Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nicole Fredricks Jackson, founder of FJ Coaching & Consulting, LLC., located in Minneapolis, MN, USA.

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

My motto: Your professional aspirations and personal satisfaction don't have to be at odds. As an executive and personal coach, I help high corporate performers, whether a manager, counsel or c-suite executives, execute life strategies for a meaningful career and life balance.

Tell us about yourself

As an attorney, educator, doctor of leadership, and an "Achiever" on the Enneagram, I am intimately familiar with the pull to do more and achieve more in your career. And as a mom, partner, daughter, and friend, I know well the desire to be present and enjoy this aspect of life.

Several years ago, despite giving my all to my career and my family, it felt like I was failing in both because I did not think I was getting an A+ in both. As a result, I nearly let go of my career dreams. I remember thinking, "I'm fine - I can just survive for the next 20 years." Then, while in my St. Paul home, I heard this voice inside me yell, "You can't let your dreams go! Figure out how to advance your career and still be an amazing partner and parent. Don't settle!"

The truth is, I didn't know where to start, and I know that is where my clients often are, too. I joined a coaching group, finished my doctorate in leadership, and eventually worked one-to-one with a coach to design the career and life path I wanted. As an educator, I coached many professionals and knew that I wanted to continue to provide that service. So, I launched FJ Coaching & Consulting, LLC.

My mission is to help high-performers, and high-achievers, create and execute life strategies for a meaningful career and life balance. It doesn't have to be overwhelming, and with support and accountability, you can get to where you want to be faster.

When I am not working, I enjoy my time as a soccer mom - anything for my son. And, I love spending time with the love of my life - my husband, whom I met in New Mexico. We enjoy time with our two dogs and traveling to warm weather destinations to escape Minnesota winters.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner was "starting." Embarking on the journey to become a business owner is scary, particularly if you leave the comforts of a well-paying job and benefits. But, to be true to who I am, I had to start my business journey. Once I started, I never looked back. This decision was the right one for me, but it is not the right thing for everyone.

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

The hardest thing about being a business owner is that it can feel lonely. In an 8-5 job, you have comrades with whom you can stand around the water cooler and catch up. As a business owner, it can be easy to find yourself isolated. I learned early to surround myself with other ambitious people - whether that is through networking events or mastermind groups. It makes a difference in how you show up for life and business.

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

  1. Hire a business coach. Not the one who promises you that you will make millions - the one who will walk you through the mundane details you must know to make a business successful. Business is hard work, and you need to have mechanisms to make sure you are hitting your numbers.
  2. Create connections with like-minded people. Join a mastermind group where you can learn from one another, gain new perspectives, and challenge yourself to go harder and smarter after what you want to achieve in business.
  3. Spend less time learning (a/k/a researching) and more time doing. First, if you are constantly in learning mode, you are not moving the needle forward. Yes, you have to learn, but some of the best learning comes from doing. Don't be afraid to fail. Learn from what doesn't work and then pivot. You may have to pivot several times, but the product or service gets more refined as you go. It is a beautiful process.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Life goes quickly, and it's in the moments we get to make it unforgettable. Choose to live a life by design, not default.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.nicolefj.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolefredricksjackson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolefredricksjackson/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolefredricksjackson/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.