Learning From Others

Over the last few weeks, I had the opportunity to interview five different entrepreneurs from the United States. They each had so many valuable things to share. First, I interviewed Barbara, a quilt shop owner. She shared that one of the most important goals for her business is having a place for people to belong to. A place where quilters can show off their work and learn from each other. She also shared with me that to build a successful business you must build something that is flexible and can change. During our time together I saw how much she loves what she does and how much joy she finds in running her quilt shop.

Second, I interviewed Munro who has started multiple companies and his most recent company was in the real estate industry. Munro is such a humble person, always seeking to be the best that he can be. He shared with me the value of constant improvement. He shared how important it is to learn and be teachable, and how much that mindset can help your business. Munro loves learning. Reading books on different business topics and going to workshops is one way that he has worked to grow his knowledge. Munro also warned against avoiding the hard topics when it comes to running a business. While finance and accounting may be difficult, they are crucial to being successful and avoiding them slows down your rate of success.

Third, I interviewed Judah, the owner of a small shop. Judah is such a relaxed person and reminded me that owning a business, though stressful at times, should be something that you enjoy doing. Judah told me that I need to figure out for myself what my idea of success is, and I will be able to make a plan from there. It is hard to be successful in our endeavors when we don’t have a clear goal in mind. She also warned about throwing all my money into my company. Judah said that there are ways that I can save money as I grow and build my business.

Fourth, I interviewed Claire, a business coach. While talking with her I saw how much she loves to help other people. She uses her business to touch the lives of those around her, which is so amazing. Claire advised that as business owners we can’t listen to the fears that our friends and family have for us. Their fears come from a place of love, but we can’t let their fears hold us back. Claire is a huge proponent of dreaming big and knowing exactly what you want to achieve.

Fifth, I interviewed Esther, a photographer. Esther is an ambitious woman with a lot of soul behind her business. During our time together I saw how much she cares about each of her clients and loves what she does. Through our conversation she shared her story with me and how being a business owner is such an amazing chance for personal growth. Esther shared the need to be incredibly resilient in business, even when it’s hard. Owning a business isn’t easy and like most business owners, Esther had to make some adjustments as a result of the pandemic. Esther also shared how important it is as a business owner to be able to meet your clients where they are at and help them with their needs without compromising the core values of your business.

Meeting with each of these entrepreneurs was such an amazing learning experience. Even though they all came from different industries, they each were so excited about what they do and were excited to share their knowledge with me.