We recently connected with Candice Ellis and have shared our conversation below.

Candice, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

Being an entrepreneur can be exhilarating. There’s so much to look forward to…time freedom, limitless or even multiple streams of income, and the endless possibilities of opportunities and creativity. While being an entrepreneur or business owner for many people is a dream, to turn that dream into a profitable reality, you must be intentional about the execution. Not just live in the dream. There are principles I live by and steps I take to remain committed to my dream and make it a profitable reality. I manage each day using a calendar and task list. This helps me manage my time and organize my work. As an entrepreneur, there are so many unforeseen meetings, tasks, and even new ideas that come with each day. You want to ensure you stay on task but do not forgo important thoughts and opportunities. I also use my resources, such as “DND,” Timers, and programs such as Fiverr, when completing tasks. “Do Not Disturb” on my phone or devices help me create an environment of focus. Using a timer helps me respect and manage my time. Lastly, Fiverr allows me to outsource tasks so that the work gets done, even if not done by me. To me, in order to execute, I have to map out what the goal is and the steps that are necessary to complete the goal.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a proud mother of a vibrant teenager who doubles as my favorite travel partner. When we are not traveling to new countries, trying new foods, and exploring, we are enjoying the comforts of our home. I’m also very immersed in my community as a voice for other entrepreneurs, mental health, and personal development. I have won small business awards for the work I’ve done in social services. Additionally, I’ve made a name for myself as a go-to travel resource that curates’ enjoyable experiences domestically and internationally. Many inquire about what I enjoy in my “free time.” There isn’t much time that’s free on my calendar. But I’ve found that I truly enjoy what seems to be a chaotic schedule. While it looks like I am exceedingly busy and productive, I am driven by the purposeful things I am a part of. Each endeavor, from spending time with my loved ones to serving in the community and performing in my skill sets, gives me life and is exhilarating for me. Life is a journey that I am graciously exploring.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Surprisingly, I have been told that what I consider to be a fear of mine, is also my strength – connecting with people. I am honestly a very reserved person who keeps to herself. I do not feel the most comfortable being social, however, in my line of work, being social is a requirement. And while I could easily and most comfortably leave my marketing up to my website and social media, I would not be nearly as successful and as progressive. I intentionally participate in groups, cohorts, and mentorship programs and even become a board member to meet people who find value in the services I provide. But they cannot support or refer what they don’t know is out there. I put myself out there, sharing what I do, and when needed, promoting my business. In many cases, building relationships alone saves me the anxiety of having to promote myself, and others do it for me, out of appreciation of my work, experience in working with me or simply because of the connection we have.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

As a very organized person, who likes everything to be in its place, not just physically, but also on schedule, I had to learn to relax and be a bit more flexible. Some would say I am a bit OCD. I’m not even in denial and I felt it has gotten me pretty far and even has played a part in my success. Yet, while time management is one of the key elements to a successful business, there is a great need to make room for the unknown. Sometimes things come up that you simply didn’t anticipate. This can be the good things or the challenging things. I’ve had to unlearn being so rigid in my schedule and not feel unaccomplished or disappointed because the day didn’t go the way I planned. This was not an easy task and has taken quite a bit of time to adjust, but I’m glad I did. Days may be long sometimes, and some to-do items may carry over into the next day – but I’ve unlearned counting those moments as failures and embraced them as reflections of a growing business.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.coachcandice.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachcandicee/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoachCandiceE
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candiceaellis/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/mscandiceellis
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzYS6a3StUXPK8q_CCA-oKw

Image Credits
The headshot requires accreditation: Desireé L. Wells (Benton), DASH Collective, LLC. Or: Desireé L. Wells (*short version)