Creatives Guide Book

Category: Lifestyle

  • How to Know What Business to Start | 6 Steps to Find the Right Business Idea

    How to Know What Business to Start | 6 Steps to Find the Right Business Idea

    Starting a business is one of the most exciting yet overwhelming decisions you can make. With so many opportunities available today, to name a few: online businesses, service-based companies, and product brands, and probably thousands more...it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. If you’ve been asking yourself, “How do I know what business to start?”, you’re not alone. Before starting my creative studio agency, I considered some of these things, but man, do I wish I had taken extra time to consider them all.

    This guide will walk you through the key steps to discover the right business idea for you, based on your skills, passions, and market demand.

    This post is all about how to know what business to start.

    Get your pen and paper ready to take down some helpful notes! Let's do it.

     

    Warm yellow representing possibility, insight, and new beginnings

    How to Know What Business to Start | 6 Steps to Find the Right Business Idea

     

    1. Identify Your Strengths and Passions

    When I first thought of what I was going to offer for my first ever business, I immediately thought of all the things I was already good at naturally and how to monetize them. The best businesses often grow from what you already enjoy or excel at.

    Ask yourself:

    • What skills do I have that people value?

    • What activities make me feel energized rather than drained?

    • What problems do I naturally know how to solve?

    Creatives Guidebook Tip: Write down your top 5 skills and interests. You’ll notice patterns that point to potential business ideas.

    2. Research Market Demand

    A business idea only works if people are willing to pay for it. Do some quick research:

    • Use Google Trends and various social media platforms to see what’s gaining popularity.

    • Explore keyword research tools like SEMRush to learn what people are searching for online.

    • Most importantly: Check competitor websites and social media to see what services or products are performing well.

    This will help you avoid starting a business that has little or no demand.

    3. Solve a Real Problem

    The most successful businesses solve problems.

    Think about:

    • What challenges do people in your community or industry face?

    • How could your skills or products make their lives easier?

    • Is there a gap in the market where you can stand out?

    When your business provides a clear solution for how you can serve others, it becomes much easier to attract and keep customers.

    4. Consider Your Lifestyle and Goals

    Not all businesses fit every lifestyle.

    For example:

    • If you want freedom to travel, an online business might be best.

    • If you enjoy face-to-face work, a local service business could be a good fit.

    • If you want long-term growth, you may consider e-commerce or tech solutions.

    Your personal goals should shape the business you start.

    5. Test Before You Commit

    You don’t need to invest thousands of dollars right away. I got my business up and running with loads of free trials and platforms.

    Test your idea first:

    • Offer your service to a few clients at a discount.

    • Create a small batch of products and sell them locally or online.

    • Build a simple website or landing page to measure interest.

    Creatives Guidebook Tip: Use free or low-cost platforms like Canva, Etsy, Shopify Starter, or Gumroad to test your ideas quickly.

    6. Learn From Others

    Look at entrepreneurs who inspire you. Study how they started, what challenges they faced, and how they grew. Books, podcasts, and online communities can give you valuable insight into how to avoid common mistakes.

    Some great resources:

    • The Lean Startup by Eric Ries

    • How I Built This podcast

    • (My absolute favorite!) Online communities like Reddit’s r/Entrepreneur

    Final Thoughts

    Knowing what business to start doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on your strengths, research the market, solve real problems, and test your ideas. When I freelanced, I hit a lot of walls because I didn't stop to consider these foundational things first. The right business is one that not only makes money but also aligns with your passions and lifestyle goals, so always consider them in every action you take or decision you make!

    Remember: every successful entrepreneur started where you are now with just an idea. The difference is they took action.

    I am writing this blog post today because of a promise I made to myself to really commit to doing what I love and following through with action to back it up. I hope these steps help you do the same. You're doing great!

    When you're ready to take the next step...

    Figuring out what business to start is just the beginning. To turn your idea into a clear, confident, and compelling brand, you need the right tools.

    Our Brand Clarity Guide will help you pinpoint your unique strengths, passions, and values so you can choose a business that truly fits you. Once you’ve got your direction, the Brand Identity Workbook walks you step by step through creating a cohesive brand that attracts your ideal audience.

