The Rise of New Businesses

During a recent conference, I was struck by the number of attendees who had recently started their own businesses. Sometimes as a side business, sometimes leaving corporate jobs (by choice or by layoff). From coaching and consulting to software design and writing, the entrepreneurial spirit was alive and well. This trend reflects a broader movement towards self-reliance and innovation in our fast-paced job market.

The Value of Unique Voices

Each new business owner I met brought a unique perspective and value proposition. Their willingness to take risks and invest in themselves was inspiring. It reminded me of my own career pivot from marketing and public relations to technology consulting, which allowed me to triple my pay and find a more rewarding, long-term career. And obviously, my own coaching business which I'm founding alongside my corporate career. 

Building a Supportive Community

One common thread among these new entrepreneurs was the importance of community. Many were leveraging their networks for support, feedback, and growth. This sense of community is something I emphasize in my coaching practice and will be a cornerstone of the membership community I'm launching. By providing online courses, monthly challenges, and live Q&A sessions, I aim to create a space where mid-career professionals can thrive. I know first hand that it's in community that people gain perspective, courage, new ways of thinking. You can do it on your own, but I don't know why you would! 

Learning and Innovating

A couple of my favorite interactions were hearing about how Jodi published her own book and just finished recording her audiobook and a new audio course. We follow a lot of the same online teachers, so we had a bunch to talk about. It was totally energizing to hear about her journey and all she's accomplished just by learning about it on her own and knocking down one goal after another. 

Abi at She Makes it Work shared a bit about why her and her partner decided to create their coaching business. She lit up when she told me about creating all the artwork for her gorgeous brand using AI and building their YouTube following. 

The biggest takeaway for me was that there's no time like the present. Jodi and Abi are a step or two ahead of where I am today, and all it made me feel was excited for what's to come. Our journeys are all a bit different, our audiences a bit different, but our motivation and can-do attitudes were totally in line. 

Check them out!

Here are a few of the amazing founders I chatted with recently. Check them out - it's a wide array of cool businesses. And they're all taking what they know and turning it into ways to help more people. Exciting times! What could you build?

• KG Consulting - Technical Project Management
• CX Growth Advisors
• Jodi Hrbek - Author, Speaker and Instructor
• She Makes it Work
• Muse Lab
• Culminate

Is it time to hang your own shingle? 

If you're considering starting your own business, don't underestimate the power of your unique voice and the value you bring. You don't have to be the #1 expert in your thing, you need to be a step or two ahead of some other people who you can help.

Surround yourself with a supportive community and continuously seek opportunities to learn and grow. Join my upcoming membership community to connect with like-minded professionals and access the resources you need to succeed.