Turning Hobbies Into A Successful Business

Turning Hobbies Into A Successful Business

by | Friends Sharing

Start with the Basics

Turning a hobby into a business can be an exciting and rewarding venture. However, it requires
careful planning, research, and dedication. This guide shared by KennethWeene.com provides
tips on what it takes to turn a hobby into a business, focusing on assessing the financial viability
of your hobby, understanding market demand, and enhancing your business skills through
education, and gaining a deep understanding of your target audience.

Assessing Financial Viability

The first step in turning your hobby into a business is to conduct a thorough financial analysis to
assess its viability. This involves determining the costs of starting and running the business,
forecasting potential revenue, and evaluating the profitability of your venture. Start by listing all
possible expenses, including raw materials, equipment, business registration fees, marketing,
and more. Then, estimate the potential income from selling your product or service.

After you’ve determined your projected expenses and income, compare the two. If your
projected income significantly exceeds your expenses, your hobby has the potential to be a
profitable business. However, if the costs are too high, you may need to rethink your pricing
strategy, find ways to reduce costs, or reconsider if this hobby is suitable for business.

Is Your Product or Service in Demand?

No business can succeed without a market for its product or service. Hence, it’s crucial to
research the market demand before investing time and money into your venture. Start by
identifying your direct and indirect competitors. Look at their offerings, pricing strategies, and
how they market their products or services.

Next, conduct surveys or focus groups to get a better understanding of potential customers;
needs and preferences. You can also use online tools and databases to gain insights into
market trends and consumer behavior. Remember, having a unique product or service does;t
guarantee success; it must also meet a need or solve a problem that a significant number of
people have.

Education Upgrade

Running a business involves more than just creating a product or service. It requires knowledge
in areas such as management, finance, marketing, and more. In the journey of turning your
hobby into a thriving business, you may consider this important step: pursuing a business
degree for enhanced skills. This educational upgrade can equip you with vital knowledge and
practical skills needed in running a business, such as financial management, marketing
strategies, and operational planning. From understanding how to analyze market trends to
learning the art of negotiation, a business degree can offer a comprehensive view of the
business world. Whether it’s a full-time degree or part-time courses, this investment in your
education could prove invaluable in navigating the complexities of business and leading your
venture toward success.

Mastering Target Market Insights

Understanding your target audience is key to the success of your business. It helps you tailor
your product or service to their needs, craft effective marketing messages, and make informed
business decisions. Start by defining your ideal customer, considering factors like age, gender,
location, interests, income level, and more.

Then, conduct market research to gather more information about your target audience. Use
surveys, interviews, or social media analytics to understand their preferences, buying habits,
and pain points. The more you know about your target audience, the better you can serve them
and ensure the success of your business.

In conclusion, turning a hobby into a business involves careful planning and research. By
assessing the financial viability of your hobby, understanding the market demand, enhancing
your business skills through education, and gaining a deep understanding of your target
audience, you can increase your chances of success and turn your passion into a profitable
venture.

Submitted by Claire Wentz

Is It Time to Move Near Your Senior Loved Ones?

Is It Time to Move Near Your Senior Loved Ones?

by | Friends Sharing

A major issue for seniors is whether they have enough willing and competent caregivers. Often, their caregivers are family members. This means how near you are to a loved one’s residence is important — especially if your loved one has age- or health-related mobility problems. Seniors with restricted mobility may require aid in accessing their house, and those with health difficulties may need support managing medications at home. Read on for some tips on identifying when and how to move closer to a senior loved one.

Choosing Whether to Rent or Buy When Relocating

If your loved one is struggling with daily tasks, you may need to relocate nearby as soon as possible. Renting can be a great option, particularly if you’re on a tight budget. Explore local listings to learn about rental costs and amenities offered.

On the other hand, renting may not be right for everyone. Buying may be more affordable over the long term, and it gives you more flexibility in deciding what kind of home you want and where you want to live. It can also give you more control over how much you spend.

When outfitting your new home, you’ll want to save money by being judicious in your home goods purchases. It’s a good idea to read unbiased reviews online to find out which products are best. You’ll save money by not wasting it on inferior products.

