Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in finance but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jessie Hopkins, Founder of JAE LLC, located in Dickinson, ND, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a Financial Literacy & Budgeting Coach specializing in realistic financial goals and budgets for individuals and families making $100K+ and still feeling paycheck to paycheck. I offer individualized coaching along with a 12-week budgeting program to assist in building a budget with fall safes in it to ensure success and prepare you to make adjustments to your budget when needed.
Tell us about yourself
I worked in Corporate Banking for ten years and discovered my passion for teaching how to manage finances overall. I spent time doing seminars at the local high school, university & adult learning center and saw the need to show and teach financial literacy. As a mental health advocate, there is a direct correlation between mental health and finances; to bring that to light and assist people in taking control of their finances instead of letting their finances control them is a driving force of my business.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Clients check back after they continue to hit goals to thank me for freeing them from the hold they previously felt and the success they are now feeling.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Knowing when to ask for help. I have always been a very independent person and often would get bogged down in learning how to do something instead of just asking for help. It is important in business to be confident with what you know and okay with what you don't. There is definitely someone out there that can help with the parts you struggle with, don't let that delay your dream.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't Downplay Yourself Or Your Business
Be confident with what you know and be proud of what you are doing. Don't use words to minimize what it is you are doing but instead, speak confidently about yourself and your business. Yes, in classification, you may be running a small business, but instead of saying it that way and making yourself "little," be proud of the business you are running and being a business owner. - Remember That Before Being A Business Owner, You Were A Person
Don't get so lost in your business that you forget who you are and the things that you enjoy. Set out to do things for yourself as well, not necessarily big extravagant things but even the simple things that often get lost when you have a business. Take a bath in the middle of the day or a timeout for yourself at your favorite coffee shop. - Do Not Diversify Too Fast
Get really good and one thing, then add in another. Expanding doesn't need to happen right away. Be prepared to make changes but do not add in more until you can give it the focus it deserves.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.jaefinancialservices.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JAEfinancialservices
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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