Hello everyone! I’m Alisha, lifestyle blogger and shop owner over at TheAlishaNicole.com. I have been an entrepreneur for a little over two years now and through trial and error, I have learned SO much about turning your hobby into a full time business. Today I wanted to share a few things you should know before taking that leap of faith.
1. The hardest part is taking that first step.
Our minds have a crazy way of trying to talk us into not doing something. We end up procrastinating and thinking of a million different excuses to why we can’t put ourselves out there. Don’t let fear stop you from doing something that you are truly passionate about. Taking the first step is the hardest part! Whether that’s writing out your vision for your business or simply buying the domain name for your website.
2. Be ready to work harder than you’ve ever worked before.
Starting a business isn’t easy! And turning your hobby into a business is even harder! Think of your new venture like a flower; it needs a ton of love, nurturing and time in order for it to grow!
3. Branding is EVERYTHING.
Branding is way more than just a pretty logo and website. Your brand is essentially who you are, what your business stands for and how you communicate with your customers.Guard it with your life. Before launching, sit down and really think about your business, your voice and your target audience. Also a good chunk of your budget should go into proper branding as far as putting together your logo and website. No, you don’t have to go and spend a lot of money on it but it should look professional.
4. Networking is EVERYTHING.
Your business is nothing if no one knows that it exists. Join local small business groups in your area, use social media to connect with other small business owners and never be afraid to ask for advice from someone who has been in your shoes before!
5. Everyone won’t understand and that’s ok.
Not everyone will get why you have decided to take this leap of faith into entrepreneurship, some may even question you and think that you’re crazy. But don’t let that get you down. Just understand that they have never been in your shoes and your passion is not for them to understand. Yes it will hurt but use that hurt as motivation to make your business succeed.
6. It won’t be cheap.
You know the saying “It takes money to make money”? Well it is most definitely the TRUTH! Starting a business can get really pricey! Try to save as much as you can while you are in the planning process and think of ways you can cut corners. (Ex: design your own business cards instead of hiring a professional)
7. It will be worth it.
After the longs nights, stress and maybe even a few tears, seeing your business up and running is seriously the best feeling EVER! Yes it will be hard but I promise you it will be all worth!
I hope these tips help!