Starting a business of your own is always a risky venture. There are many people that will try and hold you back, but only if you let them. This business I started a year ago has been a blessing for sure. I always wanted it to be a full time gig, but ... I was a teacher when I originally started my business. My time was very divided. I felt I needed to spread my wings a little more and decided that being a stager was what I wanted to do. So in December I hung up my apple and red pens and plunged into the Staging business full time. Working in today's market and economic climate is risky for sure. I gave up a paying job to try something out that may or may not pay off. There are people that are trying to hold me back, but I won't let them. I now have the time to devote to areas of my business that I didn't before. The thought that thrills me the most is that I get to go after the markets where I really believe I can make a big difference. Getting homes ready for sale is an awesome part of my business. Helping someone to transform their living space into a place that other people feel welcomed enough to want to stay permanently is a gift. I love hearing "I don't want to sell my house anymore. I want to stay." It is music to my ears. That means that I have done a good job for people who needed a nudge in the right direction. One area that I am particularly excited about pursuing is Staging for Seniors. I teamed up today with an amazing group of business owners that provide services for seniors. We will get together and provide informational seminars about the services we provide and how the senior and their care givers may benefit. Anyone who has ever tried to move an elderly parent or family member can tell you how difficult that can be. One of the services that Staged SO Right will offer is getting that home ready for sale. That means someone else will help the parent or caregiver sort through the 30 - 40 years worth of accumulations and whittle it down to what is needed and what provides the most comfort. Providing focus during a typically emotional and chaotic time is awesome. What an wonderful gift to provide people. I could never have pursued the senior staging if I wasn't in this business full time. This type of Staging is very time intensive. Trying to pack up years of living in one place takes time and patience. This couldn't be done from 3 - 6pm and weekends. I am grateful for the opportunity to walk down this path. As I spread my wings and continue to grow my business, I'll use this forum as a log to see what works and what doesn't. I have already learned so much, but know that I have many miles to travel. I welcome any wisdom that you would like to share.