« Older Entries
Newer Entries »
31
Mar

12

Starting a Business When a Lot of Pieces of Your Life Suck

By admin | Filed in Coaches Blog, Coaching Blog

I started Wickedly Chic in June of 2006 with no business or marketing background. I’d spent the last 18 years as a stay-at-home mom and while I was still a stay-at-home mom, I needed a change. I really didn’t know anyone who had ever embarked on a crazy endeavor such as starting up a website and I didn’t have a support system other than my family. And they didn’t really “get it” either. At all.

So what is Wickedly Chic and how on earth did I turn this website into a thriving business?

The focus of Wickedly Chic is to celebrate independent businesses and help to market and promote them to readers that are anxious to hear about what’s available that they may not yet know about. For the business owner, this translates into increased exposure, traffic and sales.

My objective is to provide an entertaining, fun and informative website for women who want something a little edgy, a little spicy, but not too totally off the wall.

I’m motivated by the enthusiasm of the thousands of readers that have enjoyed Wickedly Chic over the past 5 years – as we head into our 6th year.

What were some of the things going on in my life that sucked while I was starting a business with no experience?

Many other things were happening in my life right after I started Wickedly Chic. My ex-husband had me embroiled in a lengthy court battle because, contrary to our divorce agreement, he felt as though he did not have to contribute a dime to my daughter’s college education. He also wanted to cut her off of his health insurance.

He actually made fun of my business in front of the judge and called me and my business “stupid”.

Secondly, my second (and last) husband and myself were being harassed repeatedly through never ending telephone calls by his ex-wife. She called our home and his cell phone over and over again like a 7th grade girl. She did not want his children at our home at all due to the fact that she was jealous and it went on and on and on. Therefore, it was her personal mission to try and make everyone as miserable as she.

So, let’s look at this picture. We have a fairly new marriage, 2 unreasonable exes, 4 children, 2 dogs and a new business. Oh….maybe I should mention that one of the dogs was a year old, had a severe case of separation anxiety and had torn up 3 couches – so far.

And Yet:

There’s a point here and a fairly good one. There are many women out there who think that they just can’t start a business. Or that they shouldn’t start a business. I know some of them. And I am here to let you know…

If I can do it and muddle through to a successful venture (and really that’s what most of us do anyway…muddle through) then most women can do it, too. The next time that you are telling yourself that you “can’t”, just think about Wickedly Chic and use these words instead – “I will.”

Let’s be honest. Will it ever be easy? No. But the joys of owning your own business and controlling your destiny will surpass anything else. I’ve entered a world that I never knew existed and have met many many people that I never would have crossed paths with. How can you argue with waking up in the morning and thinking, “What can I create today?“

Except when you are having one of those days. Then…my advice to you is chocolate and lots of it.

 

Liz is the Editor of Wickedly Chic, http://www.wickedlychic.com, the hottest destination for shoppers seeking advice and product recommendations from the world of independent businesses. Liz’s experience as trend-spotter for her two daughters led her to Wickedly Chic in June of 2006.

She is passionate about independent business and works hard to keep her readers both entertained and informed and to promote the businesses that are marketed within Wickedly Chic.

 

12 Comments so far. Join the Conversation

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
digg  del.icio.us  TRACK  TOP
25
Mar

0

How did Virtually Helps get here?

By admin | Filed in Coaches Blog, Coaching Blog, Strategy Sessions Blog

You may be at a point in your entrepreneurship where you’re wondering “What was I thinking? This starting a business thing is harder than I thought!” Well, sista you’re asking the choir (I’m there in the alto section).

We all have our reasons for starting a business – and they’re all very good, don’t let anyone tell you differently! But there are and will be days you need to remind yourself just why you took on your particular challenge. I will be honest with you – I still do once in a while. Some of you reading my story will think, that’s not so bad. Or you did that and you’re still working ON your business? First thing as my business coach, the wonderful Ali Rodriguez told me – you are always working ON your business so you can work in your business.

So, what inspired me to get going? What were the set of circumstances that said “Liz you need to start up your own business”? OK, up until recently I have been reluctant to discuss the full, real reason. I have “unspecified seizures disorder” – most commonly known as epilepsy. In many cases people can lead normal lives depending on the degree of seizures – there are people who are in worse situations than me. Without going into full details, because of side-effects of my medications I can’t work in a corporate office situation. My medications make me sleepy – to the point of I need to sleep NOW and at times for up to 90 minutes. No employer in the world is going to let an employee take a nap at work! Doesn’t matter that after the nap I’m sharp and ready to go.

