Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Barry Alder, Founder of The Successful Retiree, located in Kanata, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I coach retirees who are unhappy or not satisfied with their retirement life so that they can reignite their passion for life.
Tell us about yourself
After I retired from my I.T. career, after 40+ years, I found myself directionless. I knew that I wanted to create my own business, but I didn't know what I could offer. After spending a couple of years searching for something that aligned with my interest, skills, and values, I realized two things. The first was that I like helping people. That's been a common thread throughout my life. The second was that there were a lot of other retirees in the same boat. Now I get the chance to help other retirees avoid what I call "Retirement Hell" and create the life of their dreams.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think my biggest accomplishment was learning all the nuts and bolts required to run a successful online business. Although the tech side of the business was easy to learn, it was the marketing side that challenged me the most, and learning that was my personal biggest accomplishment.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The biggest challenge I find with being a business owner is keeping time for my personal interests. All too often, I find that I spend way too much time on the business and neglect spending time on my hobbies and other personal pursuits. You know, the things that also bring joy to life.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Starting a business is going to take a lot longer than you think. It will take longer to learn the new skills you need, it will take longer to put everything in place, and it will take longer to build an active client base.
- Your business is not unique. What you offer can be. Others do the same thing as you. Look at what your successful competitors are doing, learn from them, and add your unique offering or skill to your clients.
- Spend less time on your business than you think is necessary. It may sound counter-intuitive, but spending time away from your business will allow you to refresh yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually so that you can enjoy the business rather than make it into a job.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thesuccessfulretiree.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesuccessfulretiree
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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