Biz Life // The Best Investment
When I first went into business for myself last October, I had no idea what I was doing. Ok, I know that doesn't inspire much confidence in those who might consider hiring me, but there's a huge difference in figuring out the glorious puzzle that is someone else's business or career and distilling your own hopes and dreams into a financially viable service. Luckily, I did know one thing and that is to grow your business or your life, you must invest in it. I'm not speaking metaphorically here. Clearly, if you are serious about making changes or starting new, you will invest the time, energy, and tears without much thought, but what I'm talking about is cold, hard cash. Clearly, this is terrifying, especially after giving up a lovely job with a great salary and benefits, knowing you will be living on savings for the foreseeable future.
So over the winter, I made a lot of investments. I invested in a web designer, an online networking group, several e-courses, a graphic designer, etc. Some of these were more helpful than others, but all were valuable in the development of my business from freelance consulting and writing into full-time strategic coaching and leadership development. However, what really made the difference throughout this transition period was hiring my own business coach. Working with the goddess that is Brianne Dossier of Brightly and Co. helped me in a myriad of ways, but most notably:
Helped me figure out and name the direction my business was heading
Have self-confidence and work through a lot of limiting beliefs
Solidify my branding
Adjust to working from home (this was a really hard one for me!)
Hold me accountable to my goals and help me develop new ones
Theses things may seem simple, but when you are in your head, with no co-workers to bounce ideas off of, sometimes the most basic of tasks and accomplishments can seem monumental. So, for anyone navigating a new experience, starting a new venture, or making big changes, for the love of all the is holy, hire a coach!* There are many different types out there - from business to life to all kinds of hybrid mash-ups and super specific niches - at many different price points. Lots of coaches also offer courses or group coaching, if you're not quite ready for one-on-one work just yet.
Hands down, hiring a business coach was the number one best thing I did for business and I think I would have run straight back to working for someone else if I hadn't had her encouragement. So if you're thinking about it, I promise it's the best money you'll spend.
Have questions about hiring a coach? Shoot me an email or join me on Instagram for more discussion!
*By the way, friends, this is not an advertisement for why you should hire me! Of course, I'd love to talk to you and see how we could work together (here's where you can sign up for a free call!) but it's most important that you find someone who works for you! Most coaches offer a free intro call - I recommend chatting with several (and I'm happy to make recommendations) before making any decisions. And when somebody makes you feel excited and powerful, get out that credit card and sign up to work with them before you talk yourself out of it!