So, I was “let go” because of my seizures from by last employment as an administrative assistant. There I was sitting at home – frustrated. I could work! I needed to work! I had all the software I needed to do the work of an admin but no one to do the work for. A former boss struck out on his own and would have me work with him on his projects (I continue to amaze him and he impresses his clients), but that wasn’t enough. I found another person to work for – starting off doing little things and that expanded. Because of these two I was encouraged to start my business.

Now I have more clients and always looking to work with more. One of the many fantastic things about owning my own business – I can set the parameters. I enjoy the “it makes my heart SING” times because I work with my clients. I have a blast when I teach a couple of classes for the local adult community education group. This is my joy, my bliss, my reason for “singing” in the alto section of that choir I mentioned at the beginning. Yes, there are times when the tune is a bit off key, but it manages to find its way back.

Please don’t ever give up. Find your tune. The thing – what ever it may be to keep that fire lit to keep you going and not surrender! Remember, the rest of the choir you’re preaching to is here to help – even if it’s to just listen and let you vent.

 

Bio Liz LaClair: I have TWO best parts of my life. I’m thrilled to have found my business calling! I truly enjoy working with my clients – the work I do is fun! Check out how I got past my challenges – learn how I’m taking a not so good and making it great. The other best part of my life – I’m married to the love of my life. He’s very supportive of what I’m doing. Who could ask for more?

Be the first to comment

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,
digg  del.icio.us  TRACK  TOP
17
Mar

0

You’re Not Full of It, You’re in the Midst of It.

By admin | Filed in Coaches Blog, Coaching Blog

This may sound strange, but at times my biggest challenge is having multiple passions and being a life long (and fast) learner. If I’m interested in something I pick it up easily. Even if I dislike it intensely, show me how it benefits me or gets me closer to a goal and I’ll warm up to it.

Now most people would perceive this as a strength or superpower, but for the longest time it drove me absolutely crazy. I hated it.

I was jealous of people who knew what they wanted to do seemingly straight from the womb. Ugh. I wanted to find my “it” more than anything, and was frustrated about how long it was taking for something to click. Others were figuring it out, so why can’t I do the same? So after a time, this Queen of Liking Just About Everything felt schizophrenic and unfulfilled.

You will notice I said “was”, yep – past tense. Here’s a story of how I got OK with my multiple passionality.

I’m an information product junkie. I love reading what people put out because it gives me an inside view of how they think – this energizes me. Plus, I’m a very good judge of the product’s value and picking things that suit my needs at the time or in the near future. One day while organizing computer files, I got everything in one place. For the first time I could see how huge my information product library was. I’d been gathering products since 2009 and had quite a collection. But of course, I was on an e-zine list and something came through. My interest was perked. I’d coached with this person before so I took a look.

This time it was different. As I read the story describing the product, I wasn’t doing the wantWantWANT dance and pushing the “buy me” button right away. As the ad campaign was ending, the course creators emailed the non buyers inviting us to tell them why we hadn’t yet bought their program.

Here’s what I wrote:
“I’m afraid if I don’t show some success soon, people will think I’m full of shit and won’t want me as a customer anymore.”

Admitting that was raw for me and the complete truth. I felt a little funny as I reread that sentence but decided to send it anyway. As I went about my business, I was curious if I’d get a response or not. They responded and what I got was something I’ll keep in mind forever. Here’s what they said -

“….There is a world of difference between someone who’s full of shit and someone who’s working through shit. We all work through shit, and sometimes it takes a hell of a lot longer than others.

Sometimes it takes long enough that we start to believe WE are full of shit. But the truth is that as long as you’re looking for ways to keep working through it, you’re learning, you’re seeking out the help or support you need, you’re taking steps, you’re working through it… then you’re not full of shit.

You’re just someone who’s in the midst of shit. And that’s a really important distinction–even more important for you to know than for the people from whom you’re buying.

Don’t give up, Linda. Whether you decide this product is the right fit for you at this time or not, just don’t give up.”

