When you are a small business whether it’s a blog, an online shop or Etsy shop, a business coach or whatever, there are times where you may come to realize that a change in focus, direction or even services is needed in order to continue and grow.
The reasons for changing directions in your business can be as varied as the businesses themselves but the key to remember is that it’s OK to do it. It does’t mean it will be easy, or smooth or even planned but it is OK and can often be the thing that makes all the difference in moving to that next big milestone.
I started my business in 2005 and my focus was primarily on designing identity and branding for other small businesses. A few years into my business I was hired my a small stationery retailer that functioned much like Minted or Tiny Prints does today where this retailer outsourced independent designers to design for the shop. It was the first time that I realized how much I enjoyed designing for special events and that I was actually really good at it. The company I worked with ended up closing but my desire to continue to design stationery went on and I started offering those services in my own business.
Fast forward another couple years when B and I moved from Philadelphia to Central PA, I quickly realized there wasn’t a big market for business branding services like I was offering but a huge void in custom stationery so I made the leap from a multi-service business to just custom stationery. That change in direction is the reason I was able to stay in business and grow.
Late last year things changed again when I lost both of my employees in a fairly short amount of time. The first, my ‘almost partner’ left pretty unexpectedly and then shortly after, my production assistant left to take her college internship. Losing two amazing employees left me in a really difficult place and put a complete halt on all the momentum that we had going.
Ultimately I was able to find a replacement assistant but the loss of momentum really took a toll on me and where I wanted to go with my business which once again lead me to a new direction. While the new path is a little less clear this time around I am certain that big changes are happening.
If you are looking at changing directions in your business, know that it’s ok as long as your change is happening to lead you closer to your goals.
Leave a Reply