    Till next time!

    This post was all about how to know what business to start.

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  • Creating Your Personal Brand | A Complete Guide to Standing Out Authentically

    Creating Your Personal Brand | A Complete Guide to Standing Out Authentically

    The idea of creating your personal brand can feel intimidating, right? You might be thinking, “Where do I even start?” or “What if I don’t get it right?” And if you’ve spent any time scrolling online, it looks like everyone else already has their brand figured out—the polished visuals, the signature voice, the consistent message. It almost feels effortless for them.

    But here’s the truth I wish I knew when I first started: there is no such thing as an effortless personal brand.

    What you’re really seeing is strategy, consistency, and clarity in action. A personal brand isn’t just about showing up online; it’s about defining who you are, what you stand for, and how you want to be remembered. It’s not a logo, not a color palette, not even a perfectly curated feed. It’s the story you’re telling every time someone interacts with you.

    When I first started working on my own personal brand, I thought I had to create some new, “ideal” version of myself. But the truth is, your brand already exists—it’s about pulling out what’s authentic and shaping it with intention so others can recognize it too.

    If you’ve been researching endlessly, looking for shortcuts or quick fixes, here’s your reminder: building a personal brand takes clarity, courage, and consistency. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being intentional.

    In this post, we’ll walk through what it really means to create your personal brand, how to approach it step by step, and why it matters now more than ever.

    By the end, you’ll feel more confident about building a brand that not only represents you but also opens doors to opportunities aligned with your goals.

    This post is all about creating your personal brand.

     

     

    Creating Your Personal Brand | A Complete Guide to Standing Out Authentically

     

    Color rosewood symbolizing individuality and artistic self-expression.

    Why Creating Your Personal Brand Matters

    We live in a time where visibility and identity are everything. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, student, or professional, people want to know not just what you do but who you are.

    A strong personal brand gives you:

    • Clarity about your goals and direction.

    • Recognition in your field, so you’re not just another face in the crowd.

    • Trust with your audience, clients, or employers.

    • Opportunities that align with your values and strengths.

    Think of personal branding as reputation with strategy. It’s the difference between letting people make random assumptions about you versus intentionally shaping how you want to be known.

    Without a personal brand, you blend in. With one, you stand out.

     If you’re not sure where to begin, we created a Free Brand Clarity Guide at Stu Creatives. It walks you through the exact questions you need to answer to start shaping your personal brand with intention.

    Step 1: Define Your Identity

    The foundation of creating your personal brand is clarity. Before you create content or design anything, ask yourself:

    • Who am I? (strengths, values, passions, unique perspective)

    • What do I stand for? (principles, beliefs, mission)

    • What do I want to be known for? (expertise, impact, contribution)

    This stage is about pulling your authentic self into focus. For example, maybe you’re a marketing professional who values creativity, data-driven strategy, and community impact ( Like me). Or maybe you’re a wellness coach passionate about helping busy women find balance.

    The clearer you are about yourself, the easier it is for others to understand and connect with your brand.

    Pro tip: Write a personal brand statement. One sentence that sums up who you are, what you do, and the value you bring. Example: “I help creative entrepreneurs build brands that align with their vision and attract their dream audience.”

    If you’re struggling to piece this together, our Brand Identity Workbook was created to simplify this process. It guides you step by step through defining your vision, personality, and style so you’re not just guessing—you’re building a foundation that lasts.

    Step 2: Shape Your Message

    Once you know who you are, the next step in creating your personal brand is deciding how to communicate it.

    Your message is the bridge between you and your audience. It includes:

    • Your tone of voice (Are you formal, casual, inspiring, bold?)

    • Your core story (Why do you do what you do?)

    • Your key themes (What topics or values do you consistently speak about?)

    When your message is clear, people know what to expect from you. They know your perspective, and they begin to associate you with specific ideas or solutions.

    Example: If you’re a designer, your message might highlight innovation, simplicity, and creativity. If you’re in finance, maybe your message is about clarity, empowerment, and growth.

    Consistency here matters. The more you reinforce your message, the more memorable your brand becomes.

    Step 3: Build Your Presence

    Your presence is how your personal brand shows up in the world. In today’s landscape, this often means online, but it also includes how you present yourself in real life.

