This year, I HUSTLED. It was way more than work. I went through all red lights, didn’t stop to ask permission and made zero excuses. During a conversation this summer, my mentor Dr. Joe. Dudley Sr asked me “What do you have now that could help you get started?” I knew I needed thousands upon thousands to create a line of product for Miss Business but he helped me realize that I was jumping the gun. I didn’t need to be at the finish line when I had yet to even start the race. I wasn’t allowing myself to lap the track. In other words, I was so worried about the bigger picture that I forgot about the importance of the process. After our conversation, I came up with a list of things that could give me a start to reaching my financial goal. Here’s an insight into how I funded my 1st product which I plan to release in 2014:
1. I received a pair of $250 lower level concert tickets to Beyonce’s Mrs. Carter Show. I flipped it and sold them for $1200. I’m a hardcore Beyonce fan but I didn’t feel right watching a powerful woman live out her dreams on stage while I dwelled on mine. It wasn’t a hard decision to make. Going to her concert felt like a luxury that I had not earned.There is a difference between being inspired and distracted. I’ve learned that just because you can, doesn’t mean you have to.
2. I sold one of my two cars for my asking price of $1000 (it was a 97 Honda Accord that was in fair condition. It was the first car my parents brought me during my freshman year of college).
3. For a while now, I’ve been saving to upgrade my current car (99 Toyota Camry) but I don’t believe in a car note, leases or financing. A while back, I started stashing cash for a Lexus that I’ve been eyeing with the intentions of paying all cash. As much as I want a new ride, fully paid, I decided to appreciate the wheels that I have and put the savings towards Miss Business.
4. I took on several odd projects that didn’t necessarily pay a lot but it was money. Being picky will leave you broke. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve been selective but I’m choosy when I’m not needy. In all other cases, I check my ego at the door.
5. I couponed more this year than ever before and applied the difference towards Miss Business. From groceries, everyday items, clothes, household items, entertainment, gifts and business related purchases, I’ve been able to save a little over $5,000.
There were other factors that played a role in funding my line, like decreasing expenses and cutting back on non-essentials.
I refused to take any vacations until I checked off my goals. Some weeks I only got 10hrs of sleep, 2hrs a day. The truth is, I want this dream more than I want that, that, that or that. Throughout this year, I didn’t want any handouts. I didn’t want any financial assistance. I wanted to fund Miss Business on my own. I needed to make this risk. I had to remind myself daily that my vision is bigger than me so it’s not suppose to feel comfortable.
While some of these have been over the years: I know what broke feels like. I know what sleeping in your car looks like. I know the embarrassment of making decisions from the Dollar menu. I’ve had overdraft fees. I’ve seen only $1.07 in my account. I know what an eviction notice and padlock looks like. I know how it feels to be called worthless. I’ve been lied to. I’ve had friends turn into strangers but through it all… I rise. EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.
I WAS BORN TO DO THIS!
In 2014, make your biggest vision come to life. If you’re as authentic as I am, you’ll join the journey. If not, you’ll definitely hear and read about it.
In 2014, F*** em. Pay em no mind. Just shine!
What’s your testimony?