The “Magic” Of Technology

The “magic” of technology is truly incredible if you think about it. I was able to benefit from this “magic” last week in my business and thought I would share.

As most of my readers know, I am a divorced, single mom of two wonderful little beings. My Big Girl is 6yrs old and my Little Man is 17 months now. And although I have an incredible supportive family, I have limited childcare. The ROI on live networking events does not usually justify the childcare costs for me. I still need to meet new people to grow my recently re-launched business to create a life for me and the kids of financial independence and prosperity.

So what’s a Mamapreneur to do?

Well, here is what I am doing. I am embracing social media and all its wonderful offerings. I am on Facebook and Twitter and joining chats. There is actually a schedule of all the different chats here.

Since the events are virtual it’s ok if I have background noise or the occasional interruption – no one but me knows.

Well, while tweeting (that is so funny to type – it makes me smile) I came across a chat and decided to check it out. I am not even sure what made me notice that tweet in the flurry of updates. The chat was a group of women entrepreneurs (like me) who were kicking off a virtual retreat with a Twitter party. I was able to join the chat then sign up for the retreat where I met many wonderful women virtually as well as gained incredible insight into my business.

As a result of the virtual retreat I found a like minded group of women entrepreneurs. I am already signed up for another event and have since joined a newly launched organization, NACWE. And just in case I doubted the money I spent to join – I won prizes for being their 100th member!

Sometimes I get overwhelmed by technology. I completely understand the WHY and sometimes struggle with the HOW. I will continue to move outside my comfort zone and ask for guidance from those who know more than I do. The benefits far outweigh the discomfort.

All of this amazing activity triggered some other great thoughts for me. I have been being tugged by an idea for some time now. It’s a book idea that has been formulating for over a year. I gained clear insight as to what it will look like and am looking forward to getting started with it.

I also posted my latest workshop offerings and f*ee teleseminars on my website. I am looking forward to offering more opportunities to work with me in the way that best suits my clients.

Speaking of opportunities, you only have till tomorrow to sign up for “Turning Over a New Leaf” all day intensive workshop on Saturday, October 9th from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Starting A Business – Do You Know What You Are Getting Into?

As a business coach I talk to a good number of people who want to start their own business. Often these people have a great idea for a shop or home bases business. They have a vision of working part time allowing for the freedom to take care of their family, enjoy life all while their business (which of course would be profitable;o) provides a full time income.

Now anyone who owns their own business whether at a physical location or home based, you know the description above is idealized. Wouldn’t everyone open up shop if we could work part time, get paid for full time and have the flexibility and freedom we want? So I thought I would share some of the basics of starting your own business.

- Business Idea of what you want your business to provide or do, who your business would serve or provide for (target market) and where your business will exist (home based or physical space)

- Market research is one of the most neglected areas of small business start up and one of the most important. Market research is gathering information about your target market, where they shop, what they buy, how much they spend, how often and what type of marketing is effective. Without this information you will be shooting your business arrows in the dark at a moving target.

- Start up costs should include enough money for several months (6 months is ideal) and factor in payroll, rent, product/inventory costs, operating costs (utilities, supplies, misc), marketing and advertising. Now this is not a complete list for every business but covers the basics.

- Funding sources for where the start up costs will come from. .. Will you take out a business loan? Do you have a large sum of money lying around? Accurately determining your start up and operating costs will allow you to appropriately plan your financing steps.

- Time line for opening shop should account for any construction needed for the shop space or time to get the website up and running so people know you exist as well as learning to be proficient in any software you will be using in your business such as your online shopping cart, QuickBooks for bookkeeping etc. These items usually take months not weeks to complete and can eat up your start up budget if you are not careful and specific.

- Setting business hours and staffing those hours. A business cannot succeed if it is not open enough hours for customers to come spend their money. Business hours need to be staffed whether by you or by an employee. A physical store may need to be opened 50 – 80 per week while a home based business may need “open hours” of 10-20 hours. These numbers only include hours your business is “open” to the public and does not account for office work etc.

- Location, location, location! If you are opening a physical store this is an issue to pay much attention to and be sure to factor in your competition, parking, and surrounding shops.

- Advertising/marketing your business is a crucial element that any successful business spends huge amounts of time and money on. Your marketing campaign should not be about what YOU like but what will speak to your TARGET MARKET. You will refer back to market research for this.

