Reframing My Mindset for Entrepreneurial Success

Written By?Liz McDonald

Have you questioned your financial stability and what your current money model is? As an education contractor and artist, my income stability has felt vulnerable since 2020, fluctuating and often tied to the timeline of my contract. My most recent contract engagement shook me and led me to see it was time to explore a new path to create financial stability and build a new chapter that would embrace my true brand, innovate the money models open to me, and take control of my destiny as an entrepreneur.

But this would take some heavy lifting as I took a leap of faith.

Reflecting on Your Career Path: The Start of Transformation

My journey began with introspection into my career path. I was faced with a fork in the road after a contract ended. Do I seek new work or take a leap of faith on my own again? I dove into engaging in various courses in the online education world. I realized the potential of merging teaching, my art, and career advising. This deep dive led to my wanting to rebuild my?Cove Coast?platform and showcase the knowledge and expertise I have gained to build a digital legacy for my content. This next chapter was about survival, thriving, and establishing a robust, multifaceted career.

How I Manifested My Financial Stability & Growth for Cove Coast

Seek Inspiration for Guidance

Reading about founders, change makers, and entrepreneurs has been a great catalyst in this chapter. However, taking action with this knowledge and taking steps with this learning by listening, filtering what I heard, and making good choices for me has been a beacon of guidance in my journey. A quote that I have written with my mindset shift have been "Notice what you notice." This phrase reminds me to start with self-awareness and to be mindful of my surroundings and opportunities.

Building a Supportive Network

Building a support team was crucial for the growth of my vision for Cove Coast. I learned to trust my gut this last year but sought out mentors, peers, and professionals who could guide me through the intricacies of creating and growing my business. Courses like?Dotto Tech's?'Build Your Online Business' Bootcamp with?Steve Dotto?pushed me to explore my next chapter and open up my mindset on building online businesses for those of us over 50. The?YMCA Self-Employment Program?also helped me build my network and business plan and connect with the resources and a business coach I needed to make what I had dreamed of and not taken the leap to do. Most importantly, to build this dream, I needed a vital business resource team for my marketing strategy with?Meghan Simington?Consulting to bring these plans to light.

Exploring New Tools for Creating My Online Education Platform

One of the critical tools that transformed my approach to online education was taking countless courses on?Thinkific?in 2023. This platform inspired me to see what was possible. It enabled me to use their structure to design my plan and a platform to help me deliver my courses effectively, reaching a wider audience and creating a sustainable income stream. Most importantly, it connected me with the training, plug-and-play tools, and ability to launch a professional product for creatives.

My Mindset Ah-Ha Moment: Integrating My Plan with My Passion

One of my most significant realizations was understanding the power of integrating different aspects of what I love in my life into a cohesive business model. The synergy between the artistic mediums I love working with, teaching, and career advising experience has opened new avenues for personal and professional growth. Most importantly, this is THE launching pad for my Cove Coast Studio business framework.

Buckle Up: Embracing the Journey

Oh, what a year it has been. This time last year, I had a ‘What Now’ moment. I decided to move my career advising and art business online. I still have my seat belt on because of the transformation I have been on. I want to inspire others to be brave and see how you can pivot your knowledge into something new and exciting.

My Essential Steps for Entrepreneurial Growth

1. Bravery?- Stepping out of my comfort zone and engaging with individuals outside my network was initially daunting. However, it opened up new opportunities for learning and growth.
2. Trust?- Trusting my instincts and connecting with those who support my goals have been crucial. Building a reliable network of mentors and peers provided a solid foundation.
3. Lifelong Learning?- Embracing the mindset of a lifelong learner has been transformative. Recognizing that there is always more to learn, I remain humble and curious, continuously seeking knowledge and improvement.

Embracing Your Own Path to Entrepreneurial Success

Transforming your mindset and taking control of your entrepreneurial journey can open new avenues for personal and professional growth. Embrace the tools, resources, and insights shared here to create a stable and successful future doing what you love.

Reflect and Project: Inspirational Words for Your Journey Ahead

What three words describe your past year and inspire your mindset for the coming chapter in your career? If you could choose one word, what is a word that will guide you in the coming year?

Come check out what I have been working on at?Cove Coast Studio.?