Starting a Business: "Why Would Anyone Want to Do That?"

Posted by: Viviana | Posted on: March 27, 2008 | Comments 53

fwm staffer Viviana shares her thoughts on starting a business:

Why would anyone want to launch a business?

For years, I was a corporate woman all the way. I considered it essential to work for a large organization because (please don’t laugh, I was young at the time) of the stability that offered. If your company wasn’t big enough to require a diversity statement and at least a few regional offices, I didn’t work for you.

As you may have guessed, life quickly got around to teaching me not to put my faith and trust in the stability of any company or job, big or small. That is a good thing, because it has made me more open to (and less afraid of) looking at different types of organizations. In fact, it’s made me look at work in general a little differently. Before, I would have never considered becoming involved with a company launch of any variety. Every hotel I managed was built long before I arrived, and any web community I moderated was buzzing and humming by the time I logged my first post.

What was I missing? Several things. There is no comparison to the fulfillment, fun, and just plain excitement you derive from your work when you are helping to build something that you know is a winner. I’m sure you’re familiar with the feeling I’m describing, because you know it deep down when something is destined for success. Being a part of it, even in a small way, sticks with you.

If you are an entrepreneur, either in practice or just as the keeper of an idea that is brewing in your mind, then I must tell you, the thing I was missing most of all in my work life was you. Those of you with this gift are not like the rest of us. You can ignite passion for an idea and take us along with you. Working with people who approach their work this way is a gift that sat under my tree for years because of my fear of the unknown. I’m glad I finally got around to opening it.

So, to all of our fwm member/entrepreneurs...tell us--when did you realize that you had "the gift" of a great idea or simply the desire to start a business?

Related tags: corporate-culture, entrepreneurship, startups

53 people have responded so far. Add your comment below.
Dorinne said:
03.27.08 8:39 p.m.
Viviana,I agree with you! Let me share with you something I am excited about. I am a vendor at a local winter market. I am on the committee that formed the market. This is our start up year, sales are sometimes wanting. I saw the need to do something so I became an event planner! I created a Beach Ball in February. We had games,food,music,contests and prizes. Our customer traffic tripled that day! I tasted success so I planned another event,it will be April 5th, it is our Spring Fling. I created a new game, a frog flinging contest,sure to be fun! We also have, name the fairy contest, there is an image on the wall that looks like a fairy. My son a graphic designer applied an artists touch to create a coloring page. I am so proud of his work! We also have a crazy hat contest, the vendors are competing for prizes, the public will be voting for their favorite hat. This is why I love what I do! The possibilities are endless! Besides I really am just a big kid and this is playtime!
Viviana said:
03.27.08 9:03 p.m.
@Dorinne...that sounds WONDERFUL! (I admit that a question mark formed in my head when I read "frog-flinging contest" details, please!). I was just thinking about you today. The Washington Post published a great article yesterday on farmers markets and local growers. www.washingtonpost.com, do a search on the word "Chipotle" and you'll find it.
Renata said:
03.27.08 9:14 p.m.
Yes. I, as well, need to know what is involved in the frog-flinging contest. I'm assuming (hoping) you're talking about rubber, here. But I think one of the really great things that's coming out of these discussions is that the word "entrepreneur", which can sound even quite ominous, really breaks down to this (in the ideal sense): someone who finds something he/she can do well, and rallies others to follow. To echo the eloquence of my friend, Viv -- this is a gift, I, too, am happy to be opening.
Dorinne said:
03.27.08 11:02 p.m.
The frog fling is a game that came about when I was creating the beach ball. I found these little frogs that are basically rubber bands. I looked at them and decided it need to be an event! So my vision was a kiddie pool with floating lily pads and the object is to get 2 out of 3 frogs on a pad, prizes will be given to those who can accomplish this! Won't be easy! I even found a pool that is an inflatable frog! The fun thing, the vendors love to play the games that I create for these events. This group is so creative I only need to give them a basic outline of the events and they are off and running! I will look up that article you mentioned, thanks for thinking of me!
Quinisha Watkins said:
04.04.08 9:22 p.m.
First of all, I didn't know that there were diff. blog subjects. I'm very new at this and I'm so glad you described what frog flinging was. I love the spark all of you have and one day I would love to see how it feels to start your own business. You go girls!!!
Dorinne said:
04.05.08 10:59 p.m.