These are just some basic things to work on as you start formulating your business plan. If you would like more information about starting your business or brining success to your current business contact Kate here or email her at Kate@askcoachkate.com

Only SEVEN more days to sign up and save on our in-person Boston workshop with Kate Powers! Turning Over a New Leaf for a New Life is scheduled for Saturday, October 9, 2010 – learn more about how you can still get a discount off the regular price.

Writer’s block?

Writer’s block, is that what they call it when you can’t seem to settle in and write the words floating in your head? Well, if so then I have it and it is annoying to say the least since I have all the information in my head. I’ve done my research. I know what I want for an end product but I just can’t seem to get my brain and my typing fingers to talk to each other. So what is the real “block” here? Well, I’ve been thinking about that during this struggle between my brain and my fingers and here is what I’ve come up with for myself in this particular situation.

I might have to consider myself a writer

Creating a product is a huge step forward for any business owner who sells services

I am at a crossroads and need to work through my fear, doubt and insecurity to move forward

As a coach, a lot of my information is gleaned from other experts and I care about doing the right thing about where the information came from

It’s a big project and I’m a bit overwhelmed

So here are some things I am doing to deal with my “block”. Feel free to utilize them the next time you are struggling start a project, complete a project, or simply get some work done.

Schedule time for the task so you have the space to get the work done

Start small if the big isn’t coming easy. Within any project are smaller pieces that can be worked on.

Work from the end. Do you know what your end result should be? Then start there and work backward to break it down to manageable chunks

If you are struggling to settle in, take breaks to make the process more enjoyable. Who wants to feel chained to the computer when nothing is flowing? That just perpetuates the unproductivity.

Just start! It doesn’t matter where you start the important thing is to actually start so if you are writing, write even if it is off topic. You can organize and move things around later.

Only FOUR more days to save on our Boston self improvement workshop! Turning Over a New Leaf for a New Life is scheduled for Saturday, October 9, 2010 – learn more about how you can get a discount off the regular price.

Back to School: Taking Control of the Chaos

September is here, and so it begins… the non-stop shuttling to school, from school, to sports, to homework club, to after-school activities and music lessons. Suddenly, you have become a taxi service and your fares NEVER tip! On top of all this, you now have homework, school meetings, and an array of fundraisers to contend with. Of course let’s not forget keeping the house running, memorizing everyone’s schedule and making sure lunches are made, snacks provided and dinners cooked on a daily basis.

Feeling spread a bit thin these days? You’re not alone. And if you’re a mom who also runs her own business… then it’s imperative that you find ways to bring sanity to the seemingly never-ending chaos. Some tips from a working mom who has been there, done that and lived to tell her tales!

- Keep the weekly planner in a central location. If you are a hands-on person, you may prefer a dry erase board. Computer savvy? Try Google calendar or icalendar. These allow you to color code each family member’s weekly itinerary so you can avoid over-booking and other scheduling conflicts.
- Utilize the power of the car pool. Every other Mom is in the same chaos you are — so help each other out and save some gas in the process. Ride-sharing will reduce your stress and anxiety over how to be two or three places at once. Don’t forget to set back up plans in place in case of illness and emergencies.
- Learn when to just say no. We all want to give our kids as many opportunities as possible but at what cost? Most parents would agree, the trend toward over-booking extra-curriculars has worn thin. Remind your kids that studies take precedence over sports, ballet and play dates — and limit to no more than 2 or 3 favorite after-school activities if you can.
- Don’t forget YOU! Pencil your activities into the family calendar along with everyone else’s. This will remind your family that you are also a person beyond your taxi driver status; and that your time is to be valued, your thoughtfulness and caring respected. After all; if you don’t make yourself a priority, who will?

Kate Powers is a Certified Personal Coach and the owner of Ask Coach Kate. She offers life balance and business coaching services for people who have recognized that the key to success and happiness is within their grasp. Find out how the Ask Coach Kate Coaching System will help you achieve your goals. Contact kate@askcoachkate.com for more information today.

Do you have the perseverance of a 6-year-old?

The other evening I enjoyed watching my 6-year-old while she was building an elevated train track for her little brother. She wanted to have the living room “all set up for John to destroy when he woke up in the morning”. Because they tracks were elevated, they collapsed many times during the construction. Each time, she would calmly look at where she was in the building process, assess the situation and determine the best way to restart her project.

At some point, I asked if she wanted to stop to which she quickly answered “no, it’s not built yet”. She was firm in her resolve to finish the project she had mapped out for herself despite the repeated disapointments of collapse and re-build.

