We were lucky to catch up with Anza Goodbar recently and have shared our conversation below.

Anza, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think it takes to be successful?

In the world of entrepreneurship, adaptability is key to success. Embracing a dynamic approach to business means being open to reinvention. As an entrepreneur, I firmly believe that staying relevant requires a continuous willingness to pivot, especially in the face of changing market dynamics. The cautionary tale of once-giant companies like Sears and Roebuck serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of clinging too tightly to outdated business models. In the rapidly evolving business landscape, those who fail to adapt risk becoming obsolete.

My own entrepreneurial journey mirrors this ethos of adaptability. In 2008, I was at the helm of a boutique mortgage company catering to the subprime credit market. However, when the market underwent a seismic shift, we found ourselves struggling to compete in the increasingly challenging landscape of A paper lenders. This pivotal moment compelled me to reevaluate and reinvent my business strategy.

It was through this experience that I delved into the realm of online business, learning a valuable lesson about the importance of staying attuned to market dynamics. While economic factors may be beyond our control, we, as entrepreneurs, possess the power to shape how these factors impact our business decisions. Navigating change with a proactive and adaptable mindset has been instrumental in my entrepreneurial journey, reinforcing the notion that success lies not just in business acumen but also in the ability to evolve with the ever-changing market.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

At Anza Goodbar Consulting and Bankable Events, our mission revolves around serving small business owners, stemming from a profound understanding born out of personal experiences. Having weathered the storm of catastrophic failure in my mortgage business, I embarked on a journey to empower small business owners with the essential tools and insights necessary for the sustenance and success of their ventures.

As we celebrate two decades of entrepreneurship this year, one of our greatest joys is witnessing the positive impact our services have had on small business owners. Through the Anza Goodbar and Bankable Events umbrella, we’ve been instrumental in providing tailored solutions to the myriad challenges faced by entrepreneurs. Whether it’s crafting a robust business plan or formulating strategies to enhance visibility, our comprehensive approach ensures that small business owners have the support they need.

Drawing from personal experiences of owning more than seven businesses across various industries, we take pride in our unique ability to guide small business owners through the hurdles of scaling and maintaining a healthy work-life rhythm. At Anza Goodbar Consulting and Bankable Events, our commitment lies in fostering the growth and resilience of small businesses, contributing to their longevity and prosperity in the ever-evolving entrepreneurial landscape.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

In the face of the unprecedented challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, my business took a hit, triggering a need for reinvention. This situation echoed back to my experiences in the mortgage industry, where a market shift, beyond my control, had led to significant setbacks for my business.

Reflecting on those earlier challenges, I saw an opportunity for transformation. Drawing on my past experiences and leveraging my skills, I made a strategic pivot into the online business realm, successfully establishing a six-figure enterprise within just 90 days. Recognizing the impact of the pandemic on women who either lost their jobs or had to make sacrifices for their families, I felt compelled to channel my expertise into a solution.

In response to this need, I created a group coaching program specifically tailored for women. The program is designed to empower them to build fulfilling careers aligned with their passions while accommodating the demands of their family life. By offering support and guidance, my aim was to help these women not only weather the challenges of the present but also emerge stronger and more resilient in the entrepreneurial landscape.

I still offer my 12 week business acceleration boot camp for women who want to start a business quickly but don’t know how to get started. It’s been one of my most rewarding programs.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

The most significant lesson I’ve had to unlearn on my entrepreneurial journey is the belief that I have to handle everything on my own. Growing up, I witnessed my parents, who were also business owners, putting in endless hours to ensure the success of their ventures. It became ingrained in me that taking on every task was a mark of dedication and accomplishment.

However, when I ventured into entrepreneurship, reality hit hard. Juggling the roles of a single mom with four kids while attempting to wear all the hats required for a thriving business proved overwhelming. Burnout quickly became a tangible reality, highlighting the impracticality of trying to excel at every aspect.

In a pivotal moment, I recognized the need for a shift in approach. Instead of spreading myself thin, I made the conscious decision to focus on excelling in areas where my strengths shone brightest. Delegating tasks that I either didn’t enjoy or only performed at an acceptable level turned out to be a game-changer. Not only did this decision lead to increased personal happiness, but it also freed up substantial energy, allowing me to invest more passionately in the aspects of my business that truly propel its growth. This shift in perspective from doing it all to prioritizing excellence has been instrumental in achieving a healthier work-life balance and sustained business success.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.anzagoodbar.com
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/anzagoodbar