That was exactly what I needed to hear. Don’t give up – even when you’re in the midst of shit and feel like you’re doing nothing. You are doing something, I promise.

Final thoughts:
1. If you’ve not quite found the delicious thing that holds your attention even if only for a minute – or a decade…who cares? Don’t Give Up. It will come.

2. For some of you it’s more about the quest and sampling of life’s buffet. If you are circling something over and over, maybe you’re supposed to. There’s value to get from the experience. As long as you are enjoying the process, go with it and don’t worry. If a project you liked starts to bug you, or its not fun anymore – put it down. Do something else and wait to see if it calls you back to pick it up again.

Remember that sometimes – In the midst is the place to be!

P.S. I didn’t buy that day. The email response was the real takeaway and worth ten times the price of any course. 

Bio: Linda is an empathic Coachsultant guiding people to empowerment, piece of mind, connection, good times, and proper wig selection. If you’re sick of dating the same people over and over – but with different tattoos – join Linda as she talks about Sex & Self Respect at
Don’t Go Home With Him! – “Self Respect for The Desperate”
http://dontgohomewithhim.com

–

Be the first to comment

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
digg  del.icio.us  TRACK  TOP
14
Mar

0

Dealing with Someone whose Moods Change like the Wind

By admin | Filed in Strategy Sessions Blog

Dealing with Someone whose Moods Change like the Wind

Two minute audio on Dealing with Someone whose Moods change like the wind.  Do you deal with someone who makes your stomach clench when you think about seeing them because they are so un predicable with their moods?

Be the first to comment

digg  del.icio.us  TRACK  TOP
10
Mar

7

Why the experts can’t teach you everything you need to know

By admin | Filed in Coaches Blog, Coaching Blog, Strategy Sessions Blog

If you are like me, and most other online entrepreneurs, you’ve sought the counsel and advice of people who’ve been successful online. There’s no shortage of “experts” who want to sell you the “secret to their success.” And, for the most part, it’s good to find out what’s worked for others. We get in trouble, however, when we blindly apply someone else’s “formula” to our own endeavors. See, just because something works for one person does not mean it will work for you. In fact, the very things that worked for someone else may be disastrous for you.

I took a year-long class with an online “super star.”  She had great advice, and the 70 or so people in her program worked to apply it. It worked for some; it failed miserably for others. When we fail at implementing the advice of someone who is more successful than us, we tend to blame ourselves. The “teacher” is successful. Some of her followers are successful. The problem must lie with us and our execution. We must have forgotten some crucial step. And, we beat ourselves up, or look for internal flaws, to such an extent that we want to just give up.

I have a unique perspective on this, as I am an astrologer. When I first started studying astrology, I was STUNNED by the fact that one person was wired to be successful being organized, while another was wired to be successful by letting disorder reign. Seriously. Organization and order do not work for some. It can actually make things worse! Some people need to take more charge of their lives. Others need to learn to go with the flow.

As I got more into astrology, I studied the chart of this “online superstar” with whom I studied. (She didn’t want an astrological reading for herself but she graciously provided the details needed for me to cast her chart.)  Sure enough, she was doing, what I call, “working her chart.” Although she’d never had a reading before, through her own spiritual exploration, she had discovered what worked best for her. Furthermore, she was “set up” to be someone who excelled in business, as an entrepreneur. Not only was she going about success in the right way, her definition of “success” fit her personality as well.

Which brings me to another point – what is “successful” to one person may not be successful for you. If you really, truly want to be an entrepreneur, then, yes, you are probably “wired” to be one. But, if you really want to be a children’s book author who doesn’t worry about the money side of things, or to work in an office with lots of other people, or work at home, with your children – then that’s “success” for you.

We are all unique individuals. I know we are TOLD that over and over again but the examples provided for us do not back this up. We all get herded into one or two definitions of what it means to be successful and provided one or two formulas of how to reach this success. Individuality be damned.

I’m here to say that the only way you are going to be truly successful, and truly at peace, is to pursue your own definition of success, in your own way. How do you do that? That varies from person to person as well. I have many clients who find that their astrological charts provide a long sought-after “user’s manual” for their lives. Other people find this through meditation, or trial and error, or connecting with just the right mentor. The important thing, underneath all of this, is to know and trust yourself.  If you’re applying the advice of an entrepreneurial superstar and it’s not working –check in to see if it feels right to you. If you know that every time you try to “go with the flow”, you fail miserably, stop doing it. Try planning and organizing instead. If you work best with several different projects but you’re being told to pick one and focus – don’t. If someone tells you to have many different irons in the fire but that stresses you out – then do what brings you peace and focus. Try something, make small adjustments, evolve.