Well ladies, the frog fling was as success! The vendors as well as the public enjoyed playing the game. Adults played so they could win a prize for their grandkids. I brought bubble wands and sidewalk chalk, the vendors had so much fun playing with these simple items that it was an awesome sight to see their creativity take off. I really cannot tell you how thrilling it is to see the process of an idea turned into reality. That comment you made Viviana about deriving pleasure from your work when you know it's a winner,that is exactly how I feel about the market and the vendors I represent. The market is one of my sources of income, I have 5 jobs, but it is my business and would love the opportunity to make this blossom into the image I see in my mind and to take the vendors with me on what I see as an incredible journey!
Viviana said:
04.06.08 11:59 a.m.
Five jobs and a Frog-Flinger!? Now THAT is a full plate. ;-) I'm so glad to hear that everything went well! Amazing how something simple can be such a great draw--a little sidewalk chalk and you've got yourself a crowd.
Dorinne said:
04.06.08 2:19 p.m.
GET RID OF THE T.V!!! I have been without one for about a year and a half. Besides after 911, I could not handle watching the news, so I stopped. Now I watch what I want, when I want, online. Yes I get tired and I burnout, that's when I get my kids together and we just hangout, or I get together with my family. I'm not making money but being with my family reinvigorates me and new ideas and adventures pop into my mind. I also don't spend what I don't have. My financial situation is never pretty, but I am blessed. Somehow the money appears just when I need it or I make adjustments in my life to accommodate the income I do have. My parents grew up during the depression, they have thought me to be resourceful. There is always more than one way to do something. If something is not working then you have not found the right way yet! I tend to look at life through rose colored glasses and glass is half empty because I have been drinking from it! Hoped this helped.
Quinisha Watkins said:
04.06.08 3:41 p.m.
Yes it did. I didn't realize the time I spent watching some t.v. or a movie in our case. I always thought a movie with the family was family time. I mean, we all enjoyed it. Coming from someone who knows something, I'm taking it and running with it. Thank you bunches.
Dorinne said:
04.06.08 10:48 p.m.
Never give up family time, replace t.v watching with creative outlets. Teach your children what matters to you, include them in some of your projects, challenge them to write something or to pursue their creativity. One of my favorite places is a parent teacher store, they are a great source for finding things to challenge young minds. I home schooled my kids while living in Miami, we made good use of all the free activities in the area including the library, parks and trails. Teaching the kids to find the beauty in creation helped them to see beyond what society throws at us as the ideal lifestyle. Find what works for your family, appreciate the differences in each child, as a family unit you become stronger and unique!
Quinisha Watkins said:
04.07.08 9:11 a.m.
My children are so young that their attention span is very short. So what I did was sit back and observe my own children, it worked! Everytime we went to a park or had a walk, and so on, they were estatic! They also love to write and color, but when I tried to write while they did, all they did was send lots of questions my way and wanted me to engage in what they were doing. I love to be involved in what their doing, of course, but I find it very hard to concentrate on what I'm writing when having my children do what I'm doing. When I start something I like to finish the project, if it's at all possible. I find your juices flow a bit better when it is fresh. Now, if go anywhere I bring my notebook and recorder. My recorder doesn't get used to often, because my children are always laughing or whatever else children do. Any tips anyone?
Deborah Holliday said:
04.07.08 11:04 a.m.
Good Morning everyone! This is my very first blog entry--ever! I feel like the visual aid for Viviana's description of an entreprenuer. I have always had the ability to bring people along when I find a passion and persue it. When my 3 children were small - I always managed to work my dreams around their schedules. I applaud Quinisha's innovation of carrying notebook and recorder to capture her inspirations while they are fresh. I wish I had a better idea for you - but until one surfaces, just keep trying the recorder (every mom can hear her own thoughts through the glorious laughter of her children's voices!) Here is a shout out to my fellow entrepreneurs and keepers of the dreams and visions -let us all fan the flame of our passions and keep going until we see the vision come to pass and live to dream another day!
Viviana said:
04.07.08 9:42 p.m.
My Dear Deborah...you're hired! :-) It's great to have my very own visual aid. Thanks for the wonderful, inspiring words to all of our fabulous women!
Dr.Bagali said:
05.03.08 6:18 a.m.
