Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Barika Andrews, Founder and CEO of Simply Unique Coaching, located in Florida, USA.

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

My coaching helps new leaders adopt the mindset and behaviors needed to lead an effective team. I primarily focus on helping new leaders; however, I have several clients who have 5+ years of leadership experience.

Tell us about yourself

I have over 15 years of leadership experience, and I have led over 18+ teams. To be honest, what made me start Simply Unique Coaching was that I saw a gap between what effective leaders knew and what novice leaders knew. I also have seen people get stuck at a novice level of leadership for years because they never received formal leadership training. A person could lead for 20 years and still be a novice if they do not develop the right leadership mind frame and skillsets.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Right now, I would say mentoring others. I am currently working with someone right now who has a lot of potentials, and I am helping them understand the aspects of running an online business as well as being a business owner in the modern age. I always consider it a privilege to help develop others and to eventually see them go and grow.

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

Ensuring that you don't allow your business to take over your personal life, or at least not for long. Whenever you start a business, a lot of work has to go into laying the groundwork. At some points, you may have to force yourself to rest because if you get out of balance, you will work on your business nonstop.

I think that it is really important to continue to take mental breaks, days off, etc. In order to approach work from a fresh perspective. We also should ensure that we maintain our social connections and relationships while we are building our business.

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

  1. Run a business that you are passionate about - having a passion for your industry will help you on the "not-so-awesome" days.
  2. Invest in yourself and in learning about business (this includes your own research and paying for mentors/ programs) - I am so glad that I decided to do this as it has saved me time and it has also kept me from making common errors that new business owners often make. I have had some great mentors that helped me lay the groundwork for my business, and I am still continuing to look for ways to grow.
  3. If possible, try to save one year's salary before going full-time to any business. Depending on your niche, some are instantly profitable; others will grow profit over time. You want to build your business the right way and not have the added pressure of having to pay your personal bills; the more you save, the better.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.simplyuniquecoaching.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplyuniquecoaching
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplyuniquecoaching/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barika-andrews-simply-unique/


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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