Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Michael Candelaria, Founder of SageWork Organics, located in Albuquerque, NM, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We handcraft wellness products such as topical magnesium, herbal remedies, candles, spices, and seasonings.
Tell us about yourself
I started our product business as a need for my massage clinic. I made remedies for my clients. I have been growing herbs and preparing remedies for 29 years, and 12 years ago, I decided to incorporate them into my practice, and as I refined and perfected recipes, I decided to focus primarily on the products and get them out into the market. What motivates me most is helping others to feel better and live their most healthy lives possible.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment, I would say, is finding the passion and conviction to keep following my path through the peaks and valleys of the landscape that is owning and operating a small business. Tenacity and the ability to pivot are key.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
We are still in the small business stage, so I would say the hardest part is finding balance while wearing a wide variety of multiple hats, from manufacturing to marketing, bookkeeping, and forecasting. It’s a challenge to remember each and every hat that we, as business owners, must wear while still finding the balance that keeps you sane and healthy.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Know your numbers and your audience, and create a very clear business plan so that when things change, you don’t find yourself chasing the big-picture goals while being pulled in 15 different directions at once. Your business plan can help you stay focused and centered.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://sageworkorganics.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SageWorkOrganics/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Sageworkorganics/
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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