Relocating Your Business to a New Location

If you’re a business owner, you may need to move your business as well — especially if you work from home. You’ll not only need to take your equipment with you but also ensure all of your operations relocate smoothly. Check regulations for business in your new state and give your employees plenty of notice so they can prepare. If you aren’t already using online tools such as invoice generators and project management platforms, transition now as you’ll be able to run your business from any location.

Temporarily Storing Your Items When Moving

Moving may also mean storing belongings until you determine what to do with them. Fortunately, storage centers can provide a safe place to store items that you don’t want to risk losing. They are great for storing things that you may need to access quickly but don’t have room for, such as extra blankets and other household items.

It’s also a good idea to invest in a rental storage unit that you can use while you figure out your next move. Not only will this save you money, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your belongings are well protected.

Relocating Smoothly to Help Your Senior Loved One

When moving to be close to a senior loved one, you’ll want to think through renting or buying a place, relocating your business, and storing your items ahead of time.

Submitted by Claire Wentz

Top Tips for Starting a Senior Caregiving Support Business

Top Tips for Starting a Senior Caregiving Support Business

by | Friends Sharing

Starting a new business that provides support or services to family senior caregivers can be a profitable endeavor. However, there are a few things you need to do to get going on the right foot. Ken invited his friend Claire Wentz to share her top tips for ensuring success. Claire’s Website is https://caringfromafar.com

Choose the Right Services

When starting a senior caregiving business, you must choose the right services to offer. Some possibilities include home care, transportation, and meal preparation. Decide what services you want to offer based on your skill set and the needs of your target market.

Decide Which Business Structure Is Right for You

You can choose from a few different business structures when starting a senior caregiving business. These include sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies, and corporations. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, so you must decide which one is right for your needs.

Forming an LLC can be a good option as it offers pass-through taxation and tax savings. Generally, you’ll need an attorney to help you file the paperwork, but you can also file yourself or use an online formation service to save time and money. Rules for establishing an LLC vary by state, so research the regulations on how to start an LLC in Arizona to do it right.

Have an Invoicing Process in Place

One of the most important things you need to do when starting a senior caregiving business is to implement an invoicing process. This helps ensure you get paid quickly and on time. An invoice generator app or software allows you to choose from premade templates to create customized invoices that include your company’s text, images, and business logo. Look for an invoice generator that’s easy to use, permits you to download the invoice in the format you prefer, and offers a free trial, so you can try it out before committing to a paid subscription.

Get Your First Clients

Once your Port Charlotte business is up and running, start marketing to get your first clients. Consider creating a website, starting a blog, and using social media to help attract clients. You can also attend local events and meetups to network with potential clients. Southern New Hampshire University suggests having an elevator pitch ready, so you can quickly and effectively explain what your business does and why someone should use your services.

Keep Your Clients Happy

Finally, once you start getting clients, keeping them happy is essential. Daily Caring notes that this means providing quality services, being responsive to their needs, and going above and beyond to exceed their expectations. If you can do this, you’ll have clients who use your services repeatedly, which is essential for any successful business.

Open Your Senior Caregiver Support Business

Starting a small business that provides support or services to senior caregivers can be lucrative, but there are a few things you must do to get off on the right foot, such as determining which services to offer and the most appropriate business structure. The tips outlined above can help you get started.

Image via Pexels

A Gesture of Love

A Gesture of Love

by | Friends Sharing

I hear the tree branches hitting what sits above me and the howls of wind outside the house.  I rush to mom and sit at her side. She strokes my face and tells me it is okay; not to be afraid and it is only wind.  Yet, I am fearful. Even when she kisses me on top of my head, I can’t keep my fear at bay. She leaves the room and I am alone.

What’s that noise? I think it is coming from the kitchen, so I move and peek from the office door and watch. Is mom upset? Because she is forcing Joey into a cage. Why would she do this? He is howling and fighting to get free. A patch of his hair falls to the floor. He looks horrified and keeps screaming as mom latches the door shut.  I don’t understand.  She would never harm us.

