( on stage during Market America World Conference in North Carolina)
Before I started Loren Jewels, Motives Cosmetics and Cellular labs my husband JR would often ask me, “If you love beauty products, fashion and jewelry so much, why not make a business out of it?” Now, isn’t that a simple thought? Obviously, I went ahead and took his advice. And not only did I have fun planning the line, finding the right people to work with and creating the designs, but it has also turned out to be a profitable business. Now many others who started from ground up just like me are making money with Motives, Loren Jewels and Cellular Labs through Market America and they are all very successful at it.
(with my Executive team, celebrating a new venture over 10 years ago from Left to right: Dick Hall, Joe Bolyard, me, Marty Weissman, Andrew Weissman, Marc Ashley, Dennis Franks and my husband JR Ridinger)
Most people think work is supposed to be, well, work. And sure, it’s not supposed to be easy, but it can definitely be enjoyable. All of us have those days at the office where we just want to throw in the towel, but if you have those days everyday to the point that it is making you depressed, it may be time to reevaluate your chosen profession. No job is worth making you unhealthy and negatively affecting your relationships. It may be time for a change.
(Jennifer Lopez wearing Loren Jewels)I know what you’re thinking, “Loren, reevaluating sounds fab, but I have bills to pay and mouths to feed.” I can relate to that feeling. It’s the same feeling I had 18 years ago just before JR, my brother and I decided to leave everything behind to start Market America. I’m not going to lie, there were days I could not sleep thinking about how we had no money or
anything to rely on. But once I pushed my fear to the side, I could feel in my gut that we were creating something special. It was that feeling that kept me going. Regardless of the stress, I was happy because what I was doing was fulfilling and it felt important to people other than just us.
(Motives backstage during Swim Week Miami)
So let’s think about the things that do make you happy like your hobbies. I made a business out of my hobby, so you can too. Maybe you like to journal? What about a career as a writer? Maybe every time you bake something everyone wants to know your secret? How about a bakery? The list goes on, really. And I bet you already have something in mind. If you do and you know you have a talent, try it as a side job for a while and see where it takes you. Leaving your stable job abruptly may not be the best decision, but dedicating some time to your new venture at night or on the weekends is a safe way to wet your feet. Who knows? You might just be the next Betty Crocker!
Let me know how is your job experience? and what makes you happy! Tweet me at @lorenridinger
~Love Loren