HI Viviana, Greetings India. Your thoughts exactly match my status. I joined hands with a friend of mine in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to start a Bioinformatics Company. I have Ph.D in Genetics and then had professional business experience of four years. We worked hard for three years. He was a MBA person and became CEO and managed all the business. After three years, he started ignoring me and didn't involve in strategic decisions.I quit our company & resigned to Directors position.Next day processed documentations and incorporated 2 companies-one each in Malaysia& India.We managed to get Government grant and our savings as Capital to stand in business.Within 6 months,we are launching a product in three countries after precommercial validation in five countries. I am inspired by your thoughts. My wife works for a US-based MNC in Bnagalore. She will be happy to read your thoughts too. Thank you so much. God Bless us all. Regards, Dr.Bagali
Viviana said:
05.03.08 7:52 a.m.
Thank you so much for the kind words. I wish you the best of luck with your new companies. Launching a product in three countries in such a short time is most impressive.
Ma. Luz Sarah L. Chen said:
05.05.08 6:06 p.m.
Is there opportunity to have a small business for the Deaf?
Viviana said:
05.05.08 8:10 p.m.
Hello, Ms. Chen--Are you looking to start a business, or work in an existing business? I've looked at some resources and asked a friend who is a vocational rehab counselor, and this site is apparently a great resource. The National Deaf Business Institute's (NDBI) commitment is to advance entrepreneurship by the deaf through education, research and outreach. I hope that it is helpful! Please let us know your thoughts. http://www.ndbi.org/
Lisa said:
05.05.08 9:24 p.m.
I have always wanted to own my own company. However, I decided to go back to college to at least take business classes to prepare for the future. The first class the teacher ask us to explain a little about ourselves and why we wanted a degree. I stated because I do not like punching a clock or working for other people, I want to do my own thing. I would say that at the start of every new class and during break one night, a fellow classmate stated she really like my approach to things and ask if I would like to start an accounting temp agency. We have 14 clients and counting, Its not always the money but the service you can offer that someone else is offering but they want your company. I am exicted everyday and we are not in profit stage yet but just to see the growth is awesome. We give great presentations, so much so that one business owner came up to us and said if her husband was not the accountant she would hire us. Not only do we have fun, the networking is awesome.
Viviana said:
05.05.08 9:42 p.m.
@Lisa--that's a great story! We've written a lot on this blog about what it is about a person's personality and character (and I certainly hope to hear your take on that--check out some of the other posts) but I don't think we've yet written a "How did you get started?" post. Coming soon... :-)
Rana said:
05.10.08 3:11 a.m.
It is great to read about so many woman out there that has a dream and knows how to make it a reality. My self I am not mutch of a bussiness woman, but would love to be someday.Thank you for the inspiring words, and you go girls, keep up the good work!!!
Renee said:
05.10.08 10:18 a.m.
Hi Viv Since 1994, I have been dreaming about owning a business but my son came along and I stopped the dream. At the time I did not know what kind of business I was going to do but I knew it would be something I would enjoy working hard at. I have just quit my corporate job because the yearning to start a business has become a burning desire and I intend to make this dream a reality. The inspiration I have gotten from reading these articles are spurring me on to be creative and to enjoy starting on my own. Thank you.
ANNA said:
05.14.08 11:18 a.m.
I MUST SAY I WAS INSPIRED FROM ALL THAT I HAVE READ. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORKS.
Shirley said:
05.14.08 9:31 p.m.
I started my new business very recently; after resigning my job and taking a local university course, I created and launched my business (very unrelated to the course). I have received MUCH positive feedback from very educated people (physicians, nurses, teachers, etc.) so I am sure that it will be successful at some point. My vision was to not only help people avoid much heartache, hassle, and expense, but to be profitable. I plug away at the marketing of my idea. I worked in a very corporate/biotech/healthcare environment and could not figure out why I was just never satisfied with my jobs (though didn't dislike it even loved some of it)-- it's because I am an entrepreneur at heart but didn't know it! To the deaf blogger: I use to work with a deaf person and she became a chef delivering foods to the disabled/elderly. And as a business owner, I would definitely hire a deaf or disabled person if they could do the work!
Ruby said:
05.15.08 1:40 p.m.