Next, I see her pick up CharLee and stuff her inside another large cage. CharLee holds the door open and is screeching. She scratches mom with her long nails. I see the blood begin to form around moms’ wound. Yet, this does not stop her. She pushes CharLee back inside and again slams the door shut and locks the latch Though CharLee is screaming, mom ignores her pleas and I watch as she runs from room to room, bringing with her bits of clothing and personal items. I watch as she stuffs them in a plastic bag.

Her gaze turns to me. There is panic in her face, so I back up as she approaches. I hear her say, “Come here, little guy. Mommy loves you; I won’t hurt you. Come here, sweetie.” Well, I’ve heard those words before, and they mean only one thing – something I shall surely detest is about to happen.

The dogs, Harry and Rooney rush to her which averts her attention from me. I take this chance to hide in the closet and pick a spot I can still peer out to see what is going on but be safe from getting discovered. I watch mom attach a leash to both dog’s collar. Guess it is ‘potty time’ Yet, she tells them to stay and she’ll be right back. I cannot see her now

She is calling for me, but I stay silent. Something is going on and I do not want to be a part of any of it. I hear scuffling and then the slam of the front door. I slip into the secret hiding place within the wall. She’ll never find me here.

You see, I know mom is growing old.  She already must carry two animals and pull the two dogs, on foot. I know dad takes the car each day, so I wonder why she must do this now.

As if to answer my question, she shouts out, ‘Mommy has to go, sweetie. They are evacuating us. Fire is heading our way. Please, honey, please come to mama”

Fire. I’ve seen pictures of it on TV and I did burn myself by touching the hot burner on the stove-top. Mom told me to be careful; that I could catch the house on fire. So, I know fire is not a good thing.

After two more attempts to get me to come with her, I hear footsteps leaving the room. I am so afraid.  If only mom knew how much I want to leap into the safety of her arms and be carried away.  If only there was a means to tell her how much I love her. I love her so much that I must be brave and strong this time. I must remain hidden until she leaves.

The wind is howling through the rooftop and I hear mom talking to someone outside. I can’t make out what she is saying. Maybe I should run to her right now and tell her she is right; that I am weak and cowardly. Dad and mom are always saying I don’t have to be afraid, but everything scares me. Well, this is my time to prove them wrong.

I run to the window and peer out. Mom is gone as well as the animals. It is getting dark now. The last thing I heard mom say to me was she loves me. The room is filled with something I’ve never seen before. It is thickening the air and it is grayish-black in color. It smells funny. I hear crackling above me.

Look, mom, I am not afraid anymore. I am brave and strong as you asked of me each day. I hold your last words of love within my heart as I fall into a deep sleep from the smoke-filled room.

⁕⁕⁕

It has been a couple of weeks since I last saw my family and my mom.  I keep hearing her calling my name and directing me to where she and dad are now living. The force of their love is drawing me toward them. But I can’t get through into their dimension. I am now floating through space and time and find myself on a farm. I see dad drive up and when he opens the car door, I jump into his arms.

Dad cuddles me and holds me close to his heart and rushes to open the milk barn door and bring me to my mom. She squeals with delight and grabs me from dad’s arms and puts me on the bed. She strokes my hair and kisses my head. It feels so good to be home. I sit in her lap and purr and purr and purr.

⁕⁕⁕

The woman awakes to the sound of the cell phone’s alarm. She sobs and wails in disappointment. No! How could it be a dream? She’d held him in her arms. She’d petted his coat. She felt him just as if he was in the room with her.

She rushes to her husbands’ arms and tells him of Stubby cat’s visit; how real it was; how she smelled him and touched him. How his body was alive and warm and how it all crashed to pieces when the alarm brought about reality. Yes, he was gone. In her heart and soul, she knew this and as she lay down on the bed, tears of grief, blame and love poured forth.

⁕⁕⁕

I watch mom cry and wish I could be with her again. Dad is at her side trying his best to fight back his own tears. If I could tell them one thing, it would be how I chose to sacrifice my own well being to ensure the rest of my family made it to safety. More than anything, I want mom and dad to know, when faced with such danger, my love for them meant more than my own life. For I saw that mom could never carry my big orange kitty body, along with all the other animals, to safety Yes, I was no longer fearful. But proud I had shown I was no longer the Scardy Cat mom had saved from being euthanized so many years ago. I am brave and strong and will watch over my family, in spirit, for as long as they live.

