In my last post I explained why I started my own business and mentioned I would expand upon the lessons learnt from Red Ribbon Gifts. Today I will share some of those with you.

It's a little cliche but my small business has taught me to trust my instincts. If you think something is a bit dodge then it probably is. Often you are dealing with outsourced "experts" who can easily take advantage of you. Do your research then do some more. Lean their language so they can't walk all over you. Back yourself and never be afraid to ask a silly question.

You do need to do lots of research before taking the plunge into the world of small business however you need to draw the line somewhere. You will never really know if your big idea is going to become a big success if you never give it a go. So, arm yourself with adequate knowledge, put your floaties on and dive in. Trust me, it's sink or swim baby.

When I really sit back and think what else I have learnt - patience comes to mind.  Many (successful) small business owners and corporate types advised me before I started this gig that it would take a good couple of years before I made any money. At the time I was like, yeah whatever, bring it own. But when you are actually living that out, it can seem like forever. Especially if you work part time like I do to support yourself and/or family whilst your business grows, it's going to take even longer. So be patient!

When I reflect on the last couple of years it feels like I have been going for twice as long. Your own business can become all consuming which can make you feel like you have been working a lot harder and longer than you really have. As with everything in life, balance is essential. The easiest way to find work / life balance is to get organised. That may mean you first of all need to tidy and organise your work environment. When you have a handle on that it's time to organise your time. Which brings me to my next point.

One of the best lessons I learnt I learnt from my husband who lucky for me is a financial planner and has a great mind for business. That lesson was to set out a road map for my business by establishing my goals and how I was going to achieve them. I call it 90 day planning. Initially we sat down and I set out my 3 year goals for the business which we broke down into 12 month goals and then quarterly goals. Every quarter I evaluate what I have achieved and what I haven't. I then look at what I need to do over the next 90 days to achieve my 12 monthly goals. I break my tasks down into those that are "business as usual" such as bookkeeping or my monthly newsletter and "project" such as expanding a particular product range. I set out these tasks into my daily diary. Taking the time to do this every 90 days reinvigorates and motivates me to strive towards success.

Speaking of success, I want to make the final point that failure of your business does not mean you are a failure as a person. There are so many variables that can affect your business, some things are just way out of your control. You can count yourself a success just for having the balls to take the plunge into the world of small business ownership.

Feel free to comment on any valuable lessons you have learned from starting your own small business or comment on those above!