So, I tried to keep doing it all by myself for a little while longer but I just burned out. I was selling a mix of livestock, which can't be sold through Amazon FDA, so automating the shipping didn't work either. Over time the market changed as well and the competition picked up considerably. In order to stand out, I should have changed my marketing strategy but I wasn't willing to do that. At the time I wanted a business where I could hide behind the screen.
The marketing in coaching is proactive - people want to see us and it's hard because we have to overcome our fear of being seen, money blocks and a whole bunch of other stuff.
But I didn't need a warehouse and stock anymore and I wasn't on my feet at all hours anymore. I could comfortably do it all after work without shipping deadlines and all the other limiting stuff.
But this isn't about eCommerce or even my business in particular. It's about the things the experience teaches us about business and ourselves - of going out there and trying it out at least, even if it fails. In my previous business, I let others dictate my schedule out of fear of losing the customers, even though I knew it wouldn't work long term.
Don't let others bend who you are to suit them. You'll be miserable and that's not why you went into business in the first place. If you are like me, you want to reduce your work hours but still earn enough to live comfortably, without stress and spend the time we've gained back with friends, family or other things we enjoy doing.
So, don't let anyone tell you that you can't do something. They are just scared and a bit jealous that you are going after your dream. Step 1 / Version 1 of that dream doesn't always work out but it brings you closer to your Grand Vision to make that positive impact, others in your circle are too afraid to make.
Steps 1 and 2 of your journey are not failures, they are expansions to open the doors for the future you. So, take these small hurdles, learn from them and continue on your journey.
If we want to make a difference we need to do what 99% of people on blue planet Earth aren't doing - that is standing up for what we believe in and taking action towards our vision.
That's it from me for now. Have a great day - Monique Parker out.
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