Hello everyone. I am just getting use to the world of blogging, so I figured it was time to get up to speed with our new communication methods :) I was driving from work a few years ago and suddenly my mind was bombarded with this idea that excited me. I found myself smiling as I drove, I even forgot I was on the road! But to this day, I still haven't taken that second step to make it a reality. I guess you can say I got stuck on life, working at jobs just to pay the bills and taking a backseat where I have been comfortable for far too long. I came across this site today and I like what I am reading. I am currently studying for my MBA degree and my question is this. Should I continue to wait to take that next step until I graduate and feel more business savvy or quit wasting time and just do it? Any advice would be great :)
Shirley said:
05.15.08 2 p.m.
Hi Ruby--this my first blog, too--congrats on heading toward your MBA. My advice is this: start the research and "baby steps" to opening your business as you continue your education. 1)Get a Fictitious Business Name so you can do legitimate business (research, app, small fee) 2)Line up some funding (I got an AMEX business credit card first not an SBA loan yet) 3) Begin writing and creating (I have yet to write a "business plan" because I KNOW and am proceeding already, though someday I will) 4) Line up a CPA and a business atty as you will eventually want an LLC so your personal assets are not affected by any business liabilities. Hope this helps!
Faye E. said:
05.15.08 3:39 p.m.
Hi,1st time blogger here! Something about the foregoing discussion compelled me to share my own experience of making the transition from a "secure" high paying corporate job to an entrepreneurial adventure. I apologize for 2 consecutive postings, but my story didn’t fit within the allowed 1000 characters. I'm a 40ish woman professional engineer with loads of degrees, licenses, etc. After building a successful career as a project manager, working for numerous engineering firms in U.S. and Canada, I realized that no matter how hard I worked, I never got any further. My responsibilities/stress were going through the roof, while rewards/satisfaction lagged far behind. Until one day this perfectly healthy woman got diagnosed with M.S! Needless to say I was devastated. Although the disease had not disabled me physically, the diagnosis wreaked havoc on my mind. I started acting like an inmate awaiting her death sentence. I cried for months, sitting home feeling sorry for myself.
Faye E. said:
05.15.08 3:39 p.m.
Cont….After a year of dark depression, somewhere between MS clinic & countless tests, I came across an idea for a new children's product. Strangely it felt like someone was dictating the whole scenario in my mind. The product is in the patent process now. It’ll be accompanied by a children's book I wrote myself, toys and soon it’ll be a whole enterprise. The book will be published this Aug and the product is due to market in Sept. More on that later. Point of the story: In the last few months that I've undertaken this effort, not only my depression has disappeared, but the numbness in my hands subsided and the limp in my leg is gone. I found a purpose in my life! Instead of fighting to prove my capabilities to some "old boys club" that never deep-down accepted a "woman" in my position, I'm using my capabilities to create something new that will help parents and children, provide an outlet for my creativity, and who knows, might make me a handsome profit down the line!
Shirley said:
05.16.08 5:05 p.m.
Hi Faye--thanks for sharing your personal story and I am sorry for your diagnosis but am happy that you found something that has improved your symptoms. So congrats on the publication of your children's book! You have wonderful opportunities ahead, excitement and purpose...the profits will come (for all of us who dare to think differently). Keep us updated, first time blogger!
Viviana said:
05.17.08 8:11 a.m.
Faye, Ruby, and Shirley--It is WONDERFUL to see three first time bloggers here! We're thrilled that you chose us and we hope you will nest here for quite some time. :-) @Faye, your story is so moving! Thank you for sharing it. To me, that feeling that it is practically being dictated to you inside your head is the true meaning of the over-used word INSPIRED. Have you been following the Yahoo! Seeds For Success contest? One of the finalists is a woman with a business idea for special needs children. Some of the advice she gets from the team of mentors may apply to your business also. http://seedsforsuccess.smallbusiness.yahoo.com/index.php I wish you the best of luck with the patent process and the book, but more importantly I'm just thrilled that your inner happiness is fueling your overall health. Good for you!
Debbie said:
05.18.08 8:39 p.m.
I found it interesting to read so many stories of becoming an entrepreneur. I was a stay-at-home mom when my children were small, but now work full time with a long commute. I have always dreamed of owning my own business, but never had any ideas. As time went by I could almost see my life pass me by. I then new there has got to be something out there for me. Eventually, I began to use more of my creative side that I never made time for. Suddenly I got an idea that would combine doing something that I enjoy with possibly making a profit! I got excited about the idea, but had no idea how to start. So I just started making my product, and after talking to a family member, I got my L.L.C. Now I've made fliers and business cards and sent some out. No bites yet, but with more work, I'll get there. I already have a sense of accomplishment, and I think it's good for my kids to see that if you want something bad enough and you can visualize it, then you CAN do it.
