AF322 - Celebrating 20 Years of Ecommerce - The Not-So-Secret Path To Success
Today, I want to take you on a journey, a journey that spans nine years of Mommy Income, and share some insights on entrepreneurship, imposter syndrome, and the importance of embracing the journey rather than focusing on the destination.
In this episode of the Amazon Files podcast, Kristin celebrates the nine-year anniversary of Mommy Income. She shares her journey as an entrepreneur, discussing the ups and downs, the importance of embracing change, and dealing with imposter syndrome. Kristin reflects on her 20 years of e-commerce experience, the growth of her audience, and the transformative power of small steps. She also talks about the challenges she faced, the importance of outsourcing, and the value of self-awareness. Kristin encourages listeners to expect obstacles, plan for their goals, and take care of their wellness. She ends the episode expressing gratitude to her listeners for their continued support.
The Birth of Mommy Income
Nine years ago, I started Mommy Income with the aim of providing insights and helping others with their Amazon businesses. I am incredibly grateful to those who have been with me throughout this journey. Today, I want to share how I got started and what it means for you, my listeners.
The Unpredictable Nature of Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship is unpredictable. There will always be changes and pivots along the way. The myth of a straight-line success story is just that - a myth. People often only see the highlight reels on social media, not the moments of despair and doubt that entrepreneurs experience. I admit, I've felt like an imposter at times. Imposter syndrome is a real and common experience for many entrepreneurs, fueled by the lies and doubts that we tell ourselves about our worthiness, capabilities, and qualifications.
Reflecting on the Journey
With 20 years of e-commerce experience and nine years of teaching and training, I've had my fair share of highs and lows. I remember the excitement of making my first sale and the joy of seeing my hard work pay off. It's important to look back and acknowledge how far we've come, regardless of the length of our journey.
The Power of Small Steps
In 2014, Mommy Income was born out of my desire to share my knowledge of selling online, particularly on Amazon. People started reaching out to me for advice and I realized I had a lot to offer. One of the most important decisions I made was transitioning to using a prep center for my inventory. Despite my initial hesitation, this decision allowed me to focus on creativity and product research, leading to significant growth.
The Importance of Teamwork
My mother has been a part of my business for over ten years, and together we form a strong team. I've learned the importance of relying on others and not trying to do everything alone. This realization led to more growth and success.
Embracing Change and Growth
Change and growth are natural parts of life. Major events like COVID-19 and 9/11 have shaped the way we view the world. I've learned to embrace these changes and use them as opportunities for growth.
Overcoming Obstacles
Obstacles and challenges are inevitable in e-commerce and entrepreneurship. However, most problems are solvable and defeat is optional. I've faced my own challenges with Amazon, such as listings being taken down and getting suspended. These experiences taught me the importance of pivoting and adapting.
The Joy of Entrepreneurship
Starting my own business gave me control over my time and schedule. I love the fast pace and interaction with people, but being a waitress was not aligned with my goals of being present for my family. I wanted to make money doing something I loved, so I became an entrepreneur.
Planning and Intentionality
Achieving goals requires planning and intentionality. It's important to have a strong "why" and set smart goals. Success comes with sacrifice, and everything comes at a cost. It's crucial to think about what you are willing to do to fulfill your desires and goals.
Taking Care of Yourself
Taking care of oneself and making time for wellness and wealth is essential. A quote that had a significant impact on me is, "If you don't make time for your wellness, you'll be forced to make time for your illness." This concept applies to both health and wealth.
Gratitude and Looking Forward
I am incredibly grateful to you, my listeners, for your support and for allowing me the privilege to speak into your lives every week on the podcast. I look forward to many more years of continuing to serve and support you. I raise a toast to many more years of Mommy Income and to your continued success.
Join me again next week for another episode of the Amazon Files podcast. Until then, keep embracing the journey and remember, you always have choices in your careers and businesses.
WATCH:
LISTEN:
"If you don't make time for your wellness, you'll be forced to make time for your illness." - Kristin Ostrander
TIMESTAMPS:
Reflection on Mommy Income's Journey [00:00:02]
Kristin reflects on the nine-year journey of Mommy Income, how it started, and what it means for listeners.
