The Business Chat - 10 truths

1. It’s hard. It gets easier.

Make friends in the community, talking about it makes it easier. Sharing information makes it easier. Just knowing that other people are doing what you are doing makes it easier. Acknowledge that sometimes things are hard. Suck it up

2. People want to hear your story, the magic behind your art. Tell your story, why do you make what you do?

I thought my story was kind of weird, it is actually. But weird in a good way, and weird in a way that sets me apart. It makes me who I am. It’s important to know your own story and tell your customers.

3. You can’t please everybody

 Don’t bother trying. Some people just aren’t going to get what you do and it’s a waste of time trying to make them care. Those who care are your target audience, your right people. Focus on them and ignore the rest.

 4. Make things that you like, that fit in with your other work.

Don’t make things just because you think they will sell. They won’t. 

  5. Set your own roadmap to success instead of blindly following someone else.

Know why you are doing what you are doing. What do you want from your micro business? This is YOUR life, YOUR business, what exactly is your idea of success? Define YOUR goals.

 6. Consistency is key.

Whether it’s blog posts, email newsletter, attending craft shows, doing tasks on a consistent basis is critical for success. For some crafters, consistency means every day, for others it may mean every week or every month. One-off or inconsistent activities will get you inconsistent results. Nothing works if you keep changing your mind. Stop doubting yourself and your decisions, pick something, believe in it, and go for it. 100%.

7.  You will make mistakes.

Don’t beat yourself up because you goofed up, it is part of the process. Figure out what went wrong and don’t do it again. Get over it.

 8. Say this to yourself everyday, “I am an artist. I make art.”

It is important to own the words.

9.     9.  Say this to yourself everyday, “I am a manufacturer. I am a maker. I make product.”

It is not crass to sell your work. You are sharing your gift with the world. And if you don’t sell your work you do not have a business.

 10.  It is totally worth it.