Chapter 1: Beginning the Journey

This month marks an incredible milestone—19 years since I embarked on my journey as a sole trader. In the early days, I set out to provide exceptional training in various Microsoft applications, small business topics (including accounting, of course!), and my lucrative specialty: MYOB training.

At the start of every month, I would send out a straightforward table via email to my contacts, detailing my availability. This approach proved to be remarkably effective!

Having invested considerable effort into becoming a certified trainer in sought-after business subjects, my dedication and the extensive network I cultivated began to pay off. Before long, I found myself engaged in fascinating projects across Brisbane. The best part? The diversity of my work! I enjoyed the thrill of arriving, applying my expertise, and avoiding the complexities of office politics.

Interestingly, I was part of the gig economy long before it became mainstream, long before platforms like Freelancer.com, Upwork, or Fiverr emerged.

Chapter 2: The Ideal Tech Stack

If I were to start over today, this would be my ideal tech stack: I would collect and organize essential details of my network using Google Contacts, leveraging its labels feature to send group emails via Gmail. I’d set up my schedule with Calendly, integrated with a payment processor (Stripe is my choice) and Google Calendar. To keep my network informed of my availability and booking links, I’d utilize MailChimp for newsletters. In addition to on-site training in the CBD, I would also branch out into online training.

It’s worth noting that only MailChimp was available during my initial years; it launched in 2001, and I began using it in May 2011. In hindsight, this tool would have been invaluable for mass emailing my network about my activities and offerings.

I hope sharing this tech stack proves beneficial for those looking to offer online training services.

Chapter 3: Balancing Work and Family

The only photo I could find of myself from 2004 captures a special moment—we had just purchased the most affordable home in a lovely neighborhood. I was eager to showcase the high ceilings and beautiful cornicing. While my children always came first, I knew I needed to work to cover expenses (and yes, to repaint those walls sunflower yellow!).

Establishing myself as a sole trader allowed me the flexibility to work around my children's schedules. My journey began at a rather uncomfortable wooden table beneath an air conditioner. I learned to tune out family sounds and seize any opportunity to work. In a rather embarrassing episode, I kept my receipts in a plastic shopping bag that was inadvertently discarded, leading to a tax ruling to recover my expenses.

Chapter 4: Sharing My Insights

Eventually, I compiled my experiences into a book titled “How to Start a Business in 7 Days,” which is still available at local libraries. It’s hard to believe it’s been 19 years since I began this journey. I started with little knowledge but kept pressing forward. I prioritized training over compliance deadlines, which allowed me to build a sustainable lifestyle business around raising my children while juggling sports events, music festivals, and my role as a taxi driver for my kids.

Now that I’m a bit older and have gained wisdom through various awards, both won and lost, I recognize the significance of reflecting on personal milestones and celebrating achievements. I encourage you to mark your business registration dates on your calendar as an annual reminder—take a moment to celebrate your journey!