As I watched, I thought of how if adults could have the same resolve to complete tasks or achieve goals despite disappointing setbacks, we would achieve much more. So here is what I learned from my 6-year-old this week.

Plan a project with a specific end goal (it helps if the goal benefits others)

Know your WHY so you can quickly refer back to it when things get tough

Realize that sometimes we need to try, try again to achieve our goals – something worth achieving may not come without a little work

Understand that each “failure” is actually an important learning opportunity in what will work and what did not. Do more of what works and less of what doesn’t

Two steps forward, one step back still gives you one step forward and a learning opportunity.

The Turning Over a New Leaf for a New Life workshop is scheduled for Saturday, October 9, 2010 here in Boston. Enjoy a substantial discount off the original price when you purchase today!

Productivity Boosters for the Home Business Owner

So I have been working on a writing project, or more accurately said, trying to start a new writing project — and I just can’t get into a grove with it. We all have this happen to us with certain things. We call it procrastination, spinning our wheels, lack of focus – but regardless of what words you use; you are not getting a lot done. So here are some things I do when I find myself struggling to sit still, type some words or simply complete a task.

Get moving. Whether it’s a 10 minute walk, mini yoga workout, or a little jog, exercise is a great way to clear your head and calm your body.

Caffeinate (or decaffeinate, as the case may be). Did you have your cup of coffee or did you have a cup too many? Either way you may find it hard to settle in to your tasks – so pay attention to your java intake next time you have something big to focus on.

Break it down. Baby steps can be used to complete just about any project or task on your to–do list. Break down that daunting project into manageable bits and start to feel like you actually accomplished something!

Clear your space, clear your mind. Since I work from home, I can’t sit until I fold the laundry and clear the sink. So I’ve made these my morning must-do tasks to get me into a productive groove. A little clean-up now and then can get you settled into your space.

Take it on the road. Sometimes a change of scenery does the trick. Head out to a library or café with internet if that will allow you to complete your work.

Do your prep work. We can spend so much time avoiding a project that by the time we settle in we realize we still have a pile of preliminary research to do. Try tackling this task a little at a time. This will familiarize you with the material so when you are ready to get to it, you may be surprised how much easier you’ve made it for yourself.

Break time. Whether you get yourself a glass of water or switch the laundry, taking breaks can keep things from getting monotonous.

Ready to Turn Over a New Leaf for a New Life? AskCoachKate.com is hosting an in-person workshop here in Boston. It’s meant for anyone who feels ready to “turn over a new leaf” and introduce positive change into their lives. Early Bird discounts are available: learn more and sign up here!

Advice for Crafty Entrepreneur

A reader writes in…

Hi Kate,

Great website you have here. Wondering if you had any ideas for a budding business owner on a tight budget. I know I need basic website design and marketing if I want to get the word out. But I really don’t have the funds to cover these costs. My business is selling crocheted and knitted items…..

Continue reading “Crafty Entrepreneur: Advice Column for Knitting Business”

Re-Launching Vs. Getting a Job

For many mamapreneurs, there comes a time when you must question whether to go back to work full- or part-time, or learn to balance having a home business with being a stay-at-home mom. I work as a life and business coach, but I’m also a single mom of two. For me, the question arose following my divorce.

My little one is almost 16 months and my big girl is 6 years old. It is often many weeks between visits with their father. I will always be the one to take time off when the kids are sick, or there is a snow day, or a vacation from school. That is just the reality of it. These are some of the factors that went into my decision to re-launch my coaching practice instead of getting a job. I need flexibility and I need to earn money – so here I am.

In re-launching my business, I had to be honest with myself about where I am. Would I be setting myself, my kids, and my clients up for disaster? Or was there a way to bring it all together in a way that met everyone’s needs?

Here some ways I make being a single parent and a business owner work to benefit my family.

Maximize my time. By doing a little strategic planning I am able to get more bang for my effort, more income from less time and more enjoyment with the kids.

Create a schedule and stick to it. I have set times for the kids, for nap, bed and for work which I stick to. Having a schedule helps the kids feel settled since they know what to expect and I can appropriately plan.

Hire inside help. I actually pay my 6 year old an allowance to help pick up the disaster my little guy makes. She is thrilled to have a little money and at the end of the day I can sit at the computer knowing the house is pulled together.

Hire outside help. Of course I need to be able to meet with clients, so I hired a great babysitter. She is a long time neighbor just starting college. The kids were already familiar with her, since she has been their camp counselor for the past couple years.