Imposter Syndrome and Entrepreneurial Journey [00:01:14]
Kristin discusses imposter syndrome, the ever-changing nature of entrepreneurship, and the myth of straight-line success stories.
The Lies of Imposter Syndrome [00:02:24]
Kristin talks about imposter syndrome, the lies it tells, and the fear of success and failure that comes with it.
Reflecting on the Journey [00:10:21]
Kristin reflects on the milestones and emotions experienced throughout her nine-year journey of teaching and podcasting.
The Power of Starting Over [00:15:03]
Kristin shares her personal experience of starting over after facing embezzlement, foreclosure, and financial setbacks, highlighting the opportunities that can arise from difficult times.
Embracing the Journey [00:18:22]
Kristin discusses the importance of looking back at past experiences, both positive and negative, to gain insights and learn from them, ultimately shaping personal growth and success.
The birth of Mommy Income [00:20:33]
Kristin reflects on the year 2014 when Mommy Income was born and how she started sharing her knowledge on selling online, specifically on Amazon.
Transition to using a prep center [00:21:39]
Kristin discusses the initial fear and resistance she had towards transitioning to using a prep center for her inventory, and how it ultimately lifted a weight off her shoulders and allowed her to focus on creativity.
Outsourcing prep and pack and ship [00:24:29]
Kristin talks about the game-changing decision to outsource all of their prep and pack and ship tasks to a prep center, which contributed to their business growth from six figures to seven figures.
The illusion of control [00:30:26]
Discussion on the illusion of control and the expectation of carrying the weight of the world.
Embracing change and learning from mistakes [00:31:27]
Importance of embracing change, learning from mistakes, and the role of challenges and obstacles in personal and professional growth.
The journey of entrepreneurship [00:32:40]
Reflection on the journey of entrepreneurship, including personal experiences, unexpected success, and the importance of embracing the present moment.
Reflection on the Journey [00:41:22]
Kristin reflects on her unexpected accomplishments, such as publishing a book, and discusses the steps she can take to shape her life in the next 20 years.
Embracing Obstacles [00:43:50]
Kristin emphasizes the inevitability of obstacles in entrepreneurship, particularly when selling on Amazon, and the importance of pivoting and adapting to challenges.
Self-Leadership and Responsibility [00:46:23]
Kristin discusses the responsibilities and decision-making that come with being an entrepreneur, and the need for self-awareness and knowing oneself in order to thrive in business.
Laying the Foundation [00:51:42]
Kristin discusses her motivation for starting her own business and the desire to have control over her schedule and be present for her family.
Being a Natural Entrepreneur [00:53:30]
Kristin reflects on her entrepreneurial nature and her preference for making wise choices and being in control of her own decisions.
Managing Resources and Making Mistakes [00:55:14]
Kristin emphasizes the importance of being a good steward of resources, such as time, money, and energy, and acknowledges that mistakes and losses are inevitable in business.
Planning and intentional goal-setting [01:02:29]
Kristin emphasizes the importance of careful planning and intentional goal-setting in business and personal life.
Motivation and hunger for success [01:03:50]
Kristin discusses the significance of being motivated and hungry for success, both in business and personal growth.
Making sacrifices and paying the price for success [01:04:51]
Kristin talks about the sacrifices and hard work required to achieve success and the importance of being willing to pay the price for one's goals.
Reflection on the Journey [01:12:52]
Kristin reflects on the nine-year journey of Mommy Income, expressing gratitude for the privilege of speaking into the lives of listeners and sharing her thoughts and encouragement.
Embracing the Journey [01:12:52]
Kristin emphasizes the importance of embracing the journey of entrepreneurship rather than focusing solely on the destination, and encourages listeners to show up for themselves and move towards success.
Continued Commitment [01:12:52]
Kristin expresses gratitude for the privilege of serving listeners and commits to continuing to help, inspire, and support them in their pursuit of success.
RELATED CONTENT LINKS
- FREE Masterclass: How to Confidently Start & Scale An Amazon Business
- JOIN MY LIST
- LEARN FROM ME
- Why Wholesale Bundles?
- Best Tools for FBA Sellers!
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