The first step to starting a business is deciding to start a business. They say the first step is the hardest and in our experience this is especially true when it comes to starting a business. Getting over the mental roadblocks can be tough, often harder to overcome than the challenges you’ll face once you actually start the business. Fellow entrepreneurs share their thoughts below.

Libby Goetz | Mastermind of Stitch by Libby

It’s hard to think back and figure out exactly what my thought process was when starting my business. I taught myself to sew with the intentions to make money but I was not sure exactly what my plan was when I started except to keep going and figure out what works best for me personally and at the same time to become more successful! It was a lot of trial and error but I enjoyed what I was doing and wanted to become successful and grow every year! Read more>>

Yiyun Chen | Photographer, artist & college instructor

I never really thought I would create my own business. I was just doing ordinary things in my career. I did many different jobs after moving to Cleveland from China, like waiter, porter, bagger, line cook ets. I can’t say I was enjoying those working experiences, but I appreciate all the people I met. Through these processes, you can eventually find what you love. “You will do better than others if you love it.” I can’t remember who told me this or where I saw these words, but this line is stuck in my head. Read more>>

Crystal Jackson | Holistic Full Sectrum Doula & Midwife assistant

My Biggest Motivation was knowing I was more than a 9-5 girl. I mean dont get me wrong, 9-5 folks are just as important as business owners. But, I always knew I was a free spirit in every form. Over the years life has knocked me around and stolen that freedom. But Im working my way back to her. Read more>>

Abigail Dickhof | Owner & Baker

I have always loved baking and being creative in the kitchen. In the spring of 2020, when we all had a little bit of extra free time, (thank you COVID-19) I decided to really pursue this dream of mine to own a little bakery. Testing out different cupcake recipes, perfecting the finicky little French macarons, and creating a business model kept me busy! Since then, I have had the wonderful opportunity to be apart of so many celebrations and special moments! Starting Cupcakes N’ Cream LLC truly was the best decision! Read more>>