Learn from others but be true to yourself. You’re the only expert you’ll ever need.

Jennifer L Shelton is the founder and administrator of FemCentral, the Virtual Institute for Women, where she also works as an astrologer, intuitive coach and instructor. She teaches undergraduate, online classes in global cultures for Franklin University and works as an education, outreach and training consultant. She’s a writer. She’s a mom. She’s gloriously busy doing the things she loves.

 

7 Comments so far. Join the Conversation

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,
digg  del.icio.us  TRACK  TOP
3
Mar

1

When things are tough, keep moving forward

By admin | Filed in Coaches Blog, Coaching Blog, Strategy Sessions Blog

When I started my first business I was searching for a niche.  Since I was in the financial industry at the time, my coach thought that the most logical place for me to start was as a financial coach.   Not really having much of a voice in my life at that time, I just decided to go with her idea.

My coach taught me how to do joint ventures and with that knowledge, I set out to fill up my new group-coaching program.  I was pretty successful and was able to sign people into two separate coaching programs.  You would think I would be happy to have clients.

Well, I wasn’t happy, I was miserable.  I loved my clients, but every time I had to teach a class, I would get really nervous.  I had all these mixed feelings that I really couldn’t sort out.  Then one morning I woke up and thought, I have to figure out why I’m not happy in my own business.  I had always wanted to have a successful business, but was this how it feels?  It couldn’t be.

I finally broke down one day with a colleague and just laid it all out.  She listened to me, than said, you really don’t want to be a wealth coach do you?  And I said no I don’t.

I decided to really take a look at what made me happy and after much inner work, I came to the conclusion that my true passion was my inner geek-ness!  I loved technology.  I spent most of my career in the computer software industry.  I worked for several different companies as a technical support representative, then moved up the ladder to technical lead, then technical support manager.  I have the ability to learn quickly when it came to computer technology.  So on-line marketing and social media  just seemed to make sense to me and I loved that world.

I knew exactly what I needed to do.  I taught myself everything about social media and Internet marketing, then moved on to learn how to customize WordPress sites.  I was in heaven.  I found my bliss!

I’m now in the middle of another transition into branding and helping others build a unique business around their passion and bliss. I have realized that being an entrepreneur is every changing and upleveling of who you are and Im okay with that.  Change is good!

There have been ups and downs in my business, but what a ride it’s been.  I promised myself that no matter what, I will keep moving forward.


About the Author: Janet Majoulet-Foust is social media marketing specialist and website brand designer who helps businesses create their unique on-line brand.  Janet also coaches business owners how to use WordPress, Internet marketing and social media to market and monetize their business by creating a brand that stands out from the crowd.



1 Comment. Join the Conversation

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
digg  del.icio.us  TRACK  TOP
24
Feb

0

Stretching Yourself

By admin | Filed in Strategy Sessions Blog

When asked to write this article about something that I have overcome in my life my first instinct was to run.  I didn’t think I wanted to be quite that honest with anyone but then I was assured that I didn’t have to reveal any deep dark secrets or bemoan my “dark” side so I thought, okay, I can do that.

It’s not quite that simple though for there are so many things spanning a lifetime and just picking one thing was, a bit overwhelming.  With little thought I have decided to write about the first thing that comes to mind…

I grew up in the Midwest in a relatively strange family and I never quite felt like I quite belonged.  I grew up to be the epitome of the wallflower.  I was once described as being able to walk into a room crowded with people as if I were alone.  I had it down to within a gnat’s ass of perfection.

Fast forward to early adulthood and people found me to be aloof and detached.  I was often accused of thinking I was better than everyone else.  This was not something that would bode well in business and yet, I was terrified to open my mouth thinking that I would make a fool of myself.  I came to the point where if I was to do the things I wanted to do, I would have to move beyond the fear and self-doubt.

It is not something that happened overnight and honestly I still struggle with groups of people but I no longer permit my fear to interfere with what I need to do; what I want to do.

