I'm already an old lady and I've spent the past few years caring for my elderly frail parents. They passed away and it was time to get back to my own life. I'd always wanted to start a business and this was my first opportunity to try something. But what to do? I have personal experience of ageing, and I was a social worker specialising in work with older people and a carer for my parents and I could see how the world is changing. We are living longer and healthier lives. Computers have arrived and the Web has made the world more accessible. Retirement is not what it used to be . It has changed, moved on, like everything else. So maybe there's a business in this?
I stumbled along trying to educate myself about creating a business. Then I discovered EPM and was swept up in a whirlwind of knowledge and worksheets and webinars and peer groups. It was very challenging and I admit I'm not as quick as I was in my 30s and 40s and had only a vague notion of my business idea but I stuck at it, enthused by Marisa and our coach and determined to make a serious effort to launch a business and learn from the attempt and then maybe launch another one. So I've made a good start and created my prototype and am preparing for a Stage 2 launch in the near future. I could not have done this without EPM and my lovely co-students and the patience and empathy of the EPM team.
What is your biggest takeaway from EPM?
The material has been comprehensive and expertly delivered so not only did we get well-researched and practical information but we also had the benefit of an excellent role model in message delivery. Huge confidence boost. Left me in no doubt that implementing the methods taught gave an excellent basis for starting and launching my own business.
How did EPM help you become successful?
Key elements of the course are the empathy and confidence-building of Marisa, the team coaches, admin people and the support staff involved plus the encouragement of peer groups and the real sense of being part of a tribe of entrepreneurs. Marisa's 'Laser' sessions were incredible, so incisive and so relevant to the questions I had about my own business efforts.
How has EPM and your success impacted your life?
I am in the later stage of life and spent some years caring for my elderly parents, both of whom were frail and in poor health and they died within a few months of each other. Starting a business has always been an ambition of mine but my life has had to be on 'hold' until now. EPM has been a challenging and rewarding time which has given me the confidence to create my business schedule and hugely enjoy developing my dream - I hope the first of many. Although I see the benefits of ageing, it's also true to say that I 'm not as quick as I was in my 30s and 40s and I've been inspired by the younger entrepreneurs with their energy and determination and the patience and understanding of the team delivering the course. Being part of the EPM tribe truly feels like being part of something that will contribute to making the world a better place.
What has been the biggest change in your business?
Before: I wanted to start a business and tried to figure out the best ways of setting about it. After: I've been exposed to sophisticated marketing techniques [which would have taken me years to discover, plodding along on my own] and essential principles of business organisation. All this, in an atmosphere of camaraderie, encouragement, energy and optimism. The biggest change in my business? From tenuous idea to actual entity with a pathway ahead and exciting prospects.
What are you most excited about moving forward with your Experience Product?
This first online venture is teaching me a lot and opens up new inspiration in many directions. I doubt I could have done this without EPM.