Four Lessons from the Mistakes I Made Early in My Career
Over eight years ago, I embarked on my journey in the birthing world. With my pre-certification work completed and training under my belt, I eagerly launched my business. While my enthusiasm was palpable, there were certain missteps I took that I wish I could revisit. Here are four lessons I learned the hard way, shared in the hope that you can sidestep these pitfalls and find success more swiftly.
Over-relying on Birth Boot Camp for Client Acquisition
While the Birth Boot Camp (BBC) certification carries weight, I mistakenly believed it would be the sole ticket to my success. I soon realized that having the BBC name wasn't enough to automatically attract students or have doula clients queuing up. This realization brought me to my second lesson.
The Importance of Networking
My initial overconfidence in the BBC brand meant I overlooked the significance of networking. While I was acquainted with a few professionals in the field, I didn't actively seek out connections. Building genuine relationships with midwives, doulas, photographers, chiropractors, and others is crucial. Networking isn't just about personal gain; it's about recognizing the mutual value and creating a robust community resource list for your clients.
The Necessity of Business Planning
My initial approach was to dive headfirst without a clear plan. While enthusiasm post-training is commendable, it's essential to lay a solid foundation. A thorough examination of my finances would have been beneficial. Because my husband was the sole provider in our family at the time, every investment in my career was significant. A well-thought-out budget could have guided me towards smarter financial decisions, focusing on long-term returns rather than just cost-saving.
Prioritizing Self-Care
In my eagerness to grow, I overextended myself. I offered discounts, took on more clients than I could manage, and rarely allowed myself a break. This approach, especially with young children, was mentally and physically taxing. It's vital to recognize one's limits and ensure you don't spread yourself too thin. Taking breaks and allowing classes to fill up organically can lead to a more sustainable and fulfilling career.
The excitement of starting a new venture can sometimes cloud judgment. Birth Boot Camp offers a Business Quick Start guide post-training, which I highly recommend. It provides a structured approach, ensuring you remain organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed. If only I had adhered to it more closely!
If you're ready to translate your passion into a purpose, let's connect. Discover the limitless potential of becoming a birth educator and the positive impact it can have on your family's financial well-being.