Mar 6, 2013

Don’t Wait. Start Stuff! 5 Tips for Business Growth + Giveaway

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So, I got this shiny new site and suddenly I felt paralyzed. I had poured my entire heart into every pixel. The new shop exploded. I had to hire a shop manager ASAP. We sold out of a lot of things way too fast (great problem, I know). There have been a lot of growing pains. Good growing pains and a whole lot of change.

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Friends, change is awesome but it’s also scary, isn’t it? Since our company’s growth (like kudzu) doesn’t seem to be slowing down, I’ve been thinking about how much change I’ve endured in my business over the last decade. From it, here are 5 Things I’ve Learned About Business Growth. I hope these little nuggets help you, too.

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1. I tell this to all of my clients, too. Be prepared for sudden growth. Streamline, simplify, automate, pre-stamp envelopes, take out the trash, clear the clutter and give yourself no excuse not to succeed when “Oprah calls”. In general, it is wiser to use your time to get your back-end organized and streamlined internally than to market yourself externally. Do one in preparation for the other. I learned this the hard way when we first launched Southern Weddings in 2008. Our brand exploded onto the market and I wasn’t prepared, so I ended up working 24/7 and my life suffered. My work suffered. I bit off more than I could chew. I kept thinking that “getting bigger” was the goal. If that is your goal, ask yourself WHY. Now I make decisions from my core – a core that is grounded in what matters most to me – and it never fails. Sudden growth still catches me off guard at times, but I’m much better at navigating those waters now with full sails!

2. Done is better than perfect. And another phrase I say to myself often: One thing at a time.

3. In times of busy business, stick to your CORE. It will guide you and help you make efficient decisions quickly. The goal in growth is not to get “bigger,” it’s to get better. You cannot please everyone. And, if you are doing things right and being very specific to your core, you won’t please everyone. That’s a very good thing. Your goal should be to capture a specific loyal audience, not the masses. We’ve had exponential success by following this model in business. When things get crazy around a launch or magazine release, we are all on the same page because we know exactly what our mission is. These are the little desk cards Nicole made for each of us as a reminder of our core and to be sure everything we do aligns with it. How cute is Henrietta? She is our office chicken mascot. Oh yes.

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I don’t have to micromanage anyone in this office ever. They know what our heart is and they are as passionate as I am about making that heart happen. Specific and small are the new big. Follow your core. Say NO to what doesn’t fit your core, and take big risks in saying YES to what does.

4. Growth is exciting, but be sure to prioritize. And “prioritizing” doesn’t mean letting things slide. It means being more efficient. When you add to your company, don’t forget the rest of your business that still has to run and run well. If your core services fall through the cracks and you spread yourself thin, your growth is pointless. So, be prepared, be efficient, get more help if you can’t do it all and grow wisely. Use your time wisely. Get off Facebook. Make things happen.

5. Don’t wait to start your big idea. Growth is scary because it can mean big life change, but isn’t that risk worth it for what you really want?? The timing will never be “perfect.” As my friend Ritchie says in his new book, The Power of Starting Something Stupid, “Don’t wait. Start stuff!” Stuff meaning the things that MATTER. Take risks. Take risks. Take risks! In the midst of huge transition and growing pains and any time you are overwhelmed, just keep choosing what’s right. One. Step. At. A. Time. But, the point is to CHOOSE. Again: Take risks. Take risks. Take risks. Don’t let fear or a state of “overwhelmed” keep you from moving forward. Don’t wait. Start good stuff!

I love this excerpt from Richie’s book: “I refuse to achieve success at the expense of my life. The two – life success and genuine fulfillment – will have to go hand in hand, because I will not keep my head down for the next forty years only to look up at the end and say, “Now I can finally start living!… Don’t wait. Start stuff.”

