5 Lessons I've Learned Since I Started Working For Myself

Here we are, 1 year after I quit my job in corporate event planning. I scrolled through my archives and found a video of myself at my parent’s kitchen table with my computer and a small planner on this day last year. I didn’t know how to start, but I did. If you don't know my exact backstory, I recommend checking out I Quit My Corporate Job. Basically, I was working a full-time job and commuting 4 hours per day on top of a side hustle. I took the leap of faith and quit my corporate job last August to pursue Frozen Bananas full-time. I wanted to address 5 Lessons I've Learned Since I Started Working For Myself. This journey has been far from easy, but it's the most rewarding job. I couldn't be happier and more proud of where I am today.

Lesson 1: Know your worth

At the time I quit my job, I had done quite a few paid partnerships. I thought I completely understood how they worked. There was SO much more to know and understand.

First of all, you should be paid for content creation. It takes not only time to create photos, videos and captions, but it takes money. Brands that want to work with you may not always have your best interest. After all, this is a business. I have learned to have thicker skin. Some companies may be amazing to work with and others may put you down. Even if a company does not value your work, always remember your worth. This is a business for you just as much as this is a business for the brand.

Lesson 2: Read the contract

Be sure to read the contract when conducting business with a brand. There are two main items that are crucial to check for.

Number one is exclusivity. A company may explain that you have terms of exclusivity to their brand. For example, you cannot post about competitor brands for x amount of weeks or months. If this is the case, you would be forced to turn down potential business. You should be compensated accordingly.

Secondly, usage rights. If a brand wants to use your images, videos and content for their use, such as on their website or for paid advertising, you should be compensated accordingly. Influencers are a much cheaper way for brands to market their products. First off, a television ad, a subway ad or an ad on the side of the highway are hundreds of thousands of dollars. Plus, influencers have followers who trust them and will listen when an influencer is recommending a product. This is HUGE. There is no trust backed behind a random advertisement.

Lesson 3: "Measure your success based on how much fun you're having" - Gabby Bernstein

This job is unlike any other job. This isn't a 9-5. To be honest, I am pretty much always working, but most of the time, I don't even realize it because it doesn't feel like work! On top of the hours being drastically different compared to a "regular job," you will not receive the same paycheck every two weeks. You will make more money some months and less money other months.

When I get caught up with money, I remember my why. I remember why I started. Currently, my business is thriving and it has absolutely NOTHING to do with money. It has everything to do with the fact that I have built an incredible community. Through launching my website, I have discovered how many of you adore my recipes and truly support me. The amount I have grown my email list is incredible. The amount of comments/reviews of recipes on my website have been overwhelming. Success stems from passion and love for what you do. If you enjoy what you're doing and stay consistent, the money will come in time.

Lesson 4: People will judge

People will always judge you. Family or friends in your "real life" and also people on the internet. As long as you are doing what makes you happy, that's all that matters. You will never be happy making other people happy, so why not make yourself happy? Plus, it's IMPOSSIBLE to please everyone. It's not your job to!

Lesson 5: I owe it all to my followers

Thank YOU!

Everything seems so out of reach until you say YES to it. I quit my job and said YES to Frozen Bananas because I believed in myself, my brand and all that I could achieve and I DID. I was scared, but I knew in my heart if I didn’t say YES I could never reach my full potential. Through fear and challenges comes beauty and achievement. Say YES if you feel the urge in your heart. You will never be lead in the wrong direction.

I love you all and I honestly wouldn't be doing this if it wasn't for your support. I want to take this time to thank you. Thank you for liking my posts, commenting on my posts, making my recipes, tagging me, for encouraging me and for inspiring me each and every day. Let's continue on this journey together and remember... if you have the urge in your heart, go for it.