Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rhodesia Jackson, founder of Rhodesia J Designs, located in Lisbon, Portugal.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I help values-driven businesses create brands and websites that celebrate diverse audiences, excluding no one.
Tell us about yourself
I spent the majority of my career working for international corporate marketing teams, which was awesome because I learned a lot about marketing. This was a great match for my design skills. But I always had dreams of starting my own business. The timing just never felt right. That all changed in 2017 when I beat cancer and lost several loved ones within a few months of each other. It was a huge wake-up call and made me realize how short and precious life really is. The timing finally felt right because if not, then when? I decided to stop letting my fears hold me back because I wanted to actually make a difference in other people's lives. I didn't want to keep using my talents to help large corporations grow bigger. That's when I started Rhodesia J Designs. Since then, I've been spending my time creating websites, branding, and other designs for fellow entrepreneurs.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is going full-time. It was a big jump, full of risk, but I wouldn't change it for the world. I wake up every day knowing that I can take on projects that I'm passionate about, will make a difference in the world, and will affect others in a positive way.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things is knowing how to keep work time separate from the rest of your life. It's so easy to get wrapped up in working when you love what you do, and you're passionate about your projects, but when the lines aren't clear, it's easy to get burned out. Keeping a set space and hours for work can help keep boundaries in place.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Never be afraid to voice your opinions on matters you care about, even in your business. Those that don't agree will keep walking, but those that do will be your best and biggest supporters!
- You can never be great without taking risks.
- Take time away to rest, relax, and prioritize your mental health.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://rhodesiajdesigns.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rhodesiaj.designs
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhodesiaj_designs/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhodesiajackson/
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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