You are going to see that this blog is not only about soap. I love to share my life, my journey, my experiences. Whether talking about soap, businesses, DIY recipes, and real life - I do hope you enjoy the journey with me!
If you have that inkling deep inside, a twinge of entrepreneurial spirit, or have always known you wanted to have your own business - well, let me share how the benefits can far outweigh the negatives. And also just encourage you to go for it!
My reasoning for wanting to work from home was to be able to still contribute to our household income, but be home with my daughters and be able to help out on our small horse farm. Now, that my life has taken on a new chapter and I am a single mom of two grown daughters, it is even more important that I have a sustainable income every month. My business is in place and I am at a point to work even harder to make Farmhouse Soaps grow.
Ability to Work From Home
In addition to wanting to be my own boss, this was one of the primary reasons for me wanting my own business. I wanted to work from home! I wanted to be there for my kids versus being gone 10 hours a day.
Know your Values
A very dear friend of mine has been coaching me on setting my values for Farmhouse Soaps. I learned early on that this is crucial to establishing the foundation of your business. Your values "have to be personal, they have to stand for something. This is how your business name and who you are will be perceived in the business world." I could write pages about identifying your values. Maybe we will cover that in another post!
It Takes Time!
Building a business doesn't happen over night! It takes time, dedication and commitment. There are up days with home runs and there are down days that are spent in the trenches. But life lessons are learned in both environments. If I had a nickel for every failure I have experienced - well, I would be rich and wouldn't need to even make soap! LOL! But, I am richer personally because of those failures and life lessons.
You're the Money Manager
Being a good steward of your business finances is your responsibility. You decide how the profits are shared, spent, gifted and saved. YOU make the financial decisions - not someone else for you.
Tax Advantages
There are a number of tax advantages to having your own business out of your home and having your office under one roof. You can deduct a part of your home’s operating expenses as business expenses. This can be a percentage of your mortgage, property taxes, insurance, utilities, and/or the expenses of household maintenance. You can deduct mileage, supplies, telephone, internet, office furniture and home improvement in those areas where you work. Always consult a CPA for what expenses are tax deductible.
You Set Your Hours
When life gets crazy - you can set your own personal hours that work for you and your family. You can take time off when needed or work into the wee hours. You set your own schedule!
Your Dream
You are building your dream - not working endless hours building someone else's dream!
Do What You Love
'Nuff said - you will be doing what you LOVE to do!
Little Start Up Cost
Yes, you can begin a business with a moderate investment. It might mean you have to keep your day job for a while until you can build your business, but maybe not.
Don't go into debt to start a business - begin with what you have and let it grow organically!
Try a Network Marketing Company
This is another area that you can begin your own business with very little investment. I love Young Living Essential Oils - I am as passionate about them as I am about my soap. So it is easy to share my story and build a team with Young Living. Since December, 2012, I now have a team of over 250 members. These are amazing people who have become incredible friends. We share our enthusiasm and love of using essential oils with each other and continually support each other.
With as little as a $150 investment, you can begin your own business with Young Living. If this is something that interests you - let me know, I would be happy to share my experience.
So, while these are not rules and/or ideas that are set in stone, they are what have worked for me. I love using Young Living essential oils for my family and our horses and I love to make soap!
God has abundantly blessed my efforts and I give Him all the glory each and every day. He has guided my decisions and given me immense wisdom and direction. He is the foundation of my business and I live to honor Him through my business.
So, if I have ignited a small spark - then the desire is there. Think about what you love to do, pray that God will guide you, give you wisdom, and set your path before you. Then take that first step towards living your dream! If I can do it, anybody can and that includes you!
Have a blessed Saturday and thank you for stopping by!
In His service,