    Key elements of presence include:

    • Visual Identity: colors, fonts, photography style, and overall look.

    • Online Platforms: your website, social media, portfolio, or blog.

    • First Impressions: how you introduce yourself, network, and engage.

    But here’s the thing: you don’t need to be everywhere. Choose platforms that align with your goals. If you’re a visual creative, Instagram and Pinterest might be essential. If you’re a thought leader, LinkedIn or Medium could be better suited.

    Think of your presence as your digital handshake—it tells people who you are before you even speak.

    Step 4: Create Valuable Content

    In the process of creating your personal brand, content is where your identity and message come alive.

    Content builds trust, demonstrates expertise, and helps people connect with your personality. Depending on your goals, your content could include:

    • Blog posts (sharing insights, guides, or opinions)

    • Videos (tutorials, storytelling, behind-the-scenes)

    • Social media posts (inspiration, education, engagement)

    • Podcasts (deep conversations, niche expertise)

    • Newsletters (personal updates, curated advice)

    The key is value. What are you giving your audience that helps, inspires, or resonates with them?

    When people consistently see value from you, they begin to associate your brand with solutions, not just noise.

    Step 5: Stay Consistent and Evolve

    My favorite step of all because it is also the most challenging for us, but the most powerful brands aren’t built overnight. They grow through repetition, refinement, and evolution.

    Consistency creates trust. It tells people you’re reliable, and it makes your message stick. This doesn’t mean you can’t experiment or evolve—because you absolutely should. It means you’re showing up with a recognizable identity, even as you grow.

    Here’s the balance:

    • Consistency builds recognition.

    • Evolution keeps your brand alive and relevant.

    Think of it like music artists. They maintain a recognizable style but evolve with each album. Your personal brand works the same way.

    Common Myths About Creating Your Personal Brand

    Before we wrap up, let’s clear a few myths:

    • Myth #1: You need to be perfect.
      The BIGGEST MYTH OF ALL that kept me from creating. Guess what? Your audience connects with authenticity, not perfection.

    • Myth #2: It’s just about visuals.
      Design matters, but it's your message and identity that create depth.

    • Myth #3: It’s only for entrepreneurs or influencers.
      Everyone has a personal brand (and I mean EVERYONE.) Even employees, students, and leaders.

    • Myth #4: You can copy someone else’s strategy.
      Inspiration is fine, but your brand has to reflect you; it should not be a carbon copy of someone else.

    Why Now Is the Time to Start

    Creating your personal brand isn’t just a trend it’s a necessity in today’s digital-first world. People are Googling you before they meet you. Employers are checking your LinkedIn before they call you. Clients are scrolling your feed before they book you.

    If you don’t shape your brand, others will shape it for you.

    Starting now gives you the chance to take control of your narrative, attract the right opportunities, and build a presence that aligns with your future.

    And if you’re ready to take the first step, download our Free Brand Clarity Guide from Stu Creatives. It’s designed to help you get the clarity you need to stop second-guessing yourself and start building with confidence.

    Pair it with our Brand Identity Workbook, and you’ll have a roadmap that takes you from defining your vision to creating a personal brand you’re proud of.

    Creating your personal brand is about more than aesthetics. It’s about clarity, authenticity, and consistency. It’s about knowing who you are, shaping your message, building your presence, creating value, and staying true to your evolution.

    It may feel overwhelming at first, but remember your personal brand already exists. The process is simply bringing it into focus.

    By being intentional, you’ll not only stand out but also create a brand that feels fulfilling and sustainable. And that’s the ultimate goal.

    So, are you ready to start creating your personal brand? The journey begins now. Download your Free Brand Clarity Guide, grab the Brand Identity Workbook, and start building a brand that feels true to you.

    This post was all about creating your personal brand.

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  • The Rise Of The Multihyphenate Artist | Embracing the Power of Many Passions

    The Rise Of The Multihyphenate Artist | Embracing the Power of Many Passions

    In a world that now celebrates versatility, adaptability, and creativity, the rise of the multihyphenate artist is more than just a trend—it’s a movement.