I use this quote a lot because it’s true: A year from now, you will wish you had started today. What do you need to start? What is your “stupid” idea that you want to make happen? Leave a comment on this post and I’m going to give away another copy of Richie’s book to a random commenter. Even if you entered on Instagram already, enter again if you didn’t win! I’m so blessed to know Natalie and Richie and to have the opportunity to share my story in this book. I hope you grab your copy before it sells out! I just bought 12 for friends, and one for the winner here : ) Can you tell Gracie loves this book, too?

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OK! Speaking of winners, there are LOTS of winners to announce! All randomly chosen. Congrats to Laura Frances, the winner of my Instagram/Facebook giveaway of Richie’s book. You will LOVE it! And congrats to the three random winners chosen to receive prints from my new shop: Annie {little&ever}, Vanessa from V3 Events and Fiona Cheng! Winners, email me and I’ll get your prizes to you!

SINCERE THANKS to everyone who commented about my launch. Your comments made my heart so full! After working so hard on this new site for a year and a half, it is so wonderful to know that you have been inspired. I hope y’all will come back often : )

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This free download and more can be found here.

And really, I want to hear from you so I can hopefully encourage you or pray for you. Don’t wait. Start stuff. Comment below and tell me what you want to start. And don’t be afraid to comment. I know some of you feel that way and you are not alone. Lurk no more and talk to me : )

74 Comments

  1. Nancy H on March 6, 2013 at 10:26 pm

    I want to start living the life I’ve imagined! I want to let out my creative side and see where my passion leads me.

  2. Brittany on March 6, 2013 at 10:29 pm

    Hahah ‘lurk no more’ I’m such a blog lurker! But I have commented in the past so I’m not a total lurker haha

    I think starting a font foundry is something that I’d like to do. It combines my serious love of fonts with design and I just think it would be the best job ever 🙂

  3. Alison on March 6, 2013 at 10:30 pm

    I have been wanting and waiting to start my creative business for years. And then one day I read “a year from now you will wish you had started today”. I started 8 months ago, and have been grateful every day for your encouragement to your faithful listeners, and the day I read that popular quote for the first time.

    I wanted to thank you, and second all of the wonderful advice you’ve given. Especially (especially especially) #1. It would have been powerfully helpful in this “help! I’m drowning!” stage. I think #4 is next!

    Good luck to the hopeful book giveaway winners!

  4. Michelle Amarillo on March 6, 2013 at 10:31 pm

    Oh Lara! This blog post is amazing and speaks so close to what I am going through right now. Between juggling a full time job, running my own business on the side, being a wife, friend and daughter.. I am surprised I am not burned out, yet! I get to meet you next week and seriously cannot wait! I am prepared to face my fears, challenge them and make things happen!

  5. Caitlin Alexander on March 6, 2013 at 10:33 pm

    I want to start shooting more weddings for my ideal clients. I want to work on my first styled shoot. I want to grow my business and dare to dream and live a life WORTHY of my calling.

  6. Lindsay on March 6, 2013 at 10:37 pm

    Thank you for the inspiration. Even though I have a 2 year old and 4 month old twins, I have two things on my heart. To get creative and start selling some of my creations, & to start to build a community of women with my neighbours who support & encourage each other.

  7. Jessica Clinch on March 6, 2013 at 10:37 pm

    I really want to start my Etsy shop! I have been dreaming up all of the details for so long, and this post is exactly what I needed to push myself to make the tough decisions and START!

  8. Shelby on March 6, 2013 at 10:42 pm

    I just started my big risk, pursuing my passion with event design & coordination. I thought it would be less scary once my website finally launched (which was last month), however, its not. But slowly, I’m bringing The Day’s Design to life. Thanks for your pep talks & inspirations!

  9. Stephanie on March 6, 2013 at 10:43 pm

    It seems as though your posts get to me at the most perfect timing. I am in the very beginning stages of starting up a custom upholstery and handmade decor shop. Thank you for your words of wisdom and wonderful inspiration. I’m ready to start my stuff!

