Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stephen Shaw, Founder of Contractor Academy, located in Westphal, Nova Scotia, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

My business name is Contractor Academy, and we are a business coach for trade contractors struggling with their business and looking to make it more profitable.

Tell us about yourself

My entrepreneurial journey began when I was fired from a job. At the time, I knew I wanted to be my own boss.

So I started my own landscaping business, and with no knowledge of running a business, I struggled really badly, so badly I almost went bankrupt.

That's when I got obsessed with learning about business. I started taking courses, getting coaching, and reading books. In doing so, I was able to turn things around for myself and have a highly successful business.

Now, I help other contractors make their businesses highly successful, and that's what motivates me every day to see other people succeed.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is pushing myself to higher levels, focusing on self-development so I can be the best version of myself to be able to serve other people at the highest level possible.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

The hardest thing that comes with being a business owner is overcoming the limiting beliefs that hold you back so you can take your life and business to the next level.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Take action today, don't hold off. Every time I start something new and uncomfortable, I always regrated not starting it sooner.
  2. Believe in yourself. You need to be your biggest cheerleader. Trust that you can do it, then take action to make it happen.
  3. Never give up. Starting a business is going to be challenging. It's going to test you. However, if you never give up, you're bound to succeed.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.contractoracademy.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephenshaw84
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephenshaw84/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Stephenshaw84
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenshaw84/


If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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