Is your business really sustainable?

In this week’s article in my column in the GreenWise department at Handmade News, I explore what it means to truly be a sustainable business today. It’s more than being green. It’s also about profitability and longevity. Is your business truly sustainable? Sustainable Business: It’s More Than Being Green will not only help you to answer this important question, but also discover ways to benefit the environment, while increasing your profit margin!

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Question: Is your business truly sustainable? Is this a goal you’re working to achieve? Do you find specific issues challenging? Is there any helpful advice you’d share with others on becoming a sustainable business? Share your thoughts below.

Writing a new business plan is very revealing

I just began working on a complicated, multi-stage business plan for Acailawen Designs. I initially wrote my business plan to focus more heavily on custom design services, with sales as a secondary consideration. Things have changed, and now my plan must change to meet my business’ updated needs.

I had initially planned to simply revamp my existing plan, but I discovered that it was unintentionally dumped from my system during a recent hard drive reformat. As it turned out, my backup file on DVD was also corrupt. So, I had to start over from scratch. I admit, I wasn’t too keen on starting over at first, but now realize it’s probably just as well. I can’t say that I find the process enjoyable. But, it is certainly revealing. I have quickly come to realize just how much my direction has changed in the months since I decided to officially go into business. And, my business and design procedures are far more defined than they previously were. I have much better handle on my business overall. So, while I can’t say writing a business plan is how I’d like to be spending my time, in the end, I am certain it will be much more beneficial this time around.

The back end of creative business

Good morning all. I started my day with coffee and spam, how about you? ;)

I was planning to get some bookkeeping and inventory work done today, but it seems that I keep getting tied up with other things. I love creative work, but that is only one part of being a designer. Today is mostly an ‘office’ day. I can’t say that’s my preferred way to spend my time, but it is crucial to earning a living. The joys of being an independent designer!