  10. Cherise H. on March 6, 2013 at 10:48 pm

    Goodness this is good. Good inspiration, miss Lara… for this I cannot thank you enough.

    My something stupid is launching my freelance writing career and kicking off an event planning business, both as a sole proprietor. Crazy, and maybe weird to some, I know. But these are dreams I’ve had for years and I’m halfway through figuring out the back-end… does that even make sense?

    Regardless, thank you for all your inspiring words. I read your blog and stories pretty much daily. Stalker? Probably. =)

  11. Betsey and Becca Interiors on March 6, 2013 at 10:49 pm

    Such an encouraging and wonderful post! Just what we needed to hear as we start our design firm!

  12. Catherine Guidry on March 6, 2013 at 10:56 pm

    Thank you so much for the post! What an inspiration. 🙂 I can see the effort and time you’ve placed into sharing….

    My goal is to WAKE UP EARLY…consistently!

  13. Rhiannon on March 6, 2013 at 10:58 pm

    You know what I want to start, Lara! Well finish. I’ve already started. And I just booked a shoot day for April 8th to keep making it happen. The Power of Starting Something Stupid. Can I tattoo that on my forehead? 🙂

  14. Mariya on March 6, 2013 at 11:08 pm

    I want to live out my life with happiness in joy in Christ each day! I left stupid circumstances get in my way and make me feel sad.
    Thanks for your posts and wisdom! MIssed your blog 🙂

  15. Megan on March 6, 2013 at 11:12 pm

    Go Lara! This is defintely helpful. I got hired by TWO ladies this week to help them with interior decorating & a volunteer job offer with the komen race AND I work part time at a boutique so I’m suddenly swamped! But design is something I’ve wanted to do for so long and it’s funny how leaving your comfort zone (nc) and moving to a whole new place (tx) can get you going on chasing dreams! We will see what this leads to but I may head back to school and then START my own boutique design firm ….eventually! There. I SAID IT! Woo hoo!

  16. Jill on March 6, 2013 at 11:14 pm

    I just love your posts! Encouraging and most importantly uplifting, which seem to always catch me just at the right time. I am in fitness/personal training, and I want to redo my mission statement and focus on mom’s and family fitness…there is something amazing about learning to be active and having fun together as a family 😉
    I to love the Norton’s! Natalie has photographed my family a few times and she is amazing. Thanks for your inspiring words, all the way from Utah!

  17. Amberly on March 6, 2013 at 11:40 pm

    So many great tips! I am living by “done is better than perfect.” Oftentimes I find myself procrastinating for no reason and I just have to get it done.

  18. Katie @ A Place to Dwell on March 6, 2013 at 11:49 pm

    Lara, finding your blog has been SUCH a blessing. I’ve written my goals and am working on de-cluttering. I still need to catch up on the posts that came after that one, but I am inspired in a big way to keep going after my God-sized dreams! 🙂 Right now, the biggest goal on my heart is to see Him develop the dreams He’s given me and for those dreams to bear His fruit in my life. I desire to inspire, encourage, and spur on others through my words and my artwork. I am currently writing an eBook on inspired living and what it means/looks like to live fully and creatively in every season. This book is my heart, and I’m so excited to finish it and release it into the world. Thanks for giving me encouragement and motivation to keep pursuing my dreams for His glory! You’re amazing and inspiring and one super cool lady! I’m thankful to connect with you through the blog world! 🙂

  19. Ziza on March 6, 2013 at 11:56 pm

    Being in the wedding industry, promoting strong marriages is at the core of what my husband and I do together. There are some pretty big risks on the horizon forcing me to choose to put mine first in a “stupid” way…but I know it’ll be the best, most authentic & worthwhile way at the same time. I totally relate with the “you won’t please everyone” point. Choosing the worship of God over the praise of men…always!

