It's been one whole year since I opened my small business, Dotty's Farmhouse. In that time, I've learned so much and been blessed with some amazing customers. I wanted to take a moment to reflect on all that I've learned in this first year and to say a big thank you to all of my customers.
Running a small business is a lot of hard work, but it's also been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life...next to being a mother. I'm so thankful for everything I've learned and for all the support my customers have given me.
The first year of opening a small business
Starting a small business is no easy feat. There are a million and one things to think about and prepare for, from the initial planning stages all the way through to the day-to-day running of the business.
For me, opening Dotty's Farmhouse was an unexpected dream come true. I'd always loved giving gifts to see people smile and I love helping and serving others, so starting an online gift boutique seemed like the perfect way to combine those two passions.
The wonderful things God has taught me
When I look back on my first year in business, I'm so grateful for all the wonderful things God has taught me. It's been a steep learning curve, but I feel more confident and excited every day about running my own business. Here are some of the key things God has taught me along the way:
1. The importance of hard work
From the very beginning, I knew that starting my own business would require a lot of hard work. And I've certainly put in long hours over the past year! But it's been worth it, as seeing my business grow and thrive has been hugely rewarding. I've learned that when it comes to business, there's no such thing as a quick fix – it takes time, dedication, and hard work to succeed.
2. The power of prayer
One of the most important things God has taught me is the power of prayer. As a Christian, I know that God is always with me, but running my own business can be lonely at times. Knowing that I can go to God in prayer for guidance and support has been such a comfort, and He has never failed to answer my prayers.
3. The value of patience
Another key lesson I've learned is patience. In business, things don't always go according to plan and there will be setbacks along the way. Learning to be patient – with myself and with others – has been crucial in helping me overcome these challenges.
4. The importance of resilience
Starting my own business hasn't been easy, but it's taught me the importance of resilience. Whenever I face a difficult situation or make a mistake, I try to remind myself that this is all part of the journey and doesn't define me as a person or a business owner. This attitude has helped me to pick myself up after setbacks and keep going even when things are tough.
5. The joy of serving others
Finally, one of the best things about being in business is getting to serve others through what I do. Providing customers with products they love brings me so much joy to know that my business is making a positive impact on those around me. This is something that God has really placed on my heart, and it motivates me to keep going even when times are tough.
In this first year of business, the biggest lesson I learned is providing excellent customer service is one of the most important things you can do for your business. This includes everything from responding quickly to inquiries to going above and beyond to deliver outstanding service. Happy customers are more likely to return and recommend your business to others, so it's worth investing time and effort into getting this right.
Thank YOU for your support
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of my customers for their support over the past year. It has been a difficult year for many businesses, but I am grateful that my customers have continued to support me.
Without the support of my customers and family and friends, my business would not be where it is today. I am thankful for your continued trust and confidence in me and my ability to run this business. I am also grateful for all the relationships that I have built with you over the past year. These relationships make Dotty's Farmhouse special, and I look forward to continuing to serve my customers in the coming years.
Lastly, learning to celebrate my successes helps glorify God
One more important thing that I've learned in my first year of business is that it's important to celebrate successes along the way. It might seem like a small thing, but taking the time to recognize when things are going well can make a big difference.
For me, celebrating my successes helps me to remember why I'm doing this in the first place. I didn't start my business just to make money – I wanted to create something that would make a difference in people's lives. When I see how my business is helping people, it reminds me of why I started Dotty's Farmhouse in the first place.
Not only does celebrating my successes help me to stay motivated, but it also helps to glorify God. Every good thing in my business is a reminder that He is faithful and blessed me with this opportunity.
So, in my first year of business, I learned that it is important to celebrate your successes (big or small) along the way. It might seem like a small thing, but it's made a big difference for me – and I know it will continue to do so in the years to come.
