Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with April Bellia, founder of April May Bellia, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Since I sold my business Granola Girl, I have been coaching new entrepreneurs full time. I help new startups launch their product in 3 months, helping them get clear on their brand, who they want to serve, and how to build community through co-creation and collaborations.

Tell us about yourself

I grew up in a family and culture where food was a tool for connection and building community. My parents owned a Filipino bakeshop, and that's how most of their new friendships were formed. We gathered around food. For 12 years, I operated a home-based wedding cake business. Then, in 2011, I launched Granola Girl and created a product where I could meet other like-minded entrepreneurs and build a community around a brand that focused on women's empowerment.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is having an initial vision based on what I'm good at and what I love doing...then seeing it on the store shelves of over 350 stores in western Canada. If I can do it, I can help others turn their visions into reality as well.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

The hardest thing about being a business owner is to get so emotionally attached to our business that we forget about areas of our lives that need attention as well. I have seen relationships break down, health issues arise, and families struggling, all because business owners lose sight of having a balance between work and play. Self-care and self-awareness are crucial to having a successful business.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

I have three commandments for entrepreneurship.

  1. Have other interests besides your business. Not everyone thinks like an entrepreneur.
  2. Although your business is an extension of you, you are not defined by your business. This also means that the success or failure of you as an owner does not determine the success or failure of you as a person.
  3. Learn how to network. Be sincere and genuine.

Bonus tip: Just because you are good at something doesn't mean you have to turn it into a business. Keep enjoying it!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

"YOU CAN. YOU SHOULD. AND IF YOU START, YOU WILL"
-stoneandstars.com

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.aprilmaybellia.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/april.bellia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aprilmaybellia/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.