Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Raina Askarova, Owner of Beauty Tricks by Raina, located in Peoria, AZ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a licensed esthetician, and I care for people's skin. My clients consist of men and women who value skin health.
Tell us about yourself
Skin is our largest organ, and I see and treat it as such. I wanted to get into this industry because I want to change the way we view skincare. I see constant misinformation when it comes to the way the skin should look and be cared for. Poreless, airbrushed, single-toned skin is not real. We are not made of porcelain, and our skin should have pores, lines, and minor spots - all of that is natural. My philosophy is healthy skin will give that glow everyone is trying so hard to achieve. Our skin is a remarkable organ that can renew and repair itself when given the right care.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Overcoming the fear of failure has been my biggest accomplishment because it led me to open my business. Numerous risks and "what ifs" are associated with opening and running a business. So many people hold back because of that. Once you learn to let go and trust yourself, those fears turn into opportunities and new discoveries.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Being a business owner means you're working 24/7. I thought I could control my schedule and work as much or as little as I wanted. In reality, my mind is always preoccupied with my business, even when I'm home relaxing with my family. The work never stops. I think finding that balance is the hardest thing. Sometimes I have to put my phone on "Do Not Disturb" and leave it in a separate room to be able to give my children the time and the attention they need.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Sit down and write out your business plan down to every detail. Come up with the initial budget and then add at least 30% to that budget as a safety net.
- Be ready to have no free time for at least a year. If you have nothing to do for your business in that first year, that means you're not doing enough.
- Don't compare yourself to others. This can be tricky but don't get discouraged if you see other businesses in your field doing better. You don't know their full story. Also, looks can be deceiving, especially on social media. Focus on your own business and give it YOUR absolute best.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.btbr.us/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beauty.tricks.by.raina/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beauty_tricks_by_raina/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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