My heart may be beating wildly and my tongue may feel twice its normal size; my hands may sweat and I feel a knot in my stomach but I keep reminding myself that I have a lot to offer and that I’m really great at what I do and somehow, I get through.  Whether it is standing up at a networking meeting and telling about me or my businesses or giving a speech, I find as the years go by that I’m more and more comfortable.

I think the key to overcoming such a basic, learned behavior is to keep practicing and keep putting yourself in positions where you stretch yourself.  The pay-off is huge and the relief from just letting go and moving forward is freeing.  It has opened up a whole new set of opportunities for me that I would have never known were there.  It has made life a hell of a journey.


I am a graphic designer that owns a sign company and I help my clients get the visibility they need through dynamic signage as well as create logos and corporate identities. I concentrate on providing our clients with the “biggest bang for their buck”. You can find me at http://roday.com/


Be the first to comment

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
digg  del.icio.us  TRACK  TOP
10
Feb

7

Are you choosing “Freedom” in 2011?

By admin | Filed in Coaches Blog, Coaching Blog

This time of year, everyone talks about planning, changes, moving-forward, transformations, and some interesting and well-meant resolutions that seldom come to fruition. However, how about “Freedom”? Yes, freedom to be who you are without feeling the “need” to please anyone but yourself?

I often ask my clients for “themes” to kick-start their New Year, and this time, without asking, a young mentee of mine, took the theme from a picture of herself looking into the ocean’s horizon with her back turned to the camera. She was immediately inspired by what that picture symbolized. It meant turning her back to the past and saying “hello” to her future…and in her own words:

“I want to make this year all about me, and I don’t need to make an effort. I will be the way that I want to be, the way that I want to feel, and only the people that are okay with that and like it that way, can be a part of my life”!

I promptly realized that she’s looking for her own mental and internal freedom and only those who understand it, or are on the path to finding it, or are already on their way….will she “allow” them to be in her life’s journey, whether for a minute, a day or for a lifetime. She’s also exercising her freedom to “choose” in advance, who she wants in her life, how, when, where and why. This young lady is wise beyond her years, she also has an inner guidance system telling her what’s best for her, and choosing “Freedom” to be who she is and who she wants to be in the future is amazingly refreshing, beautiful, and deeply profound.

I personally think that freedom is “To get rid of beliefs that hold you back and keep you in prison” (that’s my own quote)….and now, I want to hear from you.

What is “Freedom” and what does it mean to you? Do you want it? Do you long for it? Do you already have it?  Will you choose freedom to be who you are and who you want to be for the rest of your life?

Here’s to “being”…..just who you are!


About Ali:

If you would love to reprint this article, you have my permission as long as no changes are made to the text and you insert this entire bio box in the closing.

Ali helps professionals fuse passion with profits, monetize their expertise, and create a lifestyle to match. Ali’s multi-lingual and multi-cultural background adds diversity to her coaching style and to her business and marketing programs. Her focus is on growth, personal development, success and amazing bottom-line success.

http://VisionForSuccess.biz

Vision For Success
Cypress Point Court
Ormond Beach, Florida 33174-8771

(386) 615-6282

Be sure to connect on Facebook and Twitter:

http://Facebook.com/AliRodriguez

http://Twitter.com/Ali4Coach

7 Comments so far. Join the Conversation

digg  del.icio.us  TRACK  TOP
5
Feb

3

Do Some Friends just Suck?

By admin | Filed in Strategy Sessions Blog

audio src=”File URL/path” options=”special string” id=”string” format=”special string”

Some Friends Just Suck & How to Deal

Click on the 5 minute audio. How do you deal when someone close to you steps on your sprout of an idea? Some friends no matter how long you may know them may just be toxic to your well being. Hear tips on how to handle the situation.

Leave a comment would love to hear your two cents.


3 Comments so far. Join the Conversation

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,
digg  del.icio.us  TRACK  TOP
29
Jan

8

Do You Need Everyone to Like You?

By admin | Filed in Strategy Sessions Blog

Do You Need Everyone to Like You

How many times have you received positive feedback and focus only on the one negative?  Do you feel you need to change your position in hopes that the one negative will change its point of view?

Leave your two cents. Can’t wait to hear what you think!

8 Comments so far. Join the Conversation

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,
digg  del.icio.us  TRACK  TOP
« Older Entries
Newer Entries »