
Preparing for Obstacles in Your Small Business Journey
Starting and running a small business is a thrilling experience, but it can also be fraught with challenges. As you navigate your entrepreneurial journey, it’s crucial to anticipate potential obstacles, such as not budgeting enough, delays, or fluctuating costs. Here’s how to prepare for these common hurdles to ensure your business remains resilient.

Securing Equipment and Supplies: Understanding Leasing vs. Purchasing
When starting a small business, one of the most significant decisions you’ll face is how to secure equipment and supplies. Whether you’re in the pet care industry, hospitality, or manufacturing, the choice between leasing or purchasing can impact both your finances and operations. Here’s what you need to know to make the best choice for your business.

Creating Projections for Your Small Business
A well-designed projections spreadsheet includes estimated revenue, fixed and variable costs, and potential profit margins. Start by listing all your anticipated expenses, including rent, utilities, inventory, payroll, and marketing. This will give you a clear picture of how much money you need to generate to break even and eventually turn a profit (Burns, 2021). Be sure to differentiate between fixed costs—those that remain consistent month-to-month—and variable costs that may fluctuate depending on business activity.

Assembling a Team: Building Your Support Network as a Solopreneur
Assembling a team of trusted professionals is a wise investment in the longevity and success of your business. While it may feel like an added expense initially, the expertise and support they provide are invaluable, offering peace of mind and a solid foundation upon which to build your business.

Crafting a Business Plan: The Blueprint for Your Success
Creating a comprehensive business plan is one of the most crucial steps in starting a new business. If I am being honest, Eternal Tides relied on a Google Docs template to help structure our thoughts and goals for this document, but many other resources are available to guide you through the process.

Finding an Idea Worthy of Attention
Finding a business idea worthy of attention requires a mix of introspection, market analysis, and trend observation. By combining personal passion with market demand and forward-looking insights, entrepreneurs can develop ideas that are not only innovative but also have the potential for long-term success.