Sanne Rothman

TIPS FROM ONE SPOUSE-LY MEMBER

Being a Spouse-ly member and user means understanding valor, dedication and hard
work. So if you landed here, it already means you are far from ordinary. Still, now and
then we can all use insider tips. If you want to start your very own business, you can do
it – no matter your day job. Your professional and personal experiences coupled with a
motivation to pursue a passion are your strongest assets. Spouse-ly is a great example
of small business warriors.

Take my American Wild store on Spouse-ly where I, a retired first responder turned
teacher, sell my books. I’m now a Children’s Author who recently appeared at Barnes
and Noble for my very own Author Signing. I was never expecting to start over…again.
Yet, my passion for writing was ignited by disservices I witnessed in public schools…an
article for another time. But pursuing a passion doesn’t have to stem from dire
circumstances. You can grow a business from a hobby, skill set, lifelong affection or all
the above. Here are 4 tips from someone who’s done it:

KNOW, MAP, PLAY, EMBRACE

1. KNOW the passion you want to pursue and write it down. Like diamonds, we have
   many facets. Yet, entrepreneurship is an elevated DIY project. Translation: pick a
   lane. Set a clear GPS, a direction for what you want to do. Commit to making it a
   reality by jotting down and organizing your ideas. An aesthetic journal will help
   keep your new pursuit top of mind.
   
2. MAP out a plan. Be purposeful by tying your research and efforts to a specific
   framework. Who are your customers? How will you reach them? Why should they
   choose you? Where will you gather resources? Small business needs are ever
   changing. You will benefit plus save time and money when you guide your actions
   within a niche business model. I saw firsthand that while there are good books on
   the school shelves – there are just as many bad, in the sense that many lack critical
   thinking skills or were simply not age-appropriate. I’ve seen the beauty and
   freedom, the growth in children when they are exposed to thoughtful reading. So, I
   designed my books to embed critical thinking, yet still be engaging. You are the best
   person to write the blueprint for your new goal.
   
3. PLAY with innovation. Respect the tried and true, revere experience while
   establishing your own new brand. You don’t have to re-invent the wheel or be
   cutting edge to find success. Expect trial and error, but also have fun by looking
   forward to creating methods that allow your product or service to gain traction.

None of your ideas are too small because when you play with them, you will build on
them. Choosing to be lighthearted will lessen frustrations and allow you to blossom.
Refuse unrealistic timeframes or unreasonable budgets by pursuing your dreams one
journal note at a time.

4. EMBRACE your qualities and believe in yourself – every day! Your traits are the
dynamics that will transform your passion into a business. Embrace family, friends,
faith and Vitamin D – every day. Promoting good vibes within your inner circle will
enrich all you do. And stay connected with Spouse-ly where you can draw
inspiration as you branch out to build on your very own extraordinary.
Help show the big publishers that KidLit matters. Summer reading, book gifts, bedtime
stories and collections can be found at https://spouse-ly.com/store/american-wild/.

Best of luck!
Sanne Rothman