I am very excited about sharing this story on the blog! This is the first 'real life' story that I'm sharing and really, that is the whole reason for the blog. Another reason that I'm so excited about this story is that I watched it unfold personally as Lenny is my mother. My mom's so talented at making things - sewing, woodwork, pewter work, candles, baking, chocolates etc! She was a (very unhappy) salary administrator when she developed an interest in herbal remedies, crystals and the esoteric about 15 years ago. I watched her transform as she made her passion transition from her hobby to full time job. She has had her challenges, especially in the beginning, BUT she has never been happier or more fulfilled and she helps so many people in the process (she is well respected in the South African esoteric community). I'm so proud of her for following her passion, she has been an inspiration to me and I hope her story inspires you too.
What do you do and why do you love it?
I own an esoteric shop and make many things for it myself. I employ 5 people to help in the shop.
Did you always just know what you wanted to do?
No, I have been an analytical chemist, a pharmacy assistant, a mom, a Guider, member of many committees, an assistant accountant and a salary administrator.
What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
My biggest challenge was the fear of rejection. I was afraid that people wouldn't like the products that I make and that no one would buy them. My daughter assured me that my products were good and that many people were not able to make their own or they didn't have the time or inclination and would be glad to buy it from me. So, to test the waters, I tried selling my products on consignment in a gift shop and it sold!
Did you give up your day job to follow your passion? When did you know the time was right?
Yikes, I kept getting ‘called’. I would think of it all day and make things in the in my spare time. I had several ‘readings’ by psychics and readers. They all had the same answer. “Do it”, the universe is waiting. *Gulp*, could I give up my executive salary? Finally my husband said “Do it!” So I resigned. That day my husband received a pay increase equal to my salary! So it was confirmed!
What are you hoping to achieve in the future?
I hope to increase sales even more and this year to focus on new skills, like playing with my Dremel [rotary tool] more! I don’t think I will ever retire and sit on the porch, so even if I sell this business I will continue to make stuff.
What do you love most about living your passion?
I really like being my own boss, although at first it took a lot of discipline to work efficiently with the time factors
What would you advise someone who doesn't know what their passion is?
Sit down and write down all the things you are good at. And think what makes you happy. Meditate on this. Google stuff, are you happy growing plants? Or knitting or helping others. Consider what you do in your free time right now.
Do you have any tips for people who share a passion for herbology and the esoteric and want to make it their living?
Learn your subject, Learn your subject, Learn your subject! There is nothing worse than going into a shop and dealing with an ignoramus! Start looking for stockists, do your budget, check your location, ensure you have enough money to buy stock, pay overheads and salary for 6 months. It is tough in the beginning. It is hard work. Plan who will do your bookkeeping and how you will advertise, etc.
Try out your stuff at markets and fairs first.
Be honest, nothing worse than a shopkeeper who doesn't know their stuff.
Keep your integrity.
Don’t owe anyone money. Pay up front.
Try not to do consignment deals whether it’s your stuff or someone else’s, it’s a friendship killer.
And finally.....BREATHE!
To see more of Lenny's "stuff" go to: www.goldengecko.co.za
What do you do and why do you love it?I own an esoteric shop and make many things for it myself. I employ 5 people to help in the shop.
Did you always just know what you wanted to do?
No, I have been an analytical chemist, a pharmacy assistant, a mom, a Guider, member of many committees, an assistant accountant and a salary administrator.
What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
My biggest challenge was the fear of rejection. I was afraid that people wouldn't like the products that I make and that no one would buy them. My daughter assured me that my products were good and that many people were not able to make their own or they didn't have the time or inclination and would be glad to buy it from me. So, to test the waters, I tried selling my products on consignment in a gift shop and it sold!Did you give up your day job to follow your passion? When did you know the time was right?
Yikes, I kept getting ‘called’. I would think of it all day and make things in the in my spare time. I had several ‘readings’ by psychics and readers. They all had the same answer. “Do it”, the universe is waiting. *Gulp*, could I give up my executive salary? Finally my husband said “Do it!” So I resigned. That day my husband received a pay increase equal to my salary! So it was confirmed!
What are you hoping to achieve in the future?
I hope to increase sales even more and this year to focus on new skills, like playing with my Dremel [rotary tool] more! I don’t think I will ever retire and sit on the porch, so even if I sell this business I will continue to make stuff.
What do you love most about living your passion?
I really like being my own boss, although at first it took a lot of discipline to work efficiently with the time factors
What would you advise someone who doesn't know what their passion is?
Sit down and write down all the things you are good at. And think what makes you happy. Meditate on this. Google stuff, are you happy growing plants? Or knitting or helping others. Consider what you do in your free time right now.
Do you have any tips for people who share a passion for herbology and the esoteric and want to make it their living?
Learn your subject, Learn your subject, Learn your subject! There is nothing worse than going into a shop and dealing with an ignoramus! Start looking for stockists, do your budget, check your location, ensure you have enough money to buy stock, pay overheads and salary for 6 months. It is tough in the beginning. It is hard work. Plan who will do your bookkeeping and how you will advertise, etc.
Try out your stuff at markets and fairs first.
Be honest, nothing worse than a shopkeeper who doesn't know their stuff.
Keep your integrity.
Don’t owe anyone money. Pay up front.
Try not to do consignment deals whether it’s your stuff or someone else’s, it’s a friendship killer.
And finally.....BREATHE!
To see more of Lenny's "stuff" go to: www.goldengecko.co.za
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