Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dan Abramson, Owner of Yoga Joes, located in Portland, OR, USA.

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

I make Yoga Joes - classic green army men figurines, only they're practicing yoga instead of fighting. They're here to keep the inner peace. I made them because I wanted to encourage more boys, men, and military veterans to try yoga.

Tell us about yourself

I got started doing art for advertising, but every digital banner ad I made was just pixels that would eventually disappear and be forgotten with time. I prefer making tangible goods because they're more real to me. And I like seeing total strangers taking photos of my products on social media, and they have a life beyond me.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The New York Times Gift Guide. That was pretty cool.

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

There's always a problem that seems like the end of the world. It can really weigh on you if you're not careful. But there's always a solution, and it's never as bad as it seems.

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

  1. Test your ideas, whether it be ads, a Reddit post, Kickstarter, or talking it through with friends (that give it to you straight. This gives you an opportunity to see if there is even a market for your idea. Some initial preorder sales can really help motivate you to the next level.
  2. Care about details. People notice when you care about what you made, and you're soooo excited to tell them about every little nuance.
  3. Eventually, you've got to let go and let your idea free. Perfect is the enemy of good enough, and oftentimes you have to get out of your own way.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Have fun! People like seeing you have a great time running your own business.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.yogajoes.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yogajoesthetoy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yogajoes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/yogajoes

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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