As 2015 starts, I thought it would be fun to share my journey in starting my business, Cattermole Consulting Inc.
Although not directly related to services I provide, I offer this post to anyone trying to start their own business. I present no opinion or advice about how to write a business plan, finances, or what legal structure your company should have. Rather it is simply some reflections as I look back over the last year. With that, I hope all of you have a healthy, happy and prosperous 2015. A special thanks to my wonderful husband and kids, who remain positive, supportive and full of smiles.
Seek feedback and advice. People want to help
This has clearly been the biggest aha for me. People care and are willing to provide help and support. I cannot even begin to THANK EVERYONE who made the time to talk to me over the past 9 months. Every person I asked provided feedback, advice, ideas, his or her opinion and support. I reached out to my closest friends, acquaintances and even strangers to find out what they think of my business idea, my services, my website and even my marketing plan. What is more, I received so much valuable advice and support for free. I sincerely hope I can reciprocate!
Make sure you are truly passionate about your endeavor
There have been, and will continue to be, ups and downs on my journey. I have never doubted my ability, my drive, passion or belief in what I am trying to do. What keeps me going is knowing the importance of global chemicals management and how this can help secure a bright future for ourselves and generations to come. If you doubt what you are doing, then it probably isn’t the right thing to do.
Patience is a virtue
If you are trying to start something new, or from scratch, you need time to think, and I mean really think. Don’t rush into anything until you have done the necessary pre-work. There are so many different things to consider when starting a business. Once you launch, it takes time for the pieces to fall into place and you need stamina, courage and patience. There are plenty of other things to do as your clientele grows, such as blogging!
Be prepared to work harder than you ever have before
It is challenging and takes a tremendous amount of effort to start a business. I cannot begin to count how many times I started the same thing again, and again, and again. I am constantly busy and struggle juggling my work and family time. But what I love is that I am always learning, creating what I believe is value, and meeting great people along the way. Even after the business officially launches, there is still much to do, such as building your clientele, marketing your product or services, bookkeeping, and working for clients. There is never a dull moment and it all takes time.
Celebrate your successes.
Launching a business takes effort, hard work and time. At the end of each day you may not have much to show for it. I am a big list writer and I would encourage everyone to write down his or her achievements along the way. It is important to celebrate successes, however small. A success or milestone could be choosing the right social media outlet, launching a website, making your first sale, or getting your first client. Celebrating is different for each of us, but however you choose to do it, make it a priority and make it part of what you do.