A growing number of people have decided they don’t want to work a traditional job for someone else when they can start a business and work for themselves instead. However, with an increase in people resigning from their traditional positions to work for themselves, some realize that the entrepreneurial life comes with its share of obstacles and isn’t as easy as it might look.
Mark Minard, a successful entrepreneur and best-selling author with a podcast, Elevating Beyond, knows what it’s like to feel like your dreams are out of reach but insists that determination and a willingness to work hard while becoming a better leader will help those who want to succeed in business. As someone who has experienced many ups and downs throughout the journey, he shares his advice with others in hopes of proving that anyone can have a high-earning business if they’re willing to take action.
Before the start of the business he’s operated for the past 15 years, Dreamshine, he’d spent time wondering what he would do after ending up in jail while only 17 years old. When people doubted he’d make it in life or ever become a business owner, Mark felt determined to prove them wrong while taking his passion for helping people to the next level. After brainstorming some ideas with his sister, Amy, the two came up with the idea for Dreamshine, which provides services to developmentally disabled adults.
“Starting a business to help special needs adults improve their lives was important to me. I knew that I had a passion for helping people, and I wanted to make a difference in the lives of those who could use the extra support with programs structured specifically for them, which is when the business started,” says Mark. “Of course, I didn’t know what would come of the business, especially since we were opening at the height of the recession. However, we managed to turn it into a success and have continued to thrive all these years.”
His genuine love for helping people in need, combined with his excellent leadership skills, has allowed Mark Minard to build a business from the ground up that serves the community and makes a notable difference. And now, he wants to help other people while leading by example.
“My advice to entrepreneurial hopefuls is to make sure you’re doing what you love. If you love what you do, you’re not going to get tired of it, and you’re more willing to put your all into it. But, you’re also going to need to focus on being a leader while overcoming adversity and tackling any challenges that come your way,” shares Mark. “If you remain inspired and have the right mindset, you can accomplish anything in life. Even if you feel like you’ve hit rock bottom, you can pick yourself up and pave the way for a brighter, happier future.”
In addition to owning and operating Dreamshine, Mark Minard is a best-selling author of 16 Reasons Why Your Business Sucks and the host of Elevating Beyond, where he shares additional tips and pointers to help others reach their most tremendous potential.
