Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in maintenance and organizing services, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Laurie Palau, the founder of Simply B Organized. Laurie is an organizing expert and the host of the podcast - This Organized Life from Pennsylvania, United States.

Tell us all about your business...

I help professional organizers with the business side of the business.

What's your background and motivation to grow as a business owner?

I was naturally organized (not unlike other professional organizers) and decided to take my passion and turn it into a profession. This was back in 2009 when the industry wasn't as mainstream as it is today. I saw the stress, anxiety, and shame that clutter and disorganization caused in people's lives and wanted to help them navigate the overwhelm they felt.

I soon realized that it was less about the stuff and more about how the property was making them feel. My approach has always been helping people first to identify the root of their clutter and then focus on the tactical strategy. As my business grew, I always saw myself as an entrepreneur first and a professional organizer second. Business strategy and value remained at the core of SBO (simply B organized). As much as I enjoyed (and still enjoy) helping to help people live a more organized life, I realized that I equally loved the "business side of the business."

As the professional organizing industry continued to grow, I saw this as an opportunity to help other professional organizers grow and scale their businesses; hence the SBO Partner Program & Mentor Programs were born.

As an entrepreneur, what does success ultimately mean to you

Professionally speaking, making a difference in someone’s life and building a legacy is more significant than mine.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being an entrepreneur?

Having the discipline to show up even when you don't feel like it.

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

  1. Identify your goals and values.
  2. Do you want to own your own business, or do you love the job you would be doing? They are two different things.
  3. Talk to people doing what you do and ask questions, especially now with social media; everything looks glamorous in a square; real life isn't as flawless.

What are some of the things you put in place to maintain a healthy work/life balance and keep it all together?

I am disciplined with my schedule and continually work to create margin in my life. As a small business owner, it's easy to allow work to dominate your life. It requires intentionality to know when to pause and when to delegate. This brings me to the next point, knowing what you're good at and what you're not. When you first start, you need to wear "all the hats," but as your business grows, you will need to outsource or hire people to take over the areas sucking your time.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

If you are going to start a business, your mission has to be more important than just the money.

Where can people find you online?

Website: https://simplyborganized.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplyBorganized
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplyborganized/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/smplyBorganized

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as an entrepreneur or business coach 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.