  20. Vio on March 7, 2013 at 12:01 am

    Hey! I’ve been following you on Instagram for a while, and I love the joy you have in your life and the courage you inspire to me. Since I made my wedding invitations, I keep thinking of starting to do unique handmade wedding stationary, however there is always something to stop me: either don’t have time, or I don’t have all the resources I would like to, sometimes I get sidetracked so on so forth… Reading this post of yours, motivated me so much! Also, “Get off Facebook!! Make things happen!” is like you spoke to myself! (even though I spend more time on Instagram, I get the idea…)

    Thanks a lot for the advices here, I will deff start making things happen!!!

    God bles you and your family!

  21. Chandra Verbic on March 7, 2013 at 12:26 am

    Be prepared for sudden growth… it’s so funny how I can be excited yet apprehensive for this step on my new business venture. Thank you for continuing to inspire and encourage me.

  22. Mel on March 7, 2013 at 12:56 am

    I want to start a portraiture photography business, go to grad school, and have another baby. THANK YOU for your constant inspiration in both faith and life. Thank you!

  23. Tanya Holloway on March 7, 2013 at 1:30 am

    I want to start taking risks….something WAY outside my comfort zone but necessary !

  24. Amanda Risius on March 7, 2013 at 1:58 am

    I want to become an event planner/designer! I actually am going to college for Marketing which is helpful, but all of my internships are not fitting and not what I see myself doing. Event design is where my heart is. The hard part is where to start?!
    hammerandheels.blogspot.com

  25. Pauline on March 7, 2013 at 2:08 am

    Hi Lara, I’ve been following you on Twitter but it’s my first time to visit your blog. Has this just been re-designed? It’s gorgeous. And what an inspirational book you have there. I’m glad I took the plunge and launched my own blog because I love to write, make art, and put a smile on people’s faces. I still have a long way to go, and this is an inspiration that I’m really needing right now.

    I’ve always loved weddings and I want to start designing invitations. I know how wedding preparations can take a toll on a bride – I’ve been there! Someday I would love to work with brides who share the same design taste as I do, and design for them the wedding invite of their dreams.

  26. Ashley Schooley on March 7, 2013 at 2:51 am

    I will be graduating college in 2 months (yay!) and I would like to start my own invitation and paper goods shop! I’ve already got a named picked out!

  27. Jenn Pochobradsky on March 7, 2013 at 2:55 am

    Congratulations on all of your new endeavors, Lara!!
    Everything is so incredibly uplifting, lovely and best of all — HAPPY!! 🙂
    I tried commenting already and I think it posted on the wrong post 🙁 {fail}
    This year I have really been inspired by your blog to start living the life I want and truly dreaming BIG! I started my blog {scary and exciting at the same time – yikes!} and in the next year or two, would like to own my own business {stupid? maybe.}. I never thought I’d be at a point in my life to actually be taking baby steps and slowly, but surely, DOING little things to get there.
    Your gift of encouragement and uplifting love to people you have never met is amazing and I’m in awe of that generosity and genuine quality! Keep it up!
    xoxo

  28. kristin brown on March 7, 2013 at 2:55 am

    I’m starting a new business. I’ve been a photographer for five years but I feel a pretty serious calling to do work as a business consultant for small creative companies and help them simplify, systemize, and grow. So… I’m quitting my day job on Friday and moving forward 100% with that! I can’t believe it. Thank you for sharing your wisdom so openly. I love your posts on life and business!

  29. Angela on March 7, 2013 at 4:18 am

    First off, your site is BEAUTIFUL..(no surprise, your work is always fabulous :). Secondly, thank you for the tips. My little business has grown a lot for me in the past few months. It is hard to slow down because I want to keep growing and pushing further…but I realize I need to take a step back and understand that although its my business (My baby) it shouldnt go before my family and living life. You are such an inspiration, thank you!