    Have you ever felt torn between your passions, unsure of which career to pursue because all your interests seem equally compelling?

    As a multihyphenate myself, I know that feeling all too well. Picking just one path can feel limiting when you’re wired to do so many things. But what if I told you that you don’t have to choose?

    The concept of the multihyphenate artist has existed for decades, but only recently has it gained widespread recognition. We’re finally celebrating people who embody creativity in multiple forms—artists who write, design, build brands, make music, and create impact across industries.

     

    This blog post is all about the multihyphenate artist, the challenges that come with this journey, and some of the solutions that have been helping me along the way.

    deep indigo symbolizing depth, wisdom, and imagination.

     

    The Rise of the Multihyphenate Artist

    What Is a Multihyphenate Artist?

    By definition, a multihyphenate artist wears many creative hats, often straddling multiple fields of art, culture, and business. These individuals aren’t confined by the traditional boundaries of one profession. Instead, they embrace a broad spectrum of skills and talents, blending them into a cohesive identity that defies convention.

    They are the modern rebels of creativity—unapologetically diverse, curious, and limitless.

    Gone are the days when artists were told to “pick one thing” and stick to it. Today, we’re encouraged to explore our intersections: design meets writing, art meets business, storytelling meets strategy. Being multitalented is no longer a flaw—it’s a competitive advantage.

    My Journey to Embracing the Multihyphenate Path

    For years, I struggled with the insecurities that come with being “too many things.” I used to hide parts of myself just to fit into what I thought looked professional. I’d start projects and never finish them, pick majors that seemed more “stable,” and constantly second-guess what I wanted to do.

    I made myself small.

    It wasn’t until I faced my fears that I realized there was nothing wrong with being multitalented. I dropped out of engineering and pursued marketing—a field that allowed me to combine strategy, creativity, psychology, and storytelling.

    That decision changed everything.

    Once I stopped forcing myself into one box, I began to see my blend of interests not as confusion but as connection. My art, business sense, and writing weren’t competing with each other—they were working together to build something authentic.

    Now, as the founder of Stu Creatives, I use those same principles to help others design brands that reflect who they truly are.

    Challenge #1: Imposter Syndrome

    Even as multihyphenates gain visibility, many of us battle imposter syndrome. That constant voice that says, “You’re not an expert,” or “You’re doing too much.”

    But here’s the truth: no one becomes a master without curiosity. Curiosity is not confusion—it’s your superpower.

    Here’s how I’ve learned to overcome imposter syndrome:

    • Acknowledge the feelings, but don’t obey them. They’re just emotions, not facts.

    • Celebrate small wins. Each project, lesson, and collaboration counts.

    • Remember that nobody has it all figured out. Everyone’s learning as they go.

    • Shift your focus from perfection to progress. Practice doesn’t make perfect—it makes growth.

    • Reframe your thoughts. Instead of “I’m not good enough,” say, “I’m still learning.”

    • Own your unique value. No one has your exact combination of experiences and perspective.

    Keeping a success journal also helps. I write down every milestone, no matter how small. When doubt creeps in, I look back and see how far I’ve come.

    Challenge #2: Facing Judgment

    Let’s be honest—being different can make people uncomfortable. I’ve been judged for not sticking to one career path, for changing directions, and for not fitting into a neat category.

    But what I’ve learned is this: most criticism comes from misunderstanding. People who don’t see your vision can’t define your limits.

    Here’s how I navigate judgment:

    • Remember that your journey is yours. Their opinions are reflections of their comfort zones, not your truth.

    • Embrace your diversity. Your versatility is your edge, not your weakness.

    • Set boundaries with negativity. You don’t owe explanations to anyone.

    • Surround yourself with like-minded creatives. Community strengthens courage.

    • Focus on what you can control. Let your work speak for itself.

    The key is to celebrate your uniqueness. The more you embrace your complexity, the more magnetic your creativity becomes.

    Challenge #3: Time Management and Overwhelm

    If you’re passionate about multiple things, you’ve likely felt the weight of trying to juggle it all. Between projects, ideas, and responsibilities, burnout can sneak in fast.

    Here’s what helps me stay balanced:

    • Time-block your schedule. Dedicate specific windows to different creative focuses.

