Comments on: Lessons from Obama in running your own business

By: Debra Gould

Debra Gould — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 14:24:16 +0000

Thank you all for sharing your comments on this. I think it really helps others who are too afraid to take that first step, to realize we all started from that place. I also want to congratulate all of you on your professional looking websites. That’s all part of the right image you need to put out there to give others the confidence to hire you.

Keep those comments coming. I know it will inspire others to get out there and go for it!

By: Patrice Sweet

Patrice Sweet — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 10:41:09 +0000

What a great to look at those first job jitters!

It’s so true that if you love doing this type of work, and want to build a business doing it, you just need to put yourself out there and go for it. Staying focused on the project really helped me when I got started. I was so excited that a realtor was willing to hire me! Then it was just a matter of moving forward with confidence, even if I didn’t always feel as confident as I tried to look. I love the Obama analogy. It’s true for all of us when we start something new. There is no way of anticipating what each home will need. That’s where creativity comes in! And clients really appreaciate creative solutions to their problems.

When I started my business Stunning Spaces, in York, Maine over 3 years ago, there was no way to know where it would take me. But one step at a time it has taken me to some very interesting places, with some wonderful success stories in my pocket. I look forward to growing in new ways with each new day.

By: Gary Baugher

Gary Baugher — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:28:57 +0000

I recall when I started my staging career almost three years ago and created my company in Nashville , Tn. An Eye 4 Change , I thought how can I call my self a professional stager when I have never had a client. Despite this I was off to my first consultation with business cards , brochure, portfollio in hand
( actually photos of my own home ) . I not only got the job, but convinced an agent who did’nt believe staging worked. The house sold within days , first showing !!!! That gave me the confidence I needed. When I doubt myself I always think back to that day. Through Debra’s training program I gained the skills and confidence I have today. Thanks Debra !!!

By: Suzanne Manlove

Suzanne Manlove — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 13:53:27 +0000

I wholeheartedly agree with Debra’s recommendation to “act the part” – when I was inventing my home staging business, Arlington Home Staging, I had a hard time believing I could become a successful stager because I hadn’t done it yet. A part of my solution was hiring an amazing life coach to help me work through my “blocks” to fully realize my potential and start to live my dream. I found that the more people I told about my business, using self-affirming language like “I am a home staging professional, I run my own business helping people….,” the more I became a home stager. Put yourself out there, break out of your safe-zone and believe in yourself and you will succeed!