June 12, 2015 remains the best day of my life. It was on this day that my wildest dream came true — I became a small business owner. I was now self-employed. Starting my own business is hands down the best decision I have ever made. But this almost didn’t happen.
To be honest, it took me at least two years to muster the courage to start my consulting business, because, like many other novice entrepreneurs, I was plagued by the fear of failure—after all, I am NOT a risk-taker by nature. I realized that that feeling was in large part due to me having become comfortable in my role at a nonprofit organization at that time. I stayed committed to the organization, hoping that that commitment would soon pay off and that my big breakthrough was on its way. Well, unfortunately for me, that breakthrough never came, and it subsequently became THE defining moment for me. I had decided that I was too talented and passionate about my craft to not seek greater for myself, so, along with the help of a loyal friend, I went online, started the process of incorporation, obtained my Tax ID number from the IRS, and finally, on July 31, my birthday, I left my job. I would be remiss, however, if I didn’t express gratitude for the opportunities presented to me and for the skills I gained at that organization, but, it simply was time to go—because I needed to grow.
This journey has not always been easy or come without its set of frustrations or moments where I question my skills and abilities, (that I still experience to this day matter-of-fact), however, I found that the key to overcoming those moments is to always remember your WHY for becoming a business owner and to never lose sight of that. It was important to me to remember that I do not have to pressure myself to become an expert in my field, I just need passion and the ability to research so that I continue to LEARN and GROW in my subject area. As long as I am willing to put in the work, I will see the results I desire.
It makes me proud to hear my family, friends and supporters express that starting my business has been motivating for them. What they may not realize is that reciprocally, their words are an incredible source of motivation for me too! I truly am humbled and honored to serve others with their professional writing needs, because it is truly what I love to do. Specifically, I love helping grassroots organizations convert their business ideas into workable strategies that become their foundation for success, and I equally enjoy assisting established institutions maintain and capitalize off their current success to flourish to even greater heights.
In this blog, you can expect me to post about my experiences as a consultant, tips with grantwriting/fundraising, inspirational topics, and general topics that I feel are related to my craft. I want this blog to be as interactive as possible, so I invite you to read and then comment your thoughts; I am also open to guest bloggers who have expertise in the area. Also, please check out my social media accounts for new and fresh content.
Finally, I would like to send a message for those of you who have put their dreams of starting a business on hold—STOP DREAMING AND START DOING! I know firsthand the apprehension and fear that can come with starting a business, so I encourage you to re-visit the quote above and commence your voyage toward personal fulfillment, self-sufficiency and financial independence.
THANK YOU so much for stopping by and visiting my site today and for joining me on this journey– I am humbled and deeply grateful for your support. Until next time, take care my friend!
Yours In Service,
Monique