    • Learn to say no. Protect your time and energy—it’s your most valuable resource.

    • Take breaks. Creativity needs rest to thrive.

    • Delegate and collaborate. You don’t have to do everything alone.

    • Set realistic expectations. Progress is progress, even in small steps.

    I’m a mother and a student, so my time is sacred. I use Google Calendar religiously and give myself grace when life gets hectic.

    Challenge #4: Lack of Focus or Direction

    When you have a mind full of ideas, it’s easy to lose focus or jump from one thing to another. I’ve been there. The trick isn’t to suppress your curiosity—it’s to channel it.

    Here’s how I stay aligned:

    • Clarify your long-term vision. Ask yourself what impact you want to make.

    • Break goals into smaller tasks. Action creates clarity.

    • Use short-term deadlines. Structure helps creativity thrive.

    • Reflect regularly. I do weekly check-ins and vision boards to stay grounded.

    • Allow yourself to pivot. You’re allowed to change direction—it’s not failure, it’s evolution.

    When I feel lost, I revisit why I started. That always brings me back home.

    Challenge #5: Defining Your Personal Brand

    As multihyphenates, one of the hardest things to do is define your brand in a world that craves simplicity. But your diversity is your brand.

    Here’s how to define it:

    • Embrace your multifaceted nature. Every skill adds dimension to your story.

    • Identify recurring themes. What connects all your creative pursuits?

    • Tell your story. People connect with your “why” more than your title.

    • Start small and expand. Your brand can evolve over time.

    • Be authentic. Your truth is your strongest marketing tool.

    When I built Stu Creatives, I didn’t try to hide my many interests. I unified them under one theme: empowering creators to communicate their value clearly. That’s the heart of my brand—and it reflects everything I am.

    Final Thoughts

    Being a multihyphenate artist isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing what feels aligned.

    It’s about honoring all parts of yourself—the strategist, the designer, the dreamer, the doer—and allowing them to coexist harmoniously.

    Embracing your multifaceted identity isn’t always easy, but it’s deeply rewarding. The multihyphenate movement redefines what it means to be an artist, a creative, and a professional. It challenges the outdated idea that you must specialize to be successful.

    By embracing your diverse talents, you’re not just building a career—you’re building a legacy.

    So to every artist, creative, or dreamer who’s ever felt “too much” or “too different,” hear this:
    You are not scattered. You are expansive.

     

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  • 5 Essential business tips and tricks Every Creator Should Know

    5 Essential business tips and tricks Every Creator Should Know

    Need some business tips and tricks to make your goals more attainable? These are the trending strategies every creator should know this year that will help you get out of your head and spring into action.

    Starting your own business can feel overwhelming, but what do you really have to lose? If you’re anything like me, giving up isn’t an option when you want to live the life you’ve always imagined. It often seems like everyone with an online presence is effortlessly succeeding in their business, leaving you wondering: “So why can’t I?”

    I’m here to eliminate the “effortless” fantasy and share a secret I wish I knew when starting my journey: everything you plan to do requires immense intent and strategy. There are no shortcuts to building a business you’re passionate about. But with the right approach, clarity, and consistency, success is attainable.

    In this post, I’ll share 5 essential business tips and tricks that have personally helped me, from creating business plans to managing finances and building an online presence. These strategies will help you move from planning to taking actionable steps toward your authentic goals.

    Warm Taupe symbolizing empowerment

    5 Essential business tips and tricks Every Creator Should Know

    1. Tips for Creating Business Plans and Strategies

    How many of us jump straight into action the moment we feel inspired without clearly planning what we want to achieve? Guilty as charged! My journey as a creator didn’t truly begin when I booked my first client or made my first sale. It began when I realized that creativity alone isn’t enough. You also need a roadmap—a plan that outlines what you want to achieve and how you’ll get there.

    During my marketing and data analytics studies, I learned that strategic planning is essential for any business. A strong business plan serves as your roadmap to success, guiding your decisions and helping you stay focused.

    What is a Business Plan?

    A business plan is a 5–10 page outline that explains your business idea, your goals, and your strategies for success. Think of it as your personal map for growing your business.