  30. Marla on March 7, 2013 at 4:33 am

    Hi Lara, another lurker here :)I’ve been following your blog and IG for awhile. You have inspired me in so many ways — I find myself thinking about your advice often and sharing it with others..but what I love most is your passion and desire to share Christ with everyone. So many times the verses you share have uplifted me. I have a dream of one day selling some of my photographs. I know soon I must “Make it Happen” Something I’m praying about & waiting on the Lord.

  31. Rachel @ yourtablecloth.com on March 7, 2013 at 4:40 am

    Thank you so much! Your blog is amazing; I’ve come to really love it!

  32. Sara on March 7, 2013 at 4:57 am

    Lara, these tips are SO helpful! Thank you! I’ve been totally overwhelmed since starting my fitness blog for brides, but I’m not ready to throw in the towel yet! Especially not after reading these encouraging words. I need to work smarter and be more efficient! I need to focus in on my core, and not try to be or do what I think others expect from me (and my brand)! My “something stupid” has already begun, but it’s going to be a journey and I could use all the encouragement I can get! Thank you for your continued fire and inspiration! I cannot wait to hear all the goodness that comes from the two-day MTH conference! I will be there in spirit!!!!

  33. Ashleigh (Act on Inspiration) on March 7, 2013 at 5:34 am

    I really want to start my own graphic design business (and perhaps even stationery line…!) It’s something I’ve thought about for a while and I’m finally realising thinking/talking about it will get me no where. I am SUPER glad I came across you, your brands and Southern Weddings when I did as it has all been a HUGE inspiration for me! I cannot thankyou enough!!! Much love, Ashleigh xxoo

  34. Fiona Cheng on March 7, 2013 at 8:05 am

    Thank you Lara! Thank you xxx. I e-mailed you already and I am so excited I was jumping around my living room! x

    Since I already won the previous giveaway I went to purchase Richie’s book on Amazon! I already finished Love Does and am going through the Couple’s Devotional Bible with my hubby so your recommendations are so close to my heart.

    Thank you. You inspire me everyday. When I feel low or disenchanted I look over your Instagram (a bit creepy, I know… lol) and read through all the verses you share and smile at Grace’s antics. They pick me up anyday. x

    Thank you. And God bless you abundantly!

  35. Mandy on March 7, 2013 at 12:55 pm

    Hi Lara!

    I hope to have my site up and contributing content to it consistently. I want it to offer it as an extension of the group i formed (YPWE.org). The site and programs will provide support to the whole woman and not just the career woman as YPWE does. It will be a place for women to “fill their cup”.

    So many time we give to everything and everyone around us forgetting that we too need support and love. I hope to be a place that can offer woman what they need and educate them of ways to keep them at their most inspired

    -Thank you for your words and hope
    Mandy

  36. Kristine Neeley on March 7, 2013 at 1:05 pm

    My book! And a subsequent movement/resources for women to LOVE and LIVE in their bodies with confidence and courage.

  37. Justin DeMutiis on March 7, 2013 at 1:40 pm

    I want to raise my sales average considerably, and as a result, shoot more film 🙂 The last few months, I’ve been working on streamlining and becoming more efficient… I’m getting there! Your goal setting posts have been incredible. They say you should start the day with something positive? I like to start with your website and blog! For a long time I only created business goals… Now I have created more personal goals than business goals, and I’ve been much happier! Thank you

  38. Maggie Apel on March 7, 2013 at 3:15 pm

    My old boss Kasey has the make it happen desk card. So I did. I now work for a non-profit and hopefully (fingers-crossed) we will also make it happen, with a little work and a lot of help from Jesus. Thanks for writing this. I am going to take to my girls and I think some great things are on the horizon!

  39. Rachel Fesko on March 7, 2013 at 3:50 pm

    Made the decision to stop shooting weddings on Sunday’s, and to drop all print advertising… because I feel the Lord told me to… no other reason. I’m scared to death that my business is going to suffer, but I know I have to walk in obedience. Did I mention I’m scared to death?