Dorinne said:
05.21.08 9:22 p.m.
Debbie what do you make? I decided last year to explore my creative need and have developed a website and sell at a local outdoor market. I am having a blast! Yes it is good for your kids to see you accomplish your desire and that it requires work! My daughter has been discussing starting her own business, I am thrilled! She has the idea and is doing research to determine the market potential. I know she will be successful because she was a brilliant mind. My son is also highly creative but suffers from a mental illness. When he puts his mind to a project, it becomes a work of art! I firmly believe the time I invested in my children have helped them chose the work they love to do. You will inspire your children to do the same.
Vicki said:
05.30.08 4:49 p.m.
I'm so pleased to have run across this site! I love hearing the stories of all you wonderful women stepping out to chase your goals and dreams. I, myself, recently stepped out of construction and back to my roots of auto racing promoting a product invented by a fellow racer. We struggle with certain aspects of growing a business, and we butt heads... a lot! But knowing that one day this is what will carry me through the rest of my life is a peace I cannot describe! It's what makes all the craziness right now tolerable. (Well, after my faith in God!) It makes undergraduate studies in Bus. Mg'mt easier, too, because I know to what I am applying my newfound knowledge base. That helps when you up and decided to hit college again at FIFTY! I know that I know that I know this is what I am supposed to be doing, so I step out boldly and grab all I can to build our business. God bless you all, and thanks for sharing!
Viviana said:
05.31.08 7:47 p.m.
@Debbie, welcome! Do you have a website for your business? We'd love to see it! @Vicki, welcome to you, too!! Remember that adult students are the BEST students...we know all about deadlines, discipline, using analytical skills, sitting still :-) and many other things that 18 year olds are just now learning. Your business is certainly unique--best of luck with it! Keep us posted on your progress.
Marilynn said:
06.14.08 12:04 a.m.
This site looks great. Personally I've considered my own business for years, but just couldn't see myself marketing. I've been a professional social worker in a hospital setting and left for the corporate world last June for better hours and pay and to get out of the "go-nowhere-rut." In March,I adopted a baby boy at age 54 and got a downsize "pink slip" and 2-weeks severance pay when I arrived back in the country. Fortunately, my previous employer (the hospital) has allowed me to work hourly and I've managed for the past couple of months. I'm more determined now to succeed at my own business. Yesterday I went to the Court House to get the Assumed Name for my business. I plan to continue to work unitl the business is "up and running" so I'll have some income and benefits. I met with someone from the SBA two days ago. I still have alot to learn, but I'm motivated. I want to surround myself with successful women mentors and join professional business women's groups.
Donnalee said:
06.22.08 11:01 p.m.
A few years ago a friend gave me an old computer. Got hooked. Browsing got boring but then I started looking into internet businesses. After going through all the biz offers. I decided I had better learn a WHOLE bunch more. Built my own web site. Found good honest dropshippers, added products and waited for people to flock to my site. I learned to advertise. Now I have a great (not so little site) and have opened a store on eBay. I have found that unusual items sell better. The eBay store is new so doesn't have a whole lot in it yet but is coming along. visit my mall at: http:www.donnaleedragonsandglass.com or my eBay store at http:www.onestop4u.biz No I have not quit my job. Love it. But am having some fun and do make a bit of money. rs. I am proud to be offering a clean-safe net experience for the people that visit my sites. No porn or hate. As a finish: If I can do this in my 60s, starting out with NO computer knowledge, so can anyone. Have a Great Day Donnalee
Shirley said:
06.24.08 7:04 p.m.
Hi All, Marilynn, I too, worked at a hospital (as a Sr. Quality Data Analyst)--I was supporting four hospitals and got burned out and went back to school. Two weeks after I completed my course, I began developing and creating my business (opposite to my schooling) which is a "Grab-N-Go" single portfolio of important documents, backed up on a flashdrive so you can evacuate quickly and easily. I will be direct marketing it to a very affluent market soon.
Viviana said:
06.24.08 9:09 p.m.
