My story:  In April, 2008 I gave birth to my third and last child. Two weeks later I was told I didn't have a job to come back to. Seeing as how I worked as an accountant I didn't think finding work would be as difficult as other professions since, after all, every business has accounting, right? WRONG. The downpour of the economy had only just begun. There were medical bills, diapers, formula, clothing...typical expenses that come with a new baby, but still no job. I filed for unemployment, which ran out. What were we going to do? My next thought: "My business...just DO it!"

My background:  I've always excelled in mathematics and enjoy working with numbers. At 23, I started working as an Administrator for a small company; typical job functions were office mgmt, payroll, bkpg. My experience grew. I eventually found myself working as an accountant with accounting firms, though not a CPA. (I never finished my degree.) ...Then the bubble burst.  

My endeavor:  After almost a year with no income, as well as being pushed by my friends and family who know my abilities, I decided to take the plunged and start my own bookkeeping/payroll business. Scary, yeah I know - especially when you're broke!

My launch:  Since having no degree, but 10 years experience, I've recently decided to become Certified & Licensed. I had to take the full cost from our tax return (...ohh that tax return!!)  With a limited budget left and the help of coupons/promotions I was able to create products such as flyers, business cards, signs and a running website. I’ve also learned newspapers occasionally have unfilled space just before printing which is sold at a discounted rate (…there's marketing/advertising!!)  I even received other startup tools, such as accounting programs and association membership fees, as birthday gifts from family and friends. A little elbow grease with internet research, tracking on foot, attending every local event with business cards in hand and I'm set. Whew!!

My business:  I perform outsourced bookkeeping and payroll services at incredibly low rates to small businesses. In our current economy, someone has to help the small business owner. (Since I work out of my home, I don't have the same overhead expenses as other companies.)

My result:  I'm independent again. I'm doing what I enjoy. I have my own business - all while helping economy-suffering companies the only way I can as their cost-cutting measure.

I feel like I've hit two birds with one stone!

• Never give up on your ambitions. Not only can they have a positive impact on your life, but possibly others as well. 
• Be creative; sometimes you have to think outside the box for efficiency, but don't be afraid to do so! 
• Set your goals day-to-day and follow through.
• Build a solid foundation of trust and integrity with your customers.
• Stick with it.
• Don't bite off more than you can chew, and remember... 

Dreams won't come true unless you set out to capture them!!