Ep 16 | How to Go Solo in the Beauty Industry (Even if You're Terrified)

Thinking about venturing out on your own in the beauty industry?

It's exciting, isn't it? The freedom, the flexibility, the chance to build something that's uniquely yours. But let's be real, it's also terrifying. You've got questions, doubts, maybe even a few nightmares about what could go wrong. Trust me, I've been there.

I remember when I first decided to take the leap and start my own beauty business. I was a nervous wreck. What if I failed? What if no one booked my services? What if I couldn't make ends meet? But I pushed through the fear, took the plunge, and haven't looked back since.

And I'm here to tell you, you can do it too.

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Face Your Fears Head-On

The first step to going solo is to acknowledge your fears. What's holding you back? Are you afraid of failure? Of the unknown? Of not being good enough? Write them down, get them out of your head and onto paper.

Once you know what you're up against, you can start to tackle those fears head-on. For example, if you're afraid of failure, remind yourself that everyone fails at some point. It's not the end of the world. It's a learning experience. If you're afraid of the unknown, do your research. Learn as much as you can about what it takes to run a successful beauty business. The more you know, the less scary it will seem.

Tips for Facing Your Fears:

• Make a client list: Write down all your clients, categorizing them by loyalty (A, B, and C clients).

• Evaluate your finances: Calculate how much you'd make if you kept 100% of your earnings.

• Assess your salon environment: If it's toxic, it might be time to leave.

Start Small and Build Your Way Up

You don't have to quit your day job and launch a full-fledged business overnight. Start small. Maybe offer your services to friends and family for a discounted rate to get some experience. Or start with a side hustle while you're still working your regular job. As you gain confidence and experience, you can gradually build your business until you're ready to go full-time.

Tips for Starting Small:

• Consider your time at your current salon: If you've been there for a year or more, you're likely in a good position to go solo.

• Don't overthink it: There's never a "perfect" time to start.

Find Your Tribe

One of the best things about going solo is that you're not alone. There are countless other beauty professionals who have taken the same leap and are happy to share their wisdom and support. Find your tribe, whether it's an online community, a local networking group, or a mentor who can guide you along the way.

Tips for Finding Your Tribe:

• Find a mentor: Seek guidance from someone who has successfully gone solo.

• Look for support systems: Many salon owners offer courses or resources to help you transition.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help

There's no shame in asking for help. Whether you need help with your business plan, marketing, or even just someone to vent to, reach out to your network for support. You'll be surprised how many people are willing to lend a helping hand.

Reach out to me on Instagram if you have any questions:
👉 https://www.instagram.com/alsoknownasbex/

Remember Your Why

When things get tough, and they will, remember why you started this journey in the first place. Was it to have more freedom? To pursue your passion? To make a difference in the lives of others? Keeping your why in mind will help you stay motivated and focused on your goals.

Going solo in the beauty industry is a challenging but rewarding journey. It takes courage, determination, and a whole lot of hustle. But with the right mindset and support system, you can achieve your dreams.

Key Takeaways:

1. Don't let fear hold you back: Acknowledge your fears and tackle them head-on.

2. Start small and build gradually: There's no need to rush. Take it one step at a time.

3. Find your community: Connect with other beauty professionals for support and guidance.

4. Ask for help when you need it: Don't be afraid to reach out to your network for assistance.

5. Remember your why: Keep your motivation strong by focusing on your goals.