    Why You Need One

    No matter if you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or small business owner, a business plan is essential. It helps you:

    • Clarify your vision

    • Identify and mitigate risks

    • Set realistic, achievable goals

    • Track business performance

    Tips for Creating a Simple Business Plan:

    • Keep it simple: Use a template to avoid overwhelm.

    • Define your business idea: What problem does your business solve, and who is your audience?

    • Set clear goals: Short-term and long-term goals provide direction and motivation.

    • Know your audience: Tailor your messaging to your target clients or investors.

    • Research competitors: Understand their strategies and identify opportunities to differentiate yourself.

    • Create a marketing strategy: Outline how you’ll attract clients both online and offline.

    • Plan your finances: Estimate start-up costs and consider financial management early.

    • Aim for clarity: Focus on the key points to convey your idea effectively.

    2. Small Business Tips and Tricks

    Learn All About Marketing

    Marketing is critical to the success of any business. When I noticed my own marketing knowledge gaps, I invested in courses to understand how marketing drives business growth. Even basic marketing knowledge can give you a competitive edge.

    Keep Learning

    Stay curious and continually expand your skillset. Learn about your industry, trends, and new tools to improve your business operations.

    Be Flexible

    Adaptability is crucial. If something isn’t working, pivot your strategy rather than sticking stubbornly to an ineffective plan.

    Be Patient

    Success doesn’t happen overnight. Treat setbacks as learning opportunities and focus on long-term growth rather than quick wins.

    3. Business Tips for Entrepreneurs

    Build a Strong Online Presence

    Your online presence establishes credibility. Create a professional website and engage on social media platforms to attract and retain your audience.

    Network Strategically

    Attend industry events, webinars, and meetups. Networking connects you with opportunities, collaborators, and mentors who can help your business grow.

    Surround Yourself With the Right People

    Create a team that shares your vision and complements your skills. Even if you’re solo now, consider future collaborations to support growth.

    Prioritize Work-Life Balance

    Entrepreneurship can be all-consuming. Protect your mental and physical health by managing your time effectively.

    Develop a Solid Financial and Marketing Management Plan

    If you don’t have the resources for a full team, take courses and research your industry to sharpen your skills. Over time, consider hiring professionals to manage finances, marketing, and operations.

    4. Financial Tips for Small Business Owners

    Create a Budget

    Separate your business finances from personal expenses. Track income, expenses, and profitability to make informed decisions. Tools like Excel or budgeting apps are great for this.

    Use Accounting Software

    Invest in accounting software to streamline bookkeeping, invoices, and record-keeping.

    Open a Business Bank Account

    Keep business finances separate to simplify tax filing and financial tracking.

    Stay Informed About Market Trends

    Keep up with economic shifts and industry trends. This awareness helps you make proactive business decisions.

    Invest in Technology

    E-commerce platforms, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, and productivity tools can improve efficiency and reduce long-term costs.

    Build an Emergency Fund

    Set aside 3–6 months of expenses to protect your business from unexpected challenges.

    5. Business Tips for Online Business Owners

    Optimize for Search Engines (SEO)

    Use keywords, meta descriptions, and fast-loading websites to improve your online visibility. SEO is crucial for attracting organic traffic.

    Leverage Email Marketing

    Build an email list and send authentic, personalized campaigns. Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to nurture clients and drive conversions.

    Focus on Customer Experience

    Listen to feedback, respond promptly, and continuously improve your products or services based on client input.

    Utilize Analytics

    Track website and social media analytics to understand customer behavior, measure results, and optimize strategies. Tools like Google Analytics are free and extremely valuable.

    Final Thoughts

    These 5 essential business tips and tricks are designed to help creators, entrepreneurs, and small business owners take actionable steps toward building a thriving business. By planning strategically, learning continuously, managing finances responsibly, and cultivating a strong online presence, you can transform your creative passion into a successful, sustainable business.

    Remember, there are no shortcuts to meaningful success. It takes intent, strategy, and consistent action. Start small, stay patient, and build momentum—your business journey is unique, and it’s yours to shape.

     

    Today's blog post was all about the 5  Essential Business tips and tricks every creator should know this year to spring into action in their creative endeavors.