Giving myself the gift of time. By re-launching with a soft launch a year before I need to depend on the income, I am allowing myself to ease into my business again. This way, I can test what works and what doesn’t, what work methods are most effective, what I enjoy the most and how it all fits with the kids. Also, I am able to invest the money that is generated back into the business so when the time comes everything is in place.

Budgeting wisely. Effective budgeting is critical for my business and my family. Again, with some thought I was able to create separate budgets for my family/household and business based on what I was currently earning in my business. And since I can only spend what I make, I’m forced to use those dollars in the most effective ways possible.

Have you faced a similar decision in your own business and/or mamapreneur ventures? Share in the comments section.

For coaching help and support, contact Coach Kate today.

What are YOU joyful about?

Yesterday was HOT! 95 degrees and humid – luckily there was a good breeze. Thunderstorms rolled in around late afternoon. As the sheets of rain started to descend I took my children onto our back deck. They were so excited to play in the rain. They danced, splashed, looked up at the sky, caught raindrops with open mouths. They were not just enjoying themselves…they were JOYFUL. Their whole beings radiated happiness and excitement. It made my heart happy.

So I thought about what makes me joyful and here is my shortlist…my children. Even when I am frustrated or overwhelmed (yes, I feel that way too) my heart swells. We recently had family photos take and I noticed that I look better in the photos with my children. The kids make me look good (wink) and I am joyful when I am with them. Joy shows on your face. Just like being angry, you can’t hide it.
I am joyful when working my business. Whether working with a client, writing a blog post, or planning future projects, I am enjoying where I am at and what I am doing. I have decided to focus on what I LOVE doing in my business more and focus less on what frustrates or overwhelms me. So moving forward I will pay someone to manage my web site since that is a source of stress for me. And yes, we can all do everything but why do it when that task sucks the joy right out of your work or day or life?
When what I am doing is no longer enjoyable, I take a break until I can return to it without frustration. Of course there are certain aspects of our work or business that we like less than other but if I can focus on the result of my actions which will bring more joy instead of the doing which may be boring or frustrating I will get the job done. For the tasks that always cause frustration or overwhelm – I pay someone else to do them.
Finally, the life I am continuing to create for my family brings me such joy. I didn’t know I could have such joy and contentment as a divorced mother of two running my own business. It didn’t just happen that way, I actively created it. I decided on what I truly wanted present in my daily life – love, happiness, peace and contentment. Then I looked at what was keeping me from what I wanted. Then the rest was up to me to change the way I interacted with my ex, my family, my children and my business. Small changes can have a large impact. So as I sit on my back deck, enjoy the early morning with a cup of coffee and the birds chirping I know I have a lot to be grateful for!

Now I ask you…What makes YOU joyful? Are you content in your life? What is it about your work that you enjoy most? Can you do more of it?

If you would like more info on this topic, contact me and we can set a time to chat..

Managing Your Expectations

Recently I attended a networking event and was surprised by the presenter’s inability to hide her disappointment. It was a small group and she clearly had expected more attendees. People appreciated the information she had to offer but not everyone was jumping out of their seats to become her paying clients. So this made me think about a few things…

Now we all know as entrepreneurs to “think big”. We always bring double the amount of info to hand out “just in case”. We are never without business cards and have our elevator pitch memorized. But what do you do when it goes the other way? When only a few people show up? When everyone politely declines?

Here are a few things I learned in the beginning of my business about situations just like this.

1) ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS remain positive and polite. Be your most gracious self. When the numbers are small, every eye is on YOU every MINUTE. How you conduct yourself has a much stronger impact on each individual than with a large crowd. Potential clients are less likely to become paying clients when they sense negativity.

2)NEVER NEVER NEVER try to force a sale with a small group. Since everyone is intently watching your every move you must ensure your actions encourage potential clients to become paying clients. No one wants to pay to work with someone who is pushy and rude.

3) Have good intentions no matter how many people attend. I have an attitude that no matter what, it is always worth it. Now don’t get me wrong, I am not going to knowingly book to present to a few people when going to the event will cost me with driving time, tolls, babysitter etc. But when I find myself at an event that is smaller than expected I make the best of it and use the opportunity to make a GREAT impression.

How do you manage your expectations when things don’t go as planned?

If you would like more info on this topic, contact me and we can set a time to chat..

« Previous Page — Next Page »