The top three reasons we started our business
Some people may not know this but my Hubby and I have smashingly full and busy lives, filled with absolute joy. We work full time, raise kids, play music, spend time on country in the ocean as much as possible, spend time with our crew, support our community and care for our family.
Who's got time for all that AND starting another business? I do, that's who. For those looking at starting their own business I think it's essential to look at your why. Because as fun and inspiring as it is, it's a lot of bloody work when I like nothing better than kicking back with a brew, playing tunes and patting my pup to be fair.
My belief is that the very best businesses are those filled with joy. Those that are really just an extension of your soul. Our philosophy as a family is that we chase joy. We do nothing that doesn't spark our internal flame and that's what keeps us motivated.
Here's my top three (and a little extra kick thrown in for good measure) reasons why we started Sunshine & Pineapples.
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Creating is a need not a want
I have a little thing called ADHD and because of this well...idle hands, devils work..mischief made. Creating is something that flows from me when I am 'positively' busy. It keeps my brain focused and stimulated.
I've always 'created' prolifically meaning there was often a lot of half finished or finished projects around my house with no home. That's just sad.
I started selling my work, more as a way to honour them than make any real money. To give them a home where they might be loved and featured rather than sitting in a dusty corner.
My business evolved as a way to keep my creatively focused and flowing and useful! I love the process of turning my art into homewares and clothing that people can afford to buy. And it's true, money comes when you give your heart unconditionally. It builds organically over time as long as you have a plan and stay passionate through the ups and downs.
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It's how I use my voice purposefully
Sounds Like a You Problem Tee - Sass Queen Collection
If I love you I'm a chatterbox but if not, I'm pretty quiet particularly about my beliefs and values. There are however, some things that I'm really passionate about. These include protecting and supporting woman, and supporting gender fluidity and inclusion.
These are hard topics to get out to the general population at times but when I listened to the gorgeous woman in my life I realise we were equal parts funny, sassy, and clever. This seemed to resonate for people and so generating conversation become one of our biggest why's in business.
It gave me a voice but also made me consider my voice and the foundation of my views with more scrutiny. I became clearer, more articulate and educated about the topics that really mattered to me as a result of including a social conscience in my business.
It also felt...well right. I'd look at other businesses but they just didn't feel good in my soul and that's a big test for me. I enjoy selling things that I create myself, with my own hands, and with the message that I believe is 'of service'. That makes it easy for me to keep going and stay motivated when the nights are long.
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I couldn't find it so I made it
Don't get me wrong. There are many, many beautiful creations in the world and I covert quite a few but there was some particular items that I just couldn't find anywhere else.
Designs that resonated with my sense of home and country, in colours that felt like there were of the earth. Tee's that were funny, cheeky and said the types of things my girls relayed on the reg. A little bit rock 'n ' roll and a little bit salty sailor without pandering to the dominant male gaze.
It's so true that your creations, if they comes from the heart, are unique to you and it's likely there is no one else doing it quite like you. That's the magic formula to creating a business model that is sustainable and marketable.
Bonus Round...My most important why
When I look into my beautiful kids face I remember every single why and it makes all of the long nights worth it.
I want to create a world for them to be free from discrimination and violence. Free to create in any way they choose.
I want them to experience every inch of life and reach for every goal that filled that little imagination.
I want them to see a Mumma that takes risks, puts herself out there and chases dreams. It's all possible baby. Find your why and give it a try.
