From a young age, I wanted to run my own business. My first gig was teaching English to my dad. The training was structured (set dates and times, lessons written out – I think I still have something – if I find it, I’ll post it one of these days.)  There was homework – graded no differently than mine was in school; and I charged for my services – all of 25 cents per class, per the contract 🙂 Not bad for a 10 year old. I think I was inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit that runs in my family – both my parents were self-employed for many years. My mother was in home care services, and my father manufactured leather handbags – right from our garage. I can still hear the sound of the machines going, and I have to admit – growing up, it was really cool to have unique school bags made by my dad.  My brother also runs his own business; and I have a number of relatives who have ventured in the world of entrepreneurship.

So what’s a girl to do?

In 2005, a number of events got me thinking: what was truly at the core of my professional happiness? Was my work fulfilling and did I want to continue down the same path? Probably some of the same questions you’ve asked yourself at some point or other. I loved what I was doing and was very good at it; but admittedly, I I was not the best at being an employee. I always felt my creativity was suppressed by policy and bureaucracy – do you know what I mean? And I get it, rules are in place for a reason (I know because I sometimes wrote them.) But the 9-5 was no longer serving my professional growth; so I took some time to assess my options.

My then-current job was going to be eliminated; and if change was inevitable, I was going to steer it in a direction that allowed me to do something that I was truly passionate about and would offer value to others so they too could experience purpose, joy and freedom in their business and life. One morning, on my way to work, I made a decision to reroute (can you hear the GPS voice saying ‘recalculating, recalculating’…)  I said goodbye to that job, and two weeks later, Alliance Business Solutions opened its online doors.

Let me assure you this wasn’t an overnight idea. I’d been thinking about this business for a long time – what it would look like, who I would work with, what sort of impact I wanted to make, and how the business would grow. The imminent downsizing of my last job turned out to be a blessing in disguise for the journey I was really meant to embark on.  And what a ride it’s been!

Freedom, flexibility, struggles and rewards

Yes, these are all part of being a business owner. It’s not always glamorous – a LOT of work goes into starting up, running and growing a business. There are so many hats to wear – one minute you’re the CFO making sure your numbers add up, the next you’re the sales and marketing department; not to mention admin and customer service. No lack of creativity here! You’re working IN and ON the business constantly – and then there’s that little thing called life added to the mix! It’s an ongoing challenge that keeps every business owner on their toes while working toward their goals. But there are also many experiences that I would not have had otherwise, if not for that leap of faith. And you can too – trust me, it’s possible with the right mindset, strategic planning, focus and of course – taking ACTION!

What’s in a name?

I remember tinkering with a bunch of names, and at one point thinking, ‘I want to create an alliance between my colleagues and clients alike”. There. That was it. ‘Alliance’ describes the intention to align with like-minded entrepreneurs; while the ‘Business Solutions’ describes what I offer – business strategies and implementation solutions to help entrepreneurs lead and grow their businesses.  And that’s what continues to be the driving force – to help entrepreneurs build a strong foundation, stay focused on their expertise, accountable to their goals – and turn their vision into a rewarding and profitable venture.

Where I am, Where I’m going

I started Alliance Business Solutions as a Virtual Assistant, leaning on my extensive background in business administration – supporting senior executives, managing client services, recruitment and operations management. Over the years, my role and the business evolved; and today I focus on advisory and coaching services – something I’m absolutely passionate about!

I’ve witnessed business owners experience increased productivity, revenue growth, greater clarity, confidence and focus – and overall lifestyle freedom as a result of the strategic actions implemented in their businesses.  And I must add – I’m honoured to work with some of the BEST clients ever!

But the fun doesn’t stop there. Goals need to be nourished and I continue to invest in learning opportunities – from books to online training, to coaching (even a coach needs a coach.) I’m constantly involved in something that supports my business objectives and, in turn, my ability to give back to the business community. Networking, workshops and conferences dot my calendar throughout the year – live and virtual. I’m also privileged to be a part of some amazing networks and online communities, filled with brilliant minds covering many facets of business.  So when you and I work together, it’s like you have access to a world of expertise.

I’m truly grateful for that burst of courage back in 2005 – and there’s still so much ahead! Care to join me and grow your own business? I’m motivated to help you reach your goals, and I’d be honoured to watch you Catapult Your Biz™ with clarity, confidence and focus!

Schedule a Clarity Call and let’s explore working together.

Cheers!