5 years ago, with a 2-year old in tow, and a very unwell husband, we started Content Bistro {it was then called Social Media Direct}.
We had a handful of clients, no jobs to fall back on and literally a $0 budget.
We spent a grand total of $200 on our business in the first year. That included the costs for web hosting. That’s it.
Nothing else.
Year 2 onwards, we started investing 10% of whatever we made into learning, development and growth.
We’ve stuck to that since.
Today, we make a full-time income.
We still invest 10% of what we make back into building our business more.
So, here’s the thing I want you to take away from this.
It took us 5 years of hustle, heart and holding onto our faith.
No debt.
No coach.
No private, high-end mastermind.
Pure hustle, heart and having faith.
So, if you’ve been wondering if you need to rack up debt to do business… you don’t. If you’re okay with that debt and spending, go for it. Seriously.
For us, personally, it was a no-go. We don’t do debt at all. So, if you’re like us and wonder if you’d never be able to make it because taking on debt conflicts with your values… you can stop wondering.
You will be able to make it. Nicely enough.
Sure, the journey may be a little slower or even, tougher, but make it you will.
Oh, and in case, you’re thinking that you’re not from the U.S. or you aren’t “connected” enough or any other such “disadvantage”, here’s some more food for thought.
I’m from India.
I’m not a native English speaker.
Till date, we’ve worked with over 150 clients across the world, many of whom we have never met in person, even once.
I write content that converts, product descriptions that turn browsers into buyers, social media updates that sizzle up engagement, website copy that woos readers into whipping out their wallets or signing over their coveted email addresses.
I didn’t even know how to “work online” until the year 2008. So, go figure!
Today I get testimonials, like these, that make me tear up each time I read them
I’ve been featured on sites, like Huffington Post, Make a Living Writing, The Suitcase Entrepreneur, Female Entrepreneur Association, The Art of Simple, Asian Entrepreneur and at least, 50 others.
I’ve never met, masterminded or hung out at conferences with the owners of these sites.
So, here’s the thing.
Don’t let language, location, your bank balance {or anything else!} for that matter dictate what you can or can’t do.
If I had thought that no one would hire me because well, I’m from India and yes, not a native English speaker, can you imagine the travesty?!! 😉
What you MUST let dictate your direction, intention and action are these 3 things:
1. Your skills and your knowledge. You always know a lot more than you give yourself credit for. And your skills can always be up-leveled. So focus on that.
2. Your work ethic and integrity. You will be known for this. Trust me.
3. Your passion. There will be times when you will question everything you’re doing, feel stuck or worse, take a trip to Comparisonville. Your passion and commitment to what you’re doing is what would keep you going and bring you back on track.
How do I know?
I’m not a native English speaker who works with some of the best names in the industry, has been featured on a bajillion sites, earns a full-time income while living in India and working from home, debt-free.
So, go on do your own thing and walk the path that feels perfect to you.
It’s an exciting journey, that’s for sure!
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Prena, thank you for sharing this. I have gone into more debt that I would like to admit and still not turning a profit. I’m trying to be smarter this go around. Thank you! I feel more empowered and relieved to know that there are people in the work doing it!!!
Selen,
Thank YOU for sharing your story and I totally relate to it because I’ve heard it so often. I’m SO glad to hear our story resonated with you and encouraged you!! Hugs and keep marching on!
I needed this today, thank you Prerna!
You’re most welcome Kimi! Glad it came at the right time for you!
Than you Prerna. I too am against debt and know it can be done. I’m thankful you mentioned that we don’t give ourselves enough credit. I’ve been told that by friends and colleagues and I know I’m a talented writer (among other things). Your testimony has inspired me and reminded me that I’m not alone in my feelings through this journey. God bless
Hey Vicky! You’re most welcome and SO glad this resonated with you!! I’m glad this came at the right time and I look forward to seeing your journey unfold.
Very inspiring story. Thanks for sharing. This really inspires me to make a move forward and start my blog. I am an Italian expat living in Germany, but somehow feel inspired to make a blog in English, and language was my obstacle.. that is what I thought.. as you wrote in the last paragraph.. maybe I know a lot more than I give myself credit for. Thanks, and have a nice time 🙂 Smili
Hi Smili! Thanks so much. SO glad our story resonated with you and encouraged you to start your blog! Go on, do it… and do share with us when you pop up that first post 😉
All the best!!
Prerna – we connected ages ago so I’ve followed your growth from a distance. I have had coaching clients in India so I also have an understanding of the often perceived hurdles that you have not let stop you. All credit to you and your family – and that’s the driving force, it’s clear – and thank you for sharing. Big love x
Thanks SO much Sunanda for following my journey AND for understanding!! I really appreciate that and thank you, also, for stopping by and commenting… It means a lot!