Since my last post, I’ve been diligently getting back in the swing of hair design and pursuing all the details of setting up my own establishment: finding the right location, discussing leasing terms, applying for an establishment license and EIN, setting up my own bank account, and making inventory decisions.

Now it’s official…

…I’m legally the sole proprietor of my own licensed establishment (a.k.a. a salon chair). It may sound a little anticlimactic after creating a whole business plan around a cafe, but I have been a licensed cosmetologist for 17-years after all, I enjoy helping people, and I love making them feel good; so it just made sense. This path then should be much less intimidating right?

Not really.

Sure I know how to do hair, I’ve had a few business classes, and I’ve got experience managing schedules, budgets, and contracts, but these things don’t put butts in my chair and that’s where the rubber actually hits the road.

This road feels a little dicey.

I’m now open for business, but people aren’t beating down my door. Just like any business, I need paying guests so I can pay my rent and expenses and stay in business. So, how long will it take? Am I doing all the right things? What else do I need to do? Do I even have what it takes to actually make this work?

I need to reign in my worry.

Yes, the real work is just beginning, but I’ve gotten this far haven’t I? The hardest thing about facing new challenges is remembering all you’ve already accomplished and are capable of. If I focus on all I’ve done this year, maybe these next hurdles won’t seem as daunting. I can simply face them one at a time and simply enjoy the journey.

As this Thanksgiving comes to a close, I am truly thankful for where I am today. God is always faithful and has given me a supportive husband and family who are willing to support me in all my new adventures. I’m also thankful for a year of tough lessons which have equipped me to face the challenges ahead.

What are you thankful for?

Don’t forget all the things you’ve overcome–whether big or small–and remember, you can do more than you ever thought or imagined.

Happy Thanksgiving!