  40. Tabitha on March 7, 2013 at 3:59 pm

    Lara,
    You are amazing! If just one inch of your wisdom and grace could rub off on me I’d be so blessed! You inspire me to make things happen! Not just things but dreams! Your site is incredible and I just love the “what do you need today?” part of the site. So genius! Anyway, my stupid thing is to one day own my shop. Yup. Brick & Mortar. Selling gifts and goodies for nurseries and pretty craft rooms etc. I just love the idea of welcoming people into my space and letting them leave inspired to give! Thank you again Lara for all you have done for me. You may never know!

  41. daniel usenko on March 7, 2013 at 4:43 pm

    great post Lara

  42. Lindsay on March 7, 2013 at 5:21 pm

    Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for all of your inspiring posts, goal setting, encouraging words and most importantly just for being YOU! You’ve helped me see the light on exactly what I want. Now I’m just working on the courage part to be brave enough to quit the day job that I’m not too fond of and dive into what makes me come alive. Getting there… Thank you so much again!

  43. Kelly on March 7, 2013 at 8:24 pm

    I want to start being strong & smart enough to not feel the need to please EVERYONE.

  44. Danielle on March 7, 2013 at 8:36 pm

    This post came at a perfect time for me! Last month I was in a serious car accident that changed my life. I broke my knee and my hip, and although I will recover it will take awhile. I am unable to leave the house, work, or be able to do a lot of things by myself. I started going stir crazy with nothing to do all day- So I came up with a “stupid” idea- to start an online business to sell handmade cards. I have been working on getting everything ready- building a website, starting another blog, making and photographing items, etc. Through all of it though I have had this lurking sense of fear- fear that it won’t be successful- fear that people won’t respond well- or that I’ll put in all this work and not sell a single item. I have been praying lately for the courage to just make this thing happen. This post was very encouraging! And I will certainly heed the advice “done is better than perfect”- Great Post!

  45. Monika on March 7, 2013 at 9:22 pm

    I want to start my Etsy shop of fine art images. And write/illustrate a hilarious, witty children’s book. 🙂

  46. Sarah on March 8, 2013 at 12:42 am

    I want to start seriously writing my book. I’ve attempted it dozens of times, but never seriously started it with the intention, not just desire o finish.

  47. Darby Isham on March 8, 2013 at 2:20 am

    I want to start doing what I love: weddings, blogs, decorating, simplicity, and love.

  48. Marletha on March 8, 2013 at 3:12 am

    Lara, you are such an inspiration! I am so proud of you! Love you bunches! xoxo!

  49. Emily Ley on March 8, 2013 at 10:48 pm

    You are amazing. My grandma had a chicken named Henrietta!!! 🙂 She laid “prize winnin’ eggs!!” Love you and your heart so much. See you IN TWO DAYS!

  50. Style Sweets Magazine on March 9, 2013 at 3:54 pm

    Lara, once again you have inspired us. Thank you.

  51. Kelly H on March 11, 2013 at 3:13 pm

    My own business!!!!

  52. Katie O'Keefe on March 11, 2013 at 4:17 pm

    I have battled comparison many, mnay times and at different times in my life. You and the MTH ladies blogging about doing “what matters most” has completely changed my life. Perhaps not visualy or to others, but it has changed my heart and that is more important than any career success. Thank you 🙂

  53. Kate on March 11, 2013 at 5:09 pm

    i’m guilty of lurking here for inspiration but never commenting! 🙂 i will definitely check that book out, sounds fantastic…i think i need a little more time to find “my thing”….i waver between really wanting to be an event planner or really giving the photography thing a try (right now they are just things i like!) thanks for always posting such thought provoking posts!

  54. Kate on March 11, 2013 at 5:09 pm

    *waiver (woops!)

