to your success and will fuel your momentum.
The soloprenaur journey is as much about personal growth as it is about building a business, by embracing the ups and downs, staying true to your vision and seeking support when needed, you can create a fulfilling and successful path forward. Remember every expert was once a beginner, you've got this.
Are you ready to take the leap? Share your story or question in the comments below - i'd love to cheer you on.
Passion + Consistency = Success - Lilla Liptok
I’m also a self-employed entrepreneur, and I admit that, as good as it sounds to be your own boss, there are also challenges that you don’t deal with when you’re employed. However, if I were to decide again, I would choose the self-employed path once more. I don’t like it when someone assigns me tasks and hovers over me… what you wrote is great, an excellent foundation for anyone who decides to take this path… maybe a few more tips or advice… thank you!😊