How's It Going?

It's check in time! Share your actions, tips, ideas, photos and successes with the wider More To Life Than Shoes community. Even if it's a quick couple of lines, we'd love to hear from you. Make the "Shoesday" check in part of your routine and keep making progress towards your goals.

To submit an article for the magazine, click the Magazine tab at the top of the page, and then find the Create a Blog tab a little further down on the right. Write your article, and then before you submit, make sure you check the "Submit to Public Magazine" tab. Then click submit. Your article won't immediately appear immediately. Once we've checked it over, we'll make it live for everyone to read.

Feb 27th

My weekly check in

By Natalie B
Hello - so i'm going to make a point of checking in with my intentions for the week as in the past this has been a really helpful way of getting tasks done. 
I'm working on audio content for this very site, so intend to have the Twitter masterclass ready for you to enjoy, i hope you've had a chance to listent to the PR podcast, if not - please do so.

Also to encourage anyone who is interested in recording some audio about things they are up to, to do just that, i have a cool little guide for our 'cool hunters' which i can send through to you if you've not heard it, so just message me via the site - we are keen to get anything you're up to, be it a new class, a new computer programme, an event you've been to included in our regular podcasts as we love hearing what you are up to.

Something else i'm working on this week is developing my pintrest board for my wedding in September, and getting the budget as accurate as possible which is interesting as there's so many ideas i keep finding..

So that's my check in for now.  
I'll be back in a week, and hope you feel like doing a similar thing
Good Luck
Natalie  
Feb 15th

Half term mayhem

By Nadia
I'm checking in....

It's half term this week, so it's been a bit up and down, round and about, a bit ooo and a bit ahhh. Basically, it's been chaos.
I've been trying to cram work into every spare moment and ended up giving Jacob snacks to keep him quiet while I make the odd call here and there. I'm  exhausted!
But, despite the tantrums and dramas, it's been quite a productive week. I ran the first ever online meet up for leaders on Monday night. Despite the odd technical hitch, I could definitely see the potential in using that kind of video technology. Just gotta iron a few probs out.
Yesterday I met up with the lovely Duda for coffee - leader of our Mayfair group. She's wonderful. We had a great chat and a bit of a brainstorm. I just love hanging out with inspiring and positive people who leave you energised and buzzing with a sense of possibility.
The rest of the week is choca block - I've got meetings with lots of potential new leaders and am even popping in to London Fashion Week. If I can get there in a half way stylish outfit that isn't covered in something revolting it'll be a miracle!
Plus, I'm working on a new and exciting project. Can't tell you much about it yet as it's top secret, but I shall keep you posted!
Nadia x

Feb 11th

Baby Steps…. easy-to-do top tips to get your business started

By Nadia

If you’ve got a dream, but it’s not happening for you. Never fear! We’ve got some quick top tips to help you kick start your entrepreneurial aspirations.

Suck it up
Look around you. Inspiration is everywhere. If, for example jewellery is your thing, check out magazines, fashion blogs, student shows, local boutiques and online retailers to immerse yourself in the world you’re interested in.

Talk to People
Approach people who do what you’d love to do and ask for their support and advice. You could even offer to do some work experience for free to top up your skills. Most people are happy to help, plus, you’ll be making them feel important too!  

Friends First
Your friends, family and of course your local More To Life Than Shoes group are your ready made focus group. During wine tasting sessions, fundraisers, CheekyBingo parties or down the pub get togethers ask them to sample your wares and to give you honest feedback. Is the price right? Do they like the colour / taste etc? Where would they expect to see them - Selfridges or the local market? And so on. Really pick their brains. Ply them with wine if necessary!

Home Hub
We know some people can be a bit snobby about setting up a business from home, but why would you risk loads of cash on office space or a retail premise before you’re ready? We’ve met some amazing women who’ve started businesses from their kitchen table, including the likes of pottery genius Emma Bridgewater and famous inventor Mandy Haberman. Hanging out at home until you’re ready is the smart thing to do. 

Local People
Make use of local websites and newspapers to spread the word. Local journalists are always on the look out for new businesses, and especially during the recession and the current economic doom and gloom positive news will be welcomed with open arms!

Network Your Socks Off
Get involved in local groups (like More To Life Than Shoes!) to build your network. You’ll be amazed at the power of word of mouth and how quickly news of your new venture starts to spread. Plus, having a supportive network of likeminded ladies to help you make it happen will come in very handy.

Tweet On
Twitter is a fantastic tool - and it’s free. Get onto Twitter and start engaging with people in your area who share your interests and business will start to blossom. Just, remember, to chat to people first and foremost, and not to endlessly plug your stuff!