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By: Lauren Shaffer
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own business?
Don’t take it too seriously. Life is long and we will endure numerous opportunities to pursue a goal, many of which are bound to fail. The right thing will eventually work out. Work hard, enjoy the process, and let the world take you where you are supposed to end up!
How does you your business look different now compared to when you first started?
When I first started, I was just 18, so a lot of my commissions and sales were from friends and family. I was working on pieces during free periods at my high school art studio (thank you to my art teacher lol), and was pretty unorganized. Now, I have a system for when I accept commissions, a streamlined Instagram feed, cohesive website that doubles as my portfolio, a business email– all the serious businessy things! This year I’ve honed in on making my business operate smoothly. With my effort over the years, I’ve gained more traction through word of mouth and received commissions + sold art to some pretty cool people. I got asked to be in the Austin Scout Guide this year, which was awesome, and a great reminder that I’m going somewhere even when I get discouraged.
What is the hardest part about being an entrepreneur?
The hardest part of being an entrepreneur for me right now is definitely the unsureness of it all. I’m graduating in the spring, and while I’ve been pretty successful throughout college in selling pieces and growing my brand, I have no idea if my business would flourish as I expect if I have no other source of income. Putting all my eggs in one basket is scary, especially if that’s what I do after graduation. This all goes back to the doubt/ uncertainty I talked about earlier. But on the other hand, you never know until you try, and trying is the least I can do.
About The Author:
Lauren Shaffer '24
Human Dimensions of Organizations
Entrepreneurial LeadHERship Fall 2023 Student
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