How I navigated the start up phase for Wondering Creative

Knowing how to navigate a new business in the start up phase is just as exciting as it is a challenging journey. In the first stages of conceptualising Wandering Creative, I found myself contemplating how to shape the foundations of the business, deliver value, and set this business apart from the rest. But these weren’t the only aspest I was figuring out. In the beginning, there are so many things to consider from structuring the business, envisioning its branding and aesthetics, the online presence, the product/service and pricing, to establishing seamless processes. It’s a lot to navigate and can feel overwhelming even if it’s not the first time you’re starting a business from scratch.

Wondering Creative is actually my 4th business, and I was determined that this time around it would be different, that I’d navigate the start-up phase with a newfound approach. So I reached out to Perth based Mentor and entraupaner Nikki Milne from the Perth Collective. I had never worked with a mentor in my previous ventures. Yet, this time, I was determined to seek guidance from someone I admired and whose expertise really resonated with me.

Working with Nikki turned out to be a transformative experience. She empowered me to deconstruct the monumental task of building a business into manageable, bite-sized actions. Instead of being daunted by the entirety of the entrepreneurial journey, I focused on one task at a time. It was about diligently ticking off these milestones, month by month, and step by step reaching the ultimate goal with clarity and confidence.

Here are some tips that I wholeheartldy recomend

Where to start

Divide your grand vision into smaller, actionable steps. Create a roadmap outlining monthly or weekly tasks, and approach them systematically. Focusing on smaller milestones minimizes overwhelm and allows you to progress steadily.

Stick to the plan

In the start up phase of business discipline is key. Trust the process you’ve laid out for yourself. It’s easy to get sidetracked or feel overwhelmed and proceastinate. So stay focused and stick to the plan, ticking things off your list one at a time.

Embrace delegation and seek help

Delegate tasks where possible, outsource when needed, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from peers or experts in your network. Collaboration and asking for help are strengths, not weaknesses.

Makeup use of free resources

There is a huge amount of free recources available for businesses in the start up phase you can make use of. I love Youtube, Podcasts, Blogs, chat GBT and books from the library.

You’ve got this!

Starting a business might seem daunting, but remember, you’re not alone in this. Reach out to communities, network with fellow entrepreneurs, and surround yourself with support. Whether it’s a mentor, one off consulation, a supportive community, or trusted advisors, having a network can make the entrepreneurial journey less daunting and more fulfilling.

To all the aspiring entrepreneurs out there, believe in your vision, break it down into actionable steps, and remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. You’ve got this!