  55. Rosie on March 11, 2013 at 6:54 pm

    I’ve been a lurker too! Can’t even remember now ho w I found your site, but absolutely love it. I love meeting like-minded people and it’s a great reminder to me that the big dreams and life I live and desire to live are awesome and achievable. I draw so much inspiration from you and love the way you think 🙂 I plan to set my future business goals with the “get better” mindset instead of the “get bigger”! I think my favorite thing about reading your posts is the LOVE that pours out while I’m reading 🙂 Thanks, as always, for sharing.

  56. Kristy DeGraaf on March 12, 2013 at 4:49 am

    Love this! Oh how I wish I was joining you at MTH this week. But I am SO grateful for your inspiration you and Emily and Gena share so freely. You gals are amazing and I’m grateful I found you 🙂

  57. Julie Fioretti Hughes on March 14, 2013 at 1:43 pm

    I must admit I haven’t been on your blog in a while, but decided to come back and check it out for some inspiration. I love how every time I ready a post it was like it was written for me. What I love even more than that is how frank and to the point you are. “stop being so scared and DO IT! be happy! ” … So here I am, not lurking but being part of it 🙂

  58. Melissa on March 18, 2013 at 3:39 pm

    Thanks for sharing the ideas about business growth! I recently decided to streamline all my processes and systems. I like the idea of pre-stamping orders. Awesome tips!

    xoxo
    Melissa

  59. stephanie rita on March 20, 2013 at 3:35 pm

    Love this post, Lara. I definitely need to focus on streamlining because I finally went full time with my photography business. I can already see it growing (praise God!) but I want to make sure things are working as best as possible!
    Thanks for your good ideas and honesty!
    -Stephanie

  60. Ashlee Thurlow on March 21, 2013 at 5:51 pm

    Lara thank you for this! I definitely need to work on simplifying and streamlining my business. I have a lot of crazy ideas I want to start, a couple of kindle books (which I wrote the outline for 2 ideas after I read this post this morning! yay!) I want to help even more women in my coaching practice to find their purpose and then help them create a ripple effect of change around the world. But ultimately I want to do that to strengthen marriages and families, and to lower the divorce rate. Seriously. That is a crazy random dream God put on my heart as a TEENAGER! To lower the divorce rate…no idea how He’s going to bring that to pass but I know He will in some what, even if it’s small. And I’m totally okay with that! God bless you Lara!

    • christa jean on March 24, 2013 at 9:35 pm

      Ashlee…
      I. LOVE. YOUR. HEART! My hubby and I have a passion for the same, we love to see marriages thrive! Beautiful, God-given dream.

    • Petronella on March 25, 2013 at 2:27 pm

      Well said & so appropriate for me now. I’ve been striving for bigger, better & very quickly realizing that the foundation 9having everything automated, efficient, being centered) is the goal not having MORE. Thank you for sharing your lessons!

  61. Meagan on March 22, 2013 at 1:29 pm

    I want to start traveling. Its a desire that burns deep in my soul, I want to worship the Almighty from every continent & I don’t want to be 65 when I do it. I have an opportunity to take the leap this July & I’m scared. Scared to risk, scared to invest that kind of money, scared to ignore the naysayers (hubby included). I KNOW I’m meant to travel, I come alive doing it but man its hard to take that risk.

  62. Caroll on March 22, 2013 at 3:00 pm

    Hello Lara, stumbling across your website has been the best thing thats happened to me. Your words are so inspiring. I am an interior design graduate and have been without a job for a 1 yr. I keep thinking I studied the wrong thing, am I not good enough? I just moved to Raleigh and have been thinking of opening up a blog and start a site to sell jewelry and my paintings, and maybe then introduce my design skills. What’s stopping me? GOOD QUESTION….FEAR…

  63. christa jean on March 24, 2013 at 9:49 pm

    Lara, dear ~
    I just spent the last half an hour strolling through your site, and I have to say, it is one of THE most beautifully designed blogs I have ever seen! The colours, the layout, the pizazz, all gorgeous. And, what’s even more of note, is your genuine heart of love toward others in need of a purpose boost. Love it. Just love everything about it.

