Watching a fellow creative plan, launch and grow a business from the ground up is undeniably one of the best perks of running Social House. I find all of the growth stages really rewarding to witness, but launch is my jam. It's even more special when the entrepreneur is young but experienced, motivated, oh-so-talented and incredibly kind and supportive - and for me, there's a extra cherry on top when the business AND the person are both ones I can particularly relate to. All of that is exactly what Ellen and her newly launched Coule Company, a content strategy and UX consultancy, embody - and we are beyond lucky to have her as a neighbor and a Housemate. We recently grabbed a few moments out of her day to get a peek into her daily life, how she got started, and the things that drive her forward.
What are you drinking?
Water. Always water.
Current mood in less than 3 words:
Forever optimistic.
How did you discover that being in marketing was what you wanted to do?
Through the process of learning and starting my own business. A lot of my friends became very interested and would ask me questions, so I loved teaching them everything I was learning. I sort of fell into it, I never saw myself doing marketing up until a few years ago and am so passionate about it.
How'd you take the leap from passion to full time job?
My grandfather and my sister both became very ill in 2015, which really shifted my whole perspective on life in general. I just knew that I couldn't miss out on that last year of my grandfather's life. My sister recovered from brain surgery very quickly, but it totally shook my world and made me realize I needed to create my own lifestyle that would allow me to focus my energy on my family.
What's your favorite part about what you do?
I love being able to help set trends and influence the market. It's constantly evolving, which I really love and is also very collaborative.
How has Social House helped you with the way you do business?
It's introduced me to an amazing network of inspiring people. I love being around so many female entrepreneurs, which has been a really cool change for me from my past life in corporate, which was a very male-dominated industry. I love meeting women who are on a similar path as me.
Any productivity tips or secrets?
Start each day with an intention of how that day will look. If possible, make a list the night before to reduce decision fatigue.
Any tips for other creatives looking to start their own business?
Yes. Talk to people in the industry that you're interested in. Talk to people who you may look up to, find experts in your field - don't be afraid to ask for help.
Your ah-ha moment:
I've had so many moments in the last two years that have reminded me how short and precious life is, which puts everything into perspective for me. You only have this moment. That reminder has helped me to stay motivated and passionate.
What's the most challenging part of owning your own business?
Trying to do it all alone. Get help wherever you can and delegate.
And the most rewarding part?
Giving yourself credit for all that you've done. Knowing that you can do anything; anything is possible if you open your own business.
What's the most fulfilling part of your week:
Talking to clients and fellow entrepreneurs, any time I can communicate and collaborate. The social aspect is my favorite part of my work and week.
Something that has happened while owning your own business that you never could have planned for or expected:
I did not expect to have as much trouble focusing on work at home with my two cats. They're terribly distracting, which I did not see being such a challenge. That was one of my key factors in finding Social House, since I needed a cat-free work zone.
What do you wish more people knew about you?
I'm a very positive person, but also experience anxiety and depression, which I've dealt with my entire life. Not a lot of people know that about me, but I know it's important to share since so many people experience the same thing. It's a conversation that definitely needs to be had more often in the entrepreneurial world.
Your dream job:
To have my own meditation studio.
Your favorite piece of work:
An online course that I worked on with a fellow entrepreneur. I did a lot of content strategy and editing, so I love that the course has been used dozens of times to help other entrepreneurs start their own online business.
The post Small Biz Stories: Ellen Coule appeared first on Social House.