One Year In: Reflections on My Journey as an Entrepreneur

Whew! It's a little hard to believe that a whole year has passed since I embarked on this incredible journey as an entrepreneur with my own self-care brand. As I sit down to reflect on the past 365 days, I'm overwhelmed by a whirlwind of emotions—pride, excitement, and a whole lot of "OMG!".

It's been a year of growth, challenges, and, most importantly, learning experiences that have shaped both my business and me as an individual.

The Juggling Act

One of the first lessons I learned in this entrepreneurial adventure is the art of balance. In the initial stages, I often found myself working late into the night, trying to tackle every task and meet every deadline. While I occasionally still have very late nights, as time went on, I realized that my personal life and (mental) well-being were taking a back seat.

I've now come to appreciate the importance of setting boundaries. It's definitely a continuous process, but it's a lesson that is slowly bringing harmony back into my life.

Figuring It Out - Solo

Starting a business often feels like navigating unfamiliar waters. What I've learned is that it's perfectly OK not to have all the answers right away (or at all). This journey has been a series of trial and error, with each misstep serving as a valuable lesson.

I've had to wear many hats – from marketing "guru" to customer service representative – and it's been both exhilarating and challenging. However, the satisfaction of seeing my brand grow and evolve makes every moment of uncertainty, worthwhile. Trust me, even when you think you're walking in the dark, you're still moving forward.

Saying No When Your Heart Isn't In It

I've been presented with numerous opportunities and collaborations. At times, it's tempting to say yes to everything that comes my way. But here's the truth I've come to embrace: saying no (or not right now) is sometimes the wisest choice.

I've learned that I thrive when I put my whole heart into something. If a project or collaboration doesn't align with my vision or passion, it's okay to decline politely. Trusting my instincts and knowing when to say no will allow me to focus on what truly matters and deliver my best work. I also very much believe that what's for me will not pass me. So if one door closes, another greater door will open. 

Embracing Growth Through Mistakes

Over the past year, I've discovered that in the face of challenges or setbacks, I sometimes indulge in a brief "pout and pity party" session. But then, I pull myself together, dust off the crumbs of self-pity, and remember that every prosperous entrepreneur has gone through similar puddles of adversity.

What sets us apart is our ability to adapt, learn, and come back even stronger. We're only human after all!

A Journey Just Beginning

As I celebrate the one-year anniversary of JOSEVINE, I'm filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the progress made. But I also recognize that this is just the beginning. The road to success is long and not for the weak *insert ugly cry here*.

I look forward to another year of growth, pushing beyond my boundaries, and discovering new facets of myself as both a business owner and an individual. I'm excited to continue building a brand that brings quality self-care and wellness to the lives of others.

THANK YOU for being a part of this journey with me. Make sure you stick around, because we're just getting started!