Recently, I was asked to contribute to the local Style Magazine. I thought it was only fitting to share my article here too. If you want to have a look at the entire magazine head to https://issuu.com/armcustompublishing/docs/style_march_2024_complete_v4 But first, have a read about my top 3 lessons I've learnt in my first 3 years of business... As a young female business owner, wife, mother and advocate for our community – just to name a few hats I sport in life, I’ve learnt a lot of things in business in the past three years of starting my own digital marketing agency. Here’s three of the most valuable and timeless lessons I’ve learnt, and of course they’re inspired by a fashion orientated theme, because it only felt fitting ... OK, I’ll stop with the fashion puns (maybe?). 1. People want the real deal No knock-offs allowed. All fads are fleeting but authenticity can’t be replicated or knocked-off by a sweatshop for a fraction of the price. The runway is only for GEN-U-INE, real deal pieces – get that Fucci out of here. Authenticity is key: develop it and protect it. Let your brand be authentic, and the same applies to you as a person. Be authentic; those who value “realness” will be attracted to you and the fake fur lovers will move on – this isn’t a bad thing. Knowing who you are as a person and who your business is as a brand is paramount! Don’t know what’s authentic to your brand? Our team can help with finding your brand personality. 2. Strut your stuff When you see a model strutting their stuff down the runway, they really are workin’ it. One thing I’ve noticed is they walk with intention. Instead of a New Year’s resolution, I choose a word to focus my year, and fittingly, my word for 2024 is “intentional”, because I want to be more intentional with every step I take. Intentional doesn’t mean to have to tiptoe or walk slowly. Have you seen those catwalk models? They’ve got a good, strong, consistent stride. Step by step, intentional decision after intentional decision, you can walk the catwalk of business with unequivocal direction in your stride. Have conviction in your decisions and go for it! Side thought: this also means don’t get caught up looking at what others are doing or wearing (although interesting! Who doesn’t love people watching?!). In this case, watch your own intentional steps and strut in your own lane (aka run your own race) – this will mean you avoid bumping into others, causing a scene and ultimate runway embarrassment. No one wants that! 3. Trends come & go As true as the seasons change, trends follow the same ebb and flow. But seriously, things don’t last long, so stay agile in biz, jump on a trend (if it feels right for your brand) and surf the waves that these trends bring. Being grounded in your business values and operating by strategy will anchor your brand through the different waves that your business rides... (cough) we can help with that. Many years ago my mum reminded me that “this too shall pass”. It’s an oldie but a goodie (the saying that is ...). If something in this season of your business or, furthermore, life, isn’t quite going to plan then remember that saying. If something in this season is going incredibly well (happy dancing for you!) remember that saying and embrace every good feeling and outcome that is oozing from it. You deserve to celebrate the good and the bad – it’s all learning at the end of the day. No fashion victims, just enthusiasts willing to take a risk. My hope is that these few thoughts resonate with you, and if you need some creative assistance with developing your brand and getting a strategy in place, we are here; you know where to find us, we’re creative and ready.