Donnalee, Marilyn, and Shirley--welcome to fwm! It is great to hear stories from people who are out there pursuing their dreams--it's an inspiration to everyone who has a business idea in their head and doesn't know where to start. Whether it's getting your business officially named or just spending an hour doing research--even the small steps are STEPS and they will lead you to your goal!
sarah said:
06.26.08 9:07 p.m.
Hi everyone, I have been reading all of your posts! they are great! I am at the beginning stages of starting my internet business idea. I have had a burning desire to do so for the past 12 months, now I am moments away for my site to go up and marketing to begin. I still have fear of the unknown, this can be a very limiting feeling!!! Therefore my business development has been very low cost. Being a young budding entrepreneur, I did not want to invest all of my assets and savings into my idea. I do not feel this is a reflection of 'not believing' in my idea, but more a buffer of my limiting beliefs of fear!!! At the moment I am seeking as much mentorship as possible, it does keep you thriving for success and hungry, oh and keeps that fear at bay!! All the best everyone.. sarah
Phyllis Chowaniok said:
06.27.08 11:03 a.m.
Hello ladies, This is my first time blogging on this site. I am so impressed with all of you for what you are doing. You are a very encouraging and inspiring group of women. I too long for the day that I can start a business. However, I am still brainstorming to see what it is that I can do. It seems that areas that I am interested in are sort of saturated eg health and fitness, children, fasion etc. I hope that one of these days I am going to say "Eureka" I am so excited about all the things that you are doing....I can't believe people can so much fun at a produce market:) way to go gal!!!!I look forward to reading and giving input, to inspire and be inspired!!!!
Trina Campbell said:
07.05.08 10:15 p.m.
Hello Ladies, I am so proud of all of you for being courageous and building your own business. I do have a three year old medical billing business and I am looking to expand to a bigger scale. I am in the need for about 50,000 to begin my expansion. Ladies keep the chin up and keep being inspired and never give up on your dreams.(I'm not).
Connie Al said:
07.09.08 6:20 a.m.
Hello Ladies! This is my first time blogging. I happened upon this site and have enjoyed reading all of the comments. I became an independent insurance agent in January, after working for a major insurance company for several years. My business is going very slowly. I don't have much capital for advertising. I have tried other low cost methods of getting the word out ( purchasing leads, cold calling, passing out business cards and flyers). I feel very passionate about my business and helping others to protect their families. Any suggestions anyone?
Shirley said:
07.15.08 1:53 a.m.
I am currently working on a direct marketing postcard ad which will hit 25,000 upscale homes in 4 cities shortly. It is costly...but I believe worth the risk. I also post my co. info on bulletin boards, etc., (but it must be eye-appealing!)
Cassandra said:
07.17.08 11:28 p.m.
I am 24 and have been dreaming of opening a bed and breakfast in memory of my mother. My mother passed away this past January and she was such a wonderful and inspiring woman. Her dream was to open a bed and breakfast and I want to follow in her footsteps and carry out her dream. Just recently I have been carefully thinking out details and planning small things trying to get myself lined up to begin my journey to a small business owner in Western NY. Knowing where to start is overwhelming but since my mother has passed it has been weighing on my heart to carry her dream out. I am trying to get myself back into school and take some business marketing classes to start out with and I have also been jotting down random things of what I foresee in the future for this business that I dream of. I am also trying to go to culinary school to expand my qualifications and experience.
Mary said:
07.18.08 8:40 a.m.
Thanks to you all ladies, you have really inspired me! I have also been dreaming of having my own business. At the moment am pursuing a business degree, and feel I cant wait to start mine. Being a student and starting a business is the most difficult especially when you have to pay the fees yourself with the petty money you get from casual work especially in the third world country. I believe with the inspiration I have gotten from you all I will also be able to start mine.
Viviana said:
07.20.08 8:59 a.m.
It is so wonderful to hear from all of you--your dreams to open businesses are inspiring! @Cassandra, your story is incredibly touching--I've been thinking about it ever since I read your comment. I know that you'll honor your mother's memory with your bed and breakfast. The best businesses (especially in the hospitality industry) are those that infuse who they are into every little corner of their service.
Vickie said:
08.07.08 4:58 p.m.
