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.
Studio design plans on hold.
An unexpected move has put my green jewelry studio design plans on hold. While I can’t say I’m overly thrilled about the delays, there is a bright side to everything. I now have a bit more time to work on my business and marketing plans, to research my equipment options, to save for needed equipment, tools and materials, as well as to decide exactly what I want to incorporate into the overall design.
On the downside of all of this, I cannot determine the exact design (layout & setup) until I have a new space in which to build the studio. I tend to believe that things usually happen for a reason, although sudden surprises can certainly throw a wrench into your plans! I’m going to roll with it and turn this curve ball into a positive.
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.