Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Paulina Fijałkowska, founder of Pola Fijalko Creative, located in Warsaw, Poland.

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

I am a brand designer, and I work with mindful female-founded brands worldwide. My clients are mostly creative souls that desire to find themselves through their own business journey. In a holistic way, I develop brand identities, packaging designs, social media, and much more.

Tell us about yourself

I have always felt deeply passionate about design and art. After graduating from architecture, I decided that I wanted to start my own creative studio. The concept of freedom in my work and being my own boss had been on my mind already for a few years, so finally, after months of preparation, I took that decision and registered a business.

I don’t believe in motivation or inspiration being a solid foundation that allows the creation of a successful business. My self-discipline and vision are what keep me going every day. Moreover, I love what I do, and even if I wouldn’t be working with real clients, art and design would be a big part of my daily routine anyway.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Finding confidence in my art and creative alignment with my dream audience. I remember being so shy about what I created and never sharing it with anyone. It took me time to feel confident in my skills and finally stand up for myself.

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

There are many things that are challenging in being a business owner - from imposter syndrome to handling difficult situations or simply lack of consistent income. However, I see this as an extreme privilege and opportunity. I am absolutely living my dream life and wouldn’t change it for anything.

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

  1. Think Big. You can not put yourself in the position where you are tolerating bread crumbs only because you are not experienced, or you are just starting out your business. Commit to your goals and keep your standards high from the get-go.
  2. Start before you are ready. Building business takes time, as well as building social media credibility. You don’t have to be perfect or have everything figured out. Start creating a platform for your business before you will register one. This is, in my opinion, super important.
  3. Learn from the mistakes of other people. There are so many things to figure out that you can not make fundamental mistakes, such as working without a contract or messing up your taxes. The seamless design process, your own branding, attracting clients, and much more are part of your own creative journey, no matter how much you are going to be prepared for it. You are going to fail less or more anyway. Obviously, we learn from making mistakes. However, in your own business (and life as well), make micro mistakes, not macro ones.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://polafijalkocreative.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polafijalkocreative/

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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