Hi. I just found this site and plan on being back to read more. I am 42 years old and opened my business 4 years ago next month. I restore old photographs and transfer old home movies to dvd. Everyone loves what i'm doing, but it's still not paying me. I've worked for 4 years for no pay, but i think i'm almost there. (I also work about 40 hours doing accounting for others to pay my rent and car payment - i'm single and supporting myself right now). I am doing everything by myself and have struggles with many different things. I'm hopeful with all of the women here to get some great advice. Anyway, just wanted to drop in and introduce myself :D Have a great day!
Sandy Reed said:
09.20.08 3:09 p.m.
Hi Everyone! I also worked for a large corporation - for 24 years. In 1995, I saw the handwriting on the wall. It definitely was not the same company in which I had started working. Politics, layoffs, and negativity had taken its toll. I had felt the pull to work at home for many years. Although I wasn't in the best shape financially, I felt divinely guided to get out and move on, so I listened and I'm so glad I did... I have worked in a family business since that time, and went into the coaching field. I am now in the process of starting a new company the International Association of Women in Family Enterprises (IAWIFE). It's an organization of women in family business supporting each other, and getting help in achieving business success. I know this is the right business at the right time. I can hardly wait to see who joins me!
Yolanda said:
09.24.08 10:56 p.m.
Hello All, I stumbled upon this website by the way of research and I am so glad I did!! Women inspiring women - it's what keeps the earth from spinning off its axis. I echo the feelings of so many of you with dreams of owning my own business. After years of doing various jobs, I found my niche in the business development and consulting industry while I was working for a large training company. Being from India and having revisited it again after 10 years and doing business there last year, ideas began to explode in my head about my own consulting company. So, I am in the initial stages of a start-up where my focus is to help global companies understand how to do business in the global village by using all the experience I have had in the US and in India. I am open to all advice and suggestions and am thankful for the opportunity to "virtually" meet all you fantastic women. Please feel free to offer any advice that you have for me. Have a great day!
Viviana said:
09.27.08 5:19 p.m.
Hello and welcome, ladies! It's always amazing to hear what others are doing to chase their dreams. I highly recommend checking out some of the recent posts on this blog from women like Carol Frohlinger, who have essential advice for women in business. Hope to hear from you many more times!
Elsa Brodmann said:
10.23.08 4:13 p.m.
Hi Ladies! Same here, I just stumbled onto the site when heading to yahoo. I am a designer and I have just started my clothing label Ottilie Brodmann in Feb. After greaduating with my BFA, all I wanted to do was start a clothing line. With a brief stint in retail and freelance costume design, I finally had the opportunity to start my label back in my hometown of New Orleans. It has been amazing! I must say it has been difficult getting into stores, because of the recent economy, but luckily enough through referrals I have been doing custom orders. I would love to have advice on how to get my name out there, since my business is so new. Thank you so much!!
Leslie said:
11.01.08 4:17 p.m.
Dear Ladies!!! You all have gifts and spirit...BRAVO for moving forward. Cassandra...who thinking of a bed and breakfast...one thing that you have to remember is that your time is not your own until you are well established...this could take 3 to 4 years. I don't mean to be a wet blanket on your dreams...I am living proof. I own a bed and breakfast. I opened my inn in May 2007 and had a great summer both in 2008 and 2007, despite the gas prices. It has been an absolute blast meeting people from all over the world. I am in an absolutely great location. My ideas of taking the best of every where I have stayed and how I would improve on them has paid off greatly. With divine guidance I plan on doing this until I am no longer able to. Good luck in your planning...you may have to just get going to make it work out. Best wishes to all...best of luck to all!! Now , if you would all share where your resources came from...that is what I am looking for...
Kristin Elliott said:
11.02.08 9:17 a.m.
I, too, can agree and attest to the exhilaration and excitement in watching a new (pet product) business grow. The greatest reward has been that Doodie Pack has provided me an avenue to partner with local agencies in their fund raising efforts, to model business ownership to my three young daughters, and to create a venue for my creativity and collaboration with some great people. From my own innovation, to manufacturing, to the marketplace, our product has been so well received and I can't thank all those enough who have supported me thus far! Doodie Pack, "A tidy change in who carries the waste".
geraldine said:
11.05.08 9:28 a.m.
Hi, Ladies, i am very very happy to read the testimonies of my fellow ladies. I am married with kids. Infact, i have worked in an engineering firm for 15 years and nothing has been achieved but i think this is the end of my problem. I want to start my own business but right now, iam financially handicap not only that confused on how to go about it. please i need ur comments and advices. I am interested and willing to hear from you. Thank you.
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