In the middle of exporting video files and copying vcds, I got a chance to browse my old journal. I am amazed to have read my ranting about my regular job, and how I wanted to be free and to go freelance. That was a few months back.
Looking back makes me appreciate what I have at present. Well, there have been a lot of moments that I feel so down, lost and empty. But when I come to realize my achievements, it makes me feel proud and more challenged to climb a higher ladder.
I have acquired a business at the early age of 23. Vitalstrats, now seven months old, have come as far as having an office unit where we could accommodate our clients. Now we can take on projects that require the clients to stay on while it’s progressing, such as video editing accounts, and projects that require computer viewing. Before, we used to have my small room as our office area. One time we had to rush a project and the client had to give instructions in front of my computer. I had no choice but to let him inside my cramped and messy room! Imagine the mess – scattered clothes, unmade bed, books on the floor, clothes everywhere! I am so thankful we have an office now!
Another turning point for me as entrepreneurs is the experience of hiring our first employee -- our messenger and housekeeper, Arthur. At first, we were faced with the dilemma of losing track of our cash flow since hiring extra manpower would mean more expenses. It also means more pressure to get regular projects. But thank god, we were not mistaken. In fact we even became more productive. Instead of my partner and me having to go out most of the time to deliver big rolls of tarpaulin banners, or pick up a single file in Makati, we were able to use up our executive time in being more productive in our fields of specializations. My partner gets to focus more on accounts, admin and correspondences, while I get to focus my energies on conceptualizing and implementing designs for our projects.
We’ve come as far as having a project aired on national television, and we’re proud to say that those projects came in because of goodwill. From doing 1 pro-bono editing project, referrals came in and projects were non-stop. That’s an indication that they like our work. We haven’t even started marketing. All the projects came from direct referrals and repeat businesses.
We’re on the stage of considering to hire help for our admin and accounts. We’ll be starting to market our services to upgrade our market reach. Hopefully, we’ll get to expand soon in terms of equipment and human resource. I am now dreaming of a power book for myself, so I can bring it to client presentations and I can edit videos anywhere. I’ll pass on the Power Mac G5 to our future in-house Art Director. (Sigh!) It’s always nice to dream… And all I’ve got to do is follow where my heart beats. Before I know it, a wish from the past has come true.
I know that I will only fail if I let myself. And so I live everyday as a challenge. Other aspects of my life may pull me down the drain, but this endeavor, this path, and my goal to achieve my dreams will always be my inspiration.