    I am inspired to dream again. I thought I had to set my dreams aside for a while (not all bad for a season) while I carry out this role of full-time, home schooling mommy to five. But, I see that not dreaming can also breed inactivity, purposelessness, and a case of the duldrums. Your words, “I kept thinking that ‘getting bigger’ was the goal. If that is your goal, ask yourself WHY.” have prompted much thought as I re-evaluate why I want more blog readers, IG followers, etc., is it all for “fame and fortune?” HA!
    Thanks a heap. You are a doll!

  64. Nici on April 2, 2013 at 6:03 pm

    I just found your website and thank you so much for such beautiful, heartfelt inspiration! I recently committed to focusing my energy toward a herbal fragrance endeavor as I love plants and fragrance. I’m just a baby but just the decision to commit to a passion has been liberating and feels like I’ve opened doors. I will come here for more and more inspiration and motivation. Peace!

  65. Nici on April 2, 2013 at 6:04 pm

    I provided an incorrect email in my comment. This is the correct one! Thanks again!

  66. Mindy on April 12, 2013 at 5:44 pm

    “get off facebook” love that. and so need it!

  67. Kristin on April 23, 2013 at 2:07 pm

    This is one of the most uplifting things I’ve read in a long time!! You always know what to write/how to write it to make it sink in. Figured out my big risk this morning (finally!!) and I am SO excited to take the next steps!!

  68. Mattye on May 9, 2013 at 3:10 pm

    In this post you wrote,”Don’t wait to start your big idea. Growth is scary because it can mean big life change, but isn’t that risk worth it for what you really want?? The timing will never be “perfect.” ” When I read these words, my eyes burned with tears of joy and conviction as my heart was wrenched with their truth. Lara, what is so beautiful about you reaching and stretching to pursue God’s purpose for your life is that in the process He is using YOU to get others to do the same thing. I know, because I am one of them! I love the creative way He uses the obedience and work of one child to send out little messages to impact another. Thank you for your boldness. I want to start a blog. I have for a long time because I have messages I think are worth sharing with the world. Want to know why I haven’t? Fear. Fear of more things than I could put in words here. But through a stronger f-word than fear, I am stepping out in Faith, kicking fear to the curb and going for it. Going for it because I know that He calls me to be obedient and use the gifts He has given me and He will take care of the rest of the story. My creative journey toward my blog has begun and when I write my first post I will share it with you- that’s accountability! Thank you for the gifts you give to the world! xoxo

  69. Brittney S on August 13, 2013 at 4:40 pm

    I want to start a branding company where women can discover their passions and be creative with their business. I also want to create a place where female entrepreneurs can get together and share ideas, where women are encouraged to be women. Not really sure what that looks like and where I am supposed to begin though! I am only 24 and sometimes it is a little intimidating to start something and to be confident in that. Knowing what steps to take is my biggest dilemma.

    Thanks so much for this blog post. You inspire me to think outside my way of thinking everyday!

  70. Emily Welch on August 13, 2013 at 5:02 pm

    I’m ready to take my stationery business to the next level. I’ve been putting it off for years as just a small hobby but now is the time. I’m attending the Stationery Academy, I started my Power Sheets last night and ordered my Simplified Planner today. It’s time to start now!

  71. Lauren on August 13, 2013 at 6:37 pm

    I want to have a shop, actual brick and mortar, with pretty things I love: paper, tabletop items for entertaining and most importantly baked goods from my mother and grandmothers recipes. (I have chills typing that. I’ve never actually written those words or said them aloud.)

  72. Jennie on August 13, 2013 at 6:39 pm

    I want to take the leap and travel with my family more! Take my passion for shelter pets to the next level and travel and share my knowledge and passion of shelter pet photography with them!

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