Owning a small business- 8 months in

I had no idea when I started my personal styling business in May 2020 that it would have got this big this quick. Don't get me wrong, I had goals set and ideas in my head of where I wanted it to go but I was clueless about when it would have happened or about the number of other opportunities it would have lead to.

I saw it as a hobby in the first lockdown that I could spend all of my time on since University had finished for the year, however 8 months, with over 20,000 followers on Instagram it has become a big part of my life and a big part of my day to day activities. I am now styling and working with brands I never thought possible which just makes me driven to reach more goals and overcome any more obstacles in the way.

Another observation I have made by running my own business is that you really do all of it on your own which has helped me see the importance of all the different roles in order for a business to succeed. I have used multiple platforms such as TikTok and Youtube collaborations to market my business which I have found has helped reach a wider range of audience and that some brands should use more of. Another reminder that I need to keep telling myself is that I don't need to be doing it all the time, constantly replying to messages on Instagram, emails, looking for outfit inspiriation, to stop trying to please everyone and take some time out to relax. This should be encouraged and promoted more within society, small and big business owners.

The fashion industry is definitely one I have been interested in going down since my school days doing textiles club as-well as Art GCSE however I never thought I would create my own business within it. Helping others with outfit ideas, knowing that I am having a positive impact in society is what keeps me going and reminds me why I started and why I love what I do.

I look forward to writing another article when I reach 12 months and be able to tell you how much more I have achieved being a small business owner. If lockdown taught me anything, it's that dreams do come true when you put your mind to them and that consistency really is key.