Kim and Jennifer embark on a heartfelt and vulnerable conversation about the highs and lows of running a small business on this episode of The M Word. They peel back the layers of entrepreneurship, revealing the raw emotions and challenges that often are hidden.

Kim shares her realization that running a small business, especially as a sole proprietor, can be incredibly challenging unless the service offered is perceived as high-value. She touches on the struggle of quantifying the value of one’s work without access to client data, highlighting a common hurdle faced by many entrepreneurs.

The conversation takes a personal turn as Kim and Jennifer reflect on their own experiences as small business owners. Kim shares her initial motivations for starting her consulting business, citing the need for flexibility as a parent. However, she candidly admits that her perspective has evolved over time, leading her to question the sustainability of her business model.

Jennifer draws parallels between entrepreneurship and privilege. They discuss the common reliance on partners with stable jobs to provide financial security, shedding light on the often overlooked realities of starting a business.

As they delve deeper into the complexities of success, Kim shares the challenge of conventional definitions of achievement. She acknowledges the pressure to equate success with financial stability and recognition within the community, but ultimately advocates for a more nuanced understanding of success as a personal journey.

Kim talks about the importance of scalability in achieving long-term success, shifting the conversation to the practicalities of running a business. She explains the changing landscape of sales and marketing, emphasizing the need for adaptability in an ever-evolving industry.

In a vulnerable moment, Kim opens up about her decision to transition back to a traditional job, admitting to feelings of failure and shame. However, she finds solace in the realization that her needs and priorities have shifted and that it’s okay to pivot in pursuit of personal fulfillment.  A topic that Kim resonates a lot with is focusing on community and she says that a “big way that I want to impact the world in [communities] is by helping facilitate better connection.” And through sales, marketing, and meeting new people she has found that she has been able to do that and make a difference in the communities around her. In this way, she sees her journey as successful.

Both our host and guest expressed their optimism for continued growth and impact, albeit through different avenues. Kim emphasizes the value of authenticity and vulnerability in entrepreneurship, encouraging listeners to embrace the complexities of their own journeys. Her candid insights and reflections serve as a reminder that success is not always measured in dollars and cents, but in the impact we make on the world around us.

Connect with Kim on LinkedIn.

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