Desiree Wiercyski (Courtesy Photo)
In this week's "Entrepreneurship Spotlight," we are highlighting a new resident to our area who recently relocated from Oregon. Desiree Wiercyski is a life and business coach, a digital course creator and a podcaster. She describes her audience as "creative, driven and restless quarter-life women who are ready to