Ep 21 | 7 Mindset Shifts to Succeed as Beauty Entrepreneur

    Learn the strategies that helped me build a thriving beauty business and create a positive salon culture that both clients and stylists love.

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    I'm so excited to share some insights with you from my recent chat with Stefi Lane on the Magnetic Online Leaders podcast.

    We dove deep into my journey in the beauty industry, and I want to pass on some of the most valuable lessons I've learned about overcoming fear and self-doubt as an independent beauty pro.

    1. Own Your Messy Start


    Let me tell you, I was a hot mess when I started. Picture this: 18-year-old me in cosmetology school, thinking I could rock a full transformation haircut on day two. Spoiler alert: it was a disaster! But you know what? That's exactly where the magic begins.

    Action Step: Celebrate your early fumbles. They're not just mistakes; they're your origin story. Share them proudly – clients love knowing you're human too!

    2. Be the Rebel With a Cause


    I've always been that person asking "But why?" In fancy commission salons, I'd question everything. "Why make up vacation days when my book is empty?" This constant questioning led me to create bex+Co., where we flip the script on salon norms.

    Try This: Pick one thing in your routine this week and ask yourself, "Why do I do this?" Your next big idea might be hiding in the answer.

    3. Turn Financial Fears into Fuel


    When I launched bex+Co., my bank account was laughable – we're talking 500 bucks and a credit score that made lenders cringe. But here's the kicker: I sweet-talked my way into a lease for a huge commercial space. How? Pure, unadulterated audacity.

    Key Takeaway: Your current bank balance isn't your destiny. It's just a number. Your passion and persistence? That's your real currency.

    4. Reframe Your Flops


    Oh boy, do I have a story for you about failure. Picture this: January 2020, I'm all excited, opening a cycling studio. Talk about timing, right? Fast forward two years, and we're closing shop, a million dollars lighter. Ouch. But you know what? I now call that my "million-dollar master's degree in business."

    Mindset Shift: Next time something flops, ask yourself: "What's the golden lesson here?" Trust me, there's always at least one.

    5. Cultivate Your Vibe


    At bex+Co., we've built this incredible culture where everyone feels like a VIP partner. No catty comments, no cutthroat competition – just good vibes and mutual support. It's like a non-stop party where everyone's winning.

    Action Step: Be the vibe you want to attract. Compliment a fellow stylist's work, share a technique you love, or simply ask how someone's day is going. Watch how it transforms your workspace.

    6. Trust Your Gut Like It's Your BFF


    Throughout my journey, my gut feeling has been my secret weapon. Whether I'm scoping out a new salon location or making a big business move, that little voice inside rarely steers me wrong.

    Here's a perfect example: When I was considering opening our Georgetown location, everything on paper looked great. But something felt... off. I couldn't put my finger on it, but my gut was screaming "Not yet!" So, I waited. Six months later, the perfect spot opened up – better location, better terms, the works. Trusting that initial hesitation paid off big time.

    Practice This: Before making your next big decision, close your eyes and check in with yourself. What's your gut saying? It might be whispering some serious wisdom.

    7. Just Do It (Scared)


    If there's one thing I want tattooed on your brain after reading this, it's this: sometimes, you've just gotta do it scared. Whether you're thinking about going solo, raising your prices, or trying a crazy new hair technique – feel the fear and do it anyway.

    I remember the day I decided to open my first bex+Co. location. I was terrified. What if no one came? What if I failed spectacularly? But you know what was scarier? The thought of never trying at all. So, I took the leap. And yes, there were bumps and "oh crap" moments, but each one made me stronger, smarter, and more successful.

    Remember...

    That butterfly mosh pit in your stomach? It's not a warning sign. It's applause from your future self.

    You've got skills, you've got passion, and now you've got a whole community of beauty bosses (including yours truly) cheering you on. So what are you waiting for? Time to turn those dreams into a reality that's even better than you imagined.

    Want more tips and tricks for building your beauty empire? Check out my Beauty Empire Blueprint course, or come hang with me on Instagram @alsoknownasbex. Let's keep this conversation going!

    Until next time, stay gorgeous and gutsy!

    Written by

    Bex Irvine

    Hair-stylist turned serial entrepreneur, and self-made millionaire. Bex is here to help you become the badass beauty entrepreneur YOU WERE ALWAYS MEANT TO BE.

    Hey, there! I know the struggle of being stuck behind a salon chair, counting on every commission check that comes your way. But here's the good news: it's time to break through those fears and claim the freedom you deserve.

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