And, I purr loudly.

 

Monica Brinkman,

Host, It Matters Radio
Another Life

Another Life

by | Friends Sharing

Another Life

By C. Stene Duckworth

​In another life, Chris saw himself running with the buffalo.  His moccasin covered feet kicked up the dry dirt of the rain-starved land, tracing the ancient path of the herds that use to roam here.  While the smell of sweet-grass and sage flooded his nostrils as he crested the small hill before reaching the plains that spread out before him.

The last five miles had been the hardest for Chris, but now he could no longer feel the aches and pains of his body, or the straining of his muscles taunt against his skin.  Perspiration fell in beaded rivulets from his face and down his chest; releasing the impurities through his skin.  Spirit, mind, and body were becoming one a process that had begun in the ‘Inipi,’ceremonial sweat-house. 

He finally stopped to rest at the base of Shining Rock leaning over to rest his hands on his knees while his lungs sucked in the chilly air between clenched teeth.  The Sun’s rays had not yet touched the pointed Rocks that loomed before him.  He wanted to be in place before the first fingers of light touched the rocky peaks.  He wanted to watch the Father caress Mother Earth’s body with the warm breath of early summer. 

“Mother yearns for the touch of Father on her body,” He heard his Grandfather sing.

Climbing up as far as he could he sat between two rocks hoping to warm himself from the lingering night chill clinging to his damp skin.  He had chosen this place because it reminded him of his Grandfather he had begun his vision quest here when he was just a boy.  They had come here when Chris was just fifteen to watch the sheep. 

Grandfather told him about the old ways.  He sighed, that was before the ways of the world began to entice him away from his people and the land.  Chris only barely listened to what Grandfather had told him that day because he was in a hurry to meet his friends and see what new treasures they had brought back from town.  A bottle of wine maybe some cigarettes, or a little weed.

“There is no going back!” he heard his Grandfather whisper on the wind.

He had wasted many years in the world, but now this would be the beginning of his quest, his purpose, the meaning of his life, and the journey to self-discovery.  His time in prison had taken that away from him, instead of a name they gave him a number, instead of plains to run across there were bricks to wash.  No that is not true, he said to himself.  I went willingly, I gave it away. 

He grabbed the beaded leather pouch tied to his belt, fingering the blue design that reminded him of her.  It made him smile thinking about the time she spent sewing the designs on the bag so full of love and kindness.  He closed his eyes to draw on the memory of their last meeting when he had stood behind her mother’s house and sung the words of love four times.

Chris smiled and wondered.  What would she say to him now?  Too much time had gone by and he had been ashamed of all he had said and done when he left this precious world and sold his soul to the cities that surrounded the reservation.  What were his last words to her?  He did not remember.  The song meant nothing now.

The bread still warm from his mother’s stove.  Honey smeared on top and the smell of wild clover enticed him making his mouth water in anticipation.  He bit into the crispy flour and chewed slowly, savoring each morsel as he swallowed, feeling it slide down his throat.  Taking a drink of water only after the taste had long disappeared. 

Chris exhaled noisily and leaned back against the rock while wishing all his days were like this one.  The kind you didn’t appreciate when you are young.  Looking out over the plains below he watched the high grass sway in the wind as first light touched the long blades making them look golden.  

​

For a moment, he felt his resolve begin to falter.  Why was he doing this now?  It wouldn’t bring her back.  He and Grandfather would never fish again together and he would probably not win the trust of his family.  Stop, he chided himself, there were no deals to make anymore he had let his dreams fall through the torn hole in the web of his boyhood Dream Catcher. 

​

He heard his Grandfather say, “Look to your future!”

​

He leaned back and smiled to himself.  I can’t give up now, he thought.  No more will I sell myself, or try to serve the ways of two worlds.  I will choose what is right and walk the path of honor.

​

He took out the willow twigs, beads, and deer sinews laying them in front of him on the ground.  Then he began to weave the string of his new Dream Catcher through the twigs while he waited for his vision quest to appear showing him the way to another life.

…Good dreams slip through the web and into the sleeper during the night…bad dreams become caught in the web and are perished by morning light.