Hello, Wonderful Readers! You’ve Landed in Sarah’s Realm. As an interior designer who’s been navigating this beautiful yet challenging industry for the past two years, I’ve learned a lot about myself, my business, and the world of design. Today, I want to share top valuable lessons I’ve picked up along the way that will help you too to take an informed decision:)
Lesson 1: The Power of Positivity
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of positivity. When things get tough, it’s easy to focus on the negatives. But by maintaining a positive outlook, you can overcome challenges and find new opportunities. I’ve found that having a gratitude journal and practicing mindfulness has helped me stay positive. And sometimes, nothing works, but always remember tomorrow is yet another day, make a to-do list a day before to win the next day!
Lesson 2: Purpose can feel Elusive
There will be moments when you feel lost, doubting your path and questioning your decisions. It’s a common experience for any entrepreneur, but it doesn’t mean you’re on the wrong track. In fact, these moments often precede significant growth. Whenever I’ve felt unsure, I’ve turned back to the ‘why’ of Sarah ÈL Designs—creating spaces that bring joy and comfort to my clients. This keeps me grounded, even when the road ahead seems unclear.
Lesson 3: Hon’ you will be losing friends! And that’s Okay!
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that not everyone will stay in your life when you decide to pursue your dreams. As a business owner, especially in a creative field like interior design, your priorities and time commitments shift. Some friends may not understand or support your journey, and that’s okay. I’ve come to realize that the right people will always stand by you, even if your paths begin to diverge. This lesson isn’t exclusive to business—it’s a natural part of life’s evolution.
Lesson 4: The graph never stays Up or Down!
Business and life don’t follow a straight line. Some months are incredibly successful, while others may leave you questioning everything. In my experience, the key is to stay adaptable and open to the ups and downs. Whether you’re an interior designer or a professional in any other field, expect fluctuations in success and challenges. The key is to ride the waves and trust the process.
Lesson 5: Diversify your Income streams
When I first started Sarah ÈL Designs, I quickly learned that having a side hustle or multiple streams of income is crucial. There will be slow periods in any business, and during those times, having something else that brings in money can ease financial stress and allow you to focus on your passion without pressure. For me, that included offering additional services like SketchUp and 3D renderings. Finding a side gig that aligns with your expertise or interests is always a smart move.
Lesson 6: Books are your best friend!
One of the most beneficial habits I’ve adopted over these two years is reading business books. Tbh, I’m not a reader, lol; but reading has helped me with insights into everything from time management to scaling a business. Regardless of your profession, self-education is key to success. These books aren’t just for entrepreneurs—they offer life lessons applicable to anyone looking to grow personally and professionally.
Lesson 7: Surround yourself with Like-Minded people
Networking has been a game-changer for me. Surrounding myself with other professionals, whether through BNI or other groups, has given me access to a wealth of knowledge and opportunities. These connections have also provided much-needed support on difficult days. The company you keep matters, so make sure you’re surrounded by people who inspire and encourage you.
Lesson 8: Fuel your body for Success
Taking care of your physical health is essential for running a successful business. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating clean, and exercising regularly. I’ve noticed a huge difference in my energy levels and productivity when I prioritize these three things.
Lesson 9: Celebrate small wins!!
It’s easy to get caught up in the big goals, but one of the most rewarding things I’ve learned is to celebrate the small victories. Whether it’s landing a new client or receiving a positive review, acknowledging the little things keeps you motivated and reminds you why you started this journey in the first place.
Conclusion
Running a business, especially in the creative space, is a journey of constant learning, evolving, and sometimes, even failing. But each lesson, whether in interior design or any other field, builds your resilience, knowledge, and passion for what you do. To all aspiring entrepreneurs or creatives out there, keep pushing forward. It’s not always going to be easy, but it will be worth it.
At Sarah ÈL Designs, we believe that every space has a story to tell, and my personal journey over the past two years has shaped how I approach each project. If you’re looking for a partner to transform your home into a reflection of who you are, let’s connect. And remember, no matter where your journey takes you, don’t forget to appreciate the lessons learned along the way.
Thank you for being part of my journey! If you found these insights helpful, share them with someone who might need a little inspiration today.
