Very Short Interview, Part 2

My impression of that initial interview is that it is still useful to me even now. My favorite quote from my first interview with my entrepreneur is as follows, “Given the unknowns, the worries, the ups and downs, the long hours, having to be jack of all trades and everything else that comes with building my own business, I could never trade it for a 9 to 5.  For me, that would mean settling and I don’t think an entrepreneurial spirit ever settles.” I thought this first interview was something I could look back on throughout the semester and it was definitely helpful.

On your journey to becoming an entrepreneur, was there ever a time you felt like giving up?

I often felt/feel like giving up but I just don't.  I mostly get the urge to throw in the towel when money worries consume my thoughts.  Small, independent business owners almost always have the stress of wondering will the money come in to pay the next bill or to pay the employees to which their business wouldn't run without.  These worries can consume your every thought.  To get me through the tough times I always try to reflect back on times when my worries were equally as strong but the light shone through.  We shouldn't borrow tomorrow's worries today.

What kept you motivated to push through, even when times may have got tough.

I always like a challenge and having your own business is certainly a challenge.  I was defeated in business once because I was young and naive and someone came in and offered a better deal than I could, ultimately leaving me with no business.  I quit once because I couldn't see any light and in retail once you are behind it’s so hard to turn things around.  I wasn't willing to sacrifice any more loss and was a smart business decision even though it was difficult.  What keeps me going now is that I love what I do and I know that if I give up I will have to work for someone else and I enjoy being my own boss too much.

Looking back at all of your experiences, what was your favorite moment in regards to being an entrepreneur? 

My favorite moment(s) is when someone says how much they love my products.  That to me validates what I do.  Every time I hear this I know I am doing what I'm suppose to be doing.  There are many moments that are rewarding and unforgettable but knowing someone loves what I do and what I do brings them happiness by far stands out as one of my best moments.

Looking at this interview, I definitely think I have grown as an entrepreneur and a person throughout this class. When I first interviewed my entrepreneur I felt like I was asking a celebrity some questions but with the second interview I almost felt like an apprentice.