From Full-Time Job to Etsy Success: My Inspirational Journey

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Leaving My Full-Time Job
   • Unhappiness in my previous job
   • Discovering my passion for crafting
   • Taking care of my grandpa
3. Starting My Own Business
   • Overcoming fear and uncertainty
   • Researching how to start a business
   • Registering with state taxes and getting an LLC
4. Initial Challenges and Expansion
   • Selling locally and on Facebook
   • Discovering Etsy and its potential
   • Incorporating the Silhouette Cameo
5. Growth and Success
   • Testing the market and receiving positive feedback
   • Making more on Etsy than in my previous job
   • Transitioning from embroidery to vinyl decals
6. Following Your Dreams
   • Importance of following your passion
   • Benefits and challenges of running your own business
   • The reward of spending time with loved ones while working from home
7. Conclusion

Leaving My Full-Time Job and Starting My Own Business

As an introduction, I would like to share my journey of leaving my full-time job to start my own business online. Back in late 2015, I found myself in a job that I didn't love, feeling underpaid for the amount of work I put in. I knew I deserved better, but I was unsure of what direction to take in my life. With a degree in administrative office work, I knew I wanted to work with people, but I lacked a clear vision. However, I had always been crafty and enjoyed making things. When my daughter was born in 2011, I discovered my love for creating appliquéd shirts and personalized gifts for friends and family. While I would occasionally sell items to acquaintances and participate in local craft events, I was too afraid to take the leap into starting a business. Nonetheless, I held onto the dream of one day having my own business, but I didn't know how to make it a reality.

Starting My Own Business

The turning point came when my grandpa, who had Alzheimer's, needed day-time care and my parents sought assistance. It was at this moment that something inside me clicked. I realized it was the perfect time to begin my entrepreneurial journey. I was unhappy in my current job, missing out on precious moments with my daughter who spent most of her day at preschool. So, with the support of my family, I made the courage, yet terrifying decision to resign from my job. I had nothing to lose since I was already miserable.

During the two-week notice period, I immersed myself in researching how to start a business and understand the legalities involved. I registered my business as an LLC and took care of the necessary tax obligations. Simultaneously, I began reaching out to friends and family, informing them of my plans to start a business. The response was overwhelmingly positive, which boosted my confidence. Although I was nervous, as soon as my notice period ended, I dove headfirst into my business venture.

Initially, I focused on spending my mornings with my grandfather, caring for him, and keeping him company. In the afternoons, I would pick up my daughter from preschool and transition into work mode as soon as I got home. At that time, I primarily sold appliquéd items and some handmade products through local connections and Facebook. While this was a good start, I knew I needed to expand beyond these limited platforms to truly grow my business.

It was during this period that I stumbled upon Etsy, an online marketplace for handmade and vintage items. Initially, I was intimidated by the talented sellers and established shops I encountered on the platform. However, I decided to give it a shot, recognizing that I had nothing to lose. I created my Etsy shop and started with a modest inventory of five items. These included personalized tumblers and monogram decals. Although shipping logistics initially overwhelmed me, I soon received my first sale after just a few days. It was an incredibly exciting and validating experience, pushing me to perfect every detail of the customer's order. Soon after, more sales followed, and I began to realize that my dream of running a successful business was becoming a reality.

Growth and Success

Over time, my Etsy shop flourished, and it surpassed my previous job's income within a year. This major milestone served as a powerful motivational boost, cementing my determination to keep pushing forward. However, with the growth of my business, I found myself gradually shifting away from embroidery and appliqué work. Instead, I fell in love with the versatility of the Silhouette Cameo, a vinyl cutter that allowed me to create intricate stencils, vinyl decals, and various other crafts. I expanded my product offerings and adapted to the market's demand, embracing the possibilities that the Silhouette Cameo offered.

Following Your Dreams

I believe my story illustrates the importance of following your dreams and pursuing your passion. If I hadn't taken the leap of faith, I might still be stuck in a job I hated. The journey of starting my own business was not easy. There were hurdles, challenging customers, and the inevitable ups and downs that every entrepreneur faces. However, the love I have for my craft kept propelling me forward. Every obstacle became a learning experience, fueling personal and professional growth.

Running your own business requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt. It may be overwhelming and chaotic at times, but the rewards are immeasurable. Personally, I am now able to spend quality time with my two daughters while working from the comfort of my home. While it can get hectic juggling family and business responsibilities, the freedom and fulfillment I experience make it all worthwhile.