The Top Four Things I Learned In My First Year As An Entrepreneur

I think I should preface this with the fact that I have always been entrepreneurial. I was raised by a strong mother who was the backbone of our family. From a young age, I watched her keep my father in check as he was really the ultimate entrepreneur. I mean, the man came home one day with the deed to a mountain! He would see an opportunity and would capitalize. I loved the way he had (and still has) vision to see beyond the factors that might make someone else say, “I’ll pass on that one”. No fear.

Somewhere along the way, I became more conservative than I would like to admit. I ran my styling business as a side hustle and it was extremely successful. I styled celebrities, media personalities and campaigns all while working a beyond full time job, which not many knew. So many people who saw my potential and encouraged me to consider following my passion, however, I always told them I was saving and had a certain number in mind to see in my bank account before taking the leap. The truth is, I had long achieved that number, but I was scared. Scared to not have the security of a steady paycheque. Scared, that I would not be talented enough to attract clients. Scared, to allow myself to be great and stand on my own two Prada clad feet. 

The pandemic was very hard on, and continues to be, on so many people. I am writing this because I found myself in a unique position and it gave me a gift in perspective. I found myself at a crossroads and had to make a choice, evolve or remain the same. 

In the spirit of paying it forward, I want to share four lessons I have been blessed with to date. 

Success & Failure Is Exhilarating 

I love generating ideas and I always felt that special gut feeling when I knew I had a great one. In my business now, I decide what to implement and there are highs and lows that come with that responsibility. When you succeed you win and when you lose - you also win. I have learned so much this year through lessons that I would not expect and have built on them.

“You build on failure. You use it as a stepping stone. Close the door on the past. You don't try to forget the mistakes, but you don't dwell on it. You don't let it have any of your energy, or any of your time, or any of your space.” - Johnny Cash 

You Make Your Schedule 

I used to rush to my desk for 7:00am to have a quiet moment to do all the things, even through I would be there long after the compulsory 7.50 hours. In my new life, I have implemented a schedule that (most of the time) allows for an Orange Theory class (to keep me sane) and to address the fact that I am not an early riser. One of the most special things when you work for yourself is your ability to set your own schedule and it’s something I am so grateful for, although, there definitely could be some learning in packing the calendar! Next hire, an assistant! 

"I Do What I Want"

This was my favourite saying when people would ask me to describe myself. As a strong woman, in my past, I would make excuses for my personality and how I came across. It was devastating at the time to feel the need to dull myself to fit a mold that never fit me. I now have the ability to work with clients that have the same energy and values as me. And, if they don’t, that’s ok. If there is someone better suited for the job I am happy to make a referral as I always ensure it is a fit on both sides before embarking on a project. Can we also earmark this as advice to my younger self?!

I Am Grateful 

As I write this, I am very emotional thinking about the life I live now. Sure, I have had challenges this year combined with stress that has had me shed some tears. At the end of the day, I have had the ability to connect with people and work with clients that I have only dreamed about. Some highlights include, travelling to Desolation Sound with Boulevard Magazine to capture an Indigenous fashion story. Also, working with Mortal Kombat star, Ludi Lin coming into fall as the face of Holt Renfrew and not to mention, Aleks Paunovic as the newest member of the MCU in Marvel’s Hawkeye. When you google “tracksuit mafia” it’s very fitting for the pandemic! 

I want to say thank you to everyone that has supported me this past year, you encouraged me to follow my dream. For anyone that is reading this, I want you to know, you can do it too. 

Lean into your fear, I guarantee you will be happy you did. 

xo, Sarah

This article was first published on December 1, 2021