When I thought about writing a blog, I had every intention of starting right from the beginning with a raw, honest, real time account. Not only in the hope that it might help others that may be thinking of starting their own business, but rather selfishly to provide me with a chronological record of my journey to enable some nostalgic reflection in later years. In truth, I would have explained some of my fears, as I remember too well how it felt in the days leading up to the start. Worry, trepidation, excitement, anxiety and a huge feeling of responsibility. A responsibility not only to show my loved ones I could do this, but also to show myself. Little did I know that I needn't have worried so much!
As I awoke on the Monday morning of starting my new business, I quickly realised I was going to be OK. I had made a small announcement on my social medial platforms explaining the birth of the new business; one which undoubtedly hid many of the emotions I have mentioned. The phone started ringing, the support started flowing, and most of all contacts were declaring they had trust in me. Enough trust to want to recommend me, work with me and pay me. With Clients signing up within the first week, following into the second week and the third, I was feeling incredibly grateful.
It probably comes as no surprise to hear that rather than a rocky start fraught with worry and concern, I have found the journey thus far somewhat cathartic. I am the least stressed I have been in a very long time even with the additional responsibility having a business brings, not to mention the constant impostor syndrome and million questions about the 'running the business' side of things rather than the profession that got me here.
I am acutely aware that this may not be sustained week in week out and one thing I must not become is complacent. I must also keep my core values strong and provide the service I have built my reputation on religiously.
But then I am an optimist, tenacious & determined whilst friendly and approachable. Anyone who knows me knows I do everything with every fibre of my being but that I also care. I care about doing a good job. I care about people and I care that they might be worried. It has never mattered to me if I love my employer or despise them; the work I produce is a reflection of my standards and not a reflection of what I feel for them. A job has for me, never been 'just a job'. It is just not in my make up and so I guess now I understand that I was always supposed to do this, even if others saw it in me first. And for those rougher times that may be ahead?
"No one said it would be easy, they just said it would be worth it"
Written by: Hayley Tollervey