Some Thoughts About Self Employment

I had a great meeting with some other Vermont Specialty food producers yesterday.  Seems we're all in similar boats with similar passions...and similar challenges. 

I've recently felt the power that I create when I ask for and pay for help in all the little tasks involved in running a business.  I used to think that if I didn't do it myself, it wouldn't be done right or that I couldn't afford to hire help.  That's the kind of thinking that keeps small businesses small.  There are times you just have to take a deep breath and hand over tasks and recognize that they might not be done the way you do them.  The beauty in this is that you also learn that if you've attracted people you trust and admire into your circle, the tasks may be performed in new and more creative ways than you might have ever imagined alone!  The point is: there comes a time when you (I mean ME here) must check your (MY) ego at the door if you (I) are to grow and allow others to share their knowledge and willingness to help.   My business and my ego are at that point. 

It was refreshing and reassuring to learn yesterday that my story as a small specialty food biz is not at all unique.  So many of us just throw in the towel because it becomes so challenging to produce and deliver product, work full time at jobs outside our businesses, find production space, grow without going into debt.  So, I actually felt pretty darn proud of myself that I've been doing this for 10 years and have not thrown up my hands and given up.  Believe me, the thought, "Why the heck am I doing this?" has crossed my mind many times.  Why the heck am I doing this?  Simple: financial self reliance based on work that meets my need to fully and freely express my creativity coupled with an intense distrust and ennui around corporate employment. 

It has become apparent after yesterday's meeting that there have got to be more ways that we small Vermont specialty food companies can support one another.  Some thoughts are brewing in my early morning brain about what that means for me in terms of what I can contribute and how I can turn my experience and talents into a full time profession. 

But that's going to have to wait until after the holidays.  Right now, I'm elbow deep in butter and loving it. 

Ann Zuccardy

Vermont Shortbread Company President, (aka The Butter Babe)

Comments

[Cynthia McKenna LPC, NCC]

Ann,
I really resonate with this post. I hired an assistant for about 10 hours of work last month. It was very difficult for me to say, "I can't get all this work done." and then to ask for help.

The cool thing is that the friend I hired is very competent, organized, and fast. She accomplished so much in a very short time - and it taught me that it is okay, and frankly desirable, to hire out some of my paperwork, handout development, etc.

I am so proud of the way you network. You are always reaching out into your community to find connections and help both the small business world and other solopreneurs.

You are an inspiration.
Cynthia