Entrepreneurship has evolved. With the advancements of technology, entrepreneurship has also advanced and evolved. Maggie Schlarb is a business coach, entrepreneur and global Joy of Business facilitator. In 2014, Maggie cycled for 5 months around the mountainous roads of New Zealand, towing her two-year-old son the entire way. This journey transformed her views on entrepreneurism and helped her understand that businesses are more likely to grow and succeed if they are approached with a sense of adventure. We had the chance to speak with Maggie to learn about her, her business and the affect of her journey.
What's your story? (Why did you start your business?)
I started a business because it was torture to work for someone else! I had the pleasure of being home with my son for first few years of his life, then I had to get a job to make ends meet as our family lifestyle had changed. This job that I had, became boring very quickly and also included a boss that was not very kind. Being bored and in a not so positive environment was huge motivation to create a business that inspired me and also worked for my family life.
I was able to quit that job and headed out on a three month camper van adventure through Europe with my family while I started my first business. . As we travelled through Europe I was soul-searching daily as to what I was good at and could create a business from. My first website and business was born inside the common area of a campsite just outside Courmayeur, Italy. I remember spending the days playing and sneaking off at night to craft my website and would come back to the camper at night hardly able to sleep due to all the excitement.
What is your background and how has that helped you with your business.
My background begins in Fitness and Lifestyle Management followed by a Degree in Physical Education. I always thought I would be a teacher, I just didn’t realize it would be outside of the typical classroom. I have spent many, many hours studying the ins and outs of online business that lead me to being a global coordinator for one business and then stepping into my own business facilitating others in business and with bodies as well.
Tell us about your business and what you do.
My business is about creating greater in the world! What does that mean? Specifically the Joy of Business classes that I facilitate are about thinking outside the box to create businesses that thrive in so many ways. My belief is that the purpose of business is to have fun. Sure, business can be intense at times, challenging too AND when it comes down to the bottom line, business and life is about having fun and enjoying the adventure. I am all about pragmatics…doing what works and doing it in a way that lights you up.
Tell us about your 5 month journey.
My five month journey cycle touring New Zealand was nothing short of adventure. We began our adventure in Christchurch where my mothers’ best friend dropped us off at our starting point and then we circumnavigated the south island of New Zealand on our bikes. It was such an incredible experience to pull my two year old son behind me in a buggy, while expediting the thrill of the cycling journey.
What connection does adventure and entrepreneurism have?
The connection between adventure and entrepreneurism is the drive to do what most will not do. You have to be willing to do whatever it takes to get to the destination or target you are working towards. In both adventure and entrepreneurism, you are the source to create the greatest end result. What will you choose?
What are the qualities needed for both adventure and business?
The qualities that are needed for both business and adventure are:
- Curiosity: Foster an insatiable desire to explore and a yearning to discover what’s around the next corner
- A heightened awareness of your environment and where to be, when: Rather than trying to control the environment, be ‘in the flow’. Be aware of the environment and follow your instincts on how and when to act
- Have a concept of where you’re going, but be flexible: Allow for spontaneous stopovers and detours – these unexpected turn of events can lead to the greatest opportunities
- Self-empowerment: When things get challenging, remember – you chose this
- Determination and a willingness to achieve your vision: Every challenge is a gift in disguise and opens up more possibilities, if you’re willing to see them
- Engaging your body, daily: Moving your body helps with mental focus; it releases pent up stress and energizes, and creates a greater sense of mindfulness
What were some pieces of advice that you have for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners?
KEEP GOING!!! You have to be the one to keep the fire lit, as nobody is going to do it for you. If you believe you can do something, you can. Stay curious, let go of the outcome, and do your best every. single. day.!!