Have you ever thought about what it might be like to own a small business? Maybe, you’ve got a skill that’s in demand. But, you’re not sure how to monetize it, let alone, how to turn it into a living. I did it. But I’ll be honest. I started Get Global Marketing four years ago. And, let me be the first to tell you, it hasn’t been easy. I’m thankful for where I’m at now, and the client relationships I’ve built along the way. I love the fact that I don’t have a boss and can work from anywhere with an internet connection. Yes, I have to pay for my own health insurance. Indeed, my income is based on the results I deliver. But you know what? I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.
I probably sound crazy. And, I probably am…
However, it wouldn’t be possible if I hadn’t found my WHY.
What is a WHY?
Any hard decision requires having a clear sense of purpose. When you open a business, you must tap into your energy, courage, and determination to discover why self-employment is the right decision for your life. When business gets rough, revisiting your WHY will help you push through hard times.
Before you open your business, ask yourself WHY opening a business is right for you.
Do you want opportunity for uncapped income?
Do you want to work and travel?
Do you want to be able to work from home, so your kids don’t have to go to day care?
Can you not stand working for anyone else?
Are your career opportunities limited in your town and working on your computer would provide a broader network of clientele?
Find your WHY and don’t forget it. I’ve had many WHY’s in my life. I was born into generations of entrepreneurs. It’s in my blood. When I was 12, I had a business plan to start my own magazine targeting girls my age. From there it was on to healthy food carts and bakeries. Suffice it to say, my mind is constantly buzzing with new ideas. And, I can’t get enough.
When I founded Get Global Marketing, I answered a significant WHY. The most important one to date.
When I opened my business, I had three WHY’s.
1. I wanted to be able to work and travel.
I have always loved to travel. There is so much culture, diversity, and landscape to experience in this world. Working on your computer allows the opportunity to live wherever you want. With my business model, I am not allowed complete flexibility to be gone for months. I prefer to meet with clients, rather than do all of my work over phone. However, I can be gone for weeks.
2. I wanted uncapped income.
I live in Bend, Oregon where the average home price was $450,000 last year. When SEO professionals are paid an average salary of $50,000 per year at major agencies, we are unable to afford cost of living (add in food, clothing, entertainment, childcare). Opening a business provides me with the opportunity to offer more services and reach more clientele where I can increase my income.
3. I wanted to create a unique business.
There are few people that do what I do but, I made it a point to differentiate myself through the quality of my product and my personalized service. I strive to build personal relationships with my customers so they never feel like they are just getting a bill. I want to get to know them and I want to them to get to know me. I am not afraid to be Facebook friends with my clientele!
And, you what the best part of my job is? I get to encourage other people, my clients even, to create their own reality. To put their skills to use in a capacity that allows them to be their own boss. To work on their terms. To have the freedom and independence they’ve always dreamed of.
It’s a constant work in progress but, I feel like I can continue to make this dream a reality.
So, what about you? What’s your why?
If you are struggling to find your WHY and debating whether self-employment is for you, I suggest asking yourself these 4 questions:
- What makes you come alive?
- What are your innate strengths?
- Where do you add the greatest value?
- How will you measure your life?
Do I make a ton of money? No. Can I take days off whenever I feel like it? Not really. Am I proud of how far I’ve come? You bet. Do I have goals to grow business more? Better believe it, and you should too. Is the process easy? Hell, no. But, I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished and excited about where I’m headed. I have total faith that almost anyone that’s willing to bite the bullet, put in the time, weather the storms and believe in themselves, can make a difference in their own life, and the lives of others as well.