Starting with nothing...

Last night I was asked to give a short presentation on my business as part of a panel of "Women In Business." The following is a short except:

When I started The Pot & Bead I started from nothing.

What I didn't have:

• Formal business background - I'm an engineer. I don't have an MBA, I had never taken a business class and I didn't have any prior experience managing a business or a retail store. My experience in retail was pretty limited to working the cash register at a supermarket when I was in high school.
• Hidden stash of cash - I didn't start my business with any savings. In fact, I had a bit of debt (house, car, student loans, credit cards)
• Experience with the product - Did I mention I was an engineer? I'm not an artist, I didn't know about clay or painting or anything related.

What I did have:

• Books on how to write business plans - A business plan was necessary to acquire financing for the business. There are many good books out there on how to write a business plan and what to put in it.
• Ideas - Opening up a paint your own pottery studio wasn't my first idea or thought. I went through several, researching, learning, and trying to write a business plan. The idea for The Pot & Bead was the one that gelled.
• Resources - There are a wealth of resources out there for anyone who wants to start a business. I am particularly fond of my local Small Business Development Center that holds seminars on starting a business. They also will review your business plan.
• Determination - This, of course, was the key. I spent a great deal of time learning, researching and planning. I wanted to be in business for myself. I was determined to make it happen.

And I did. :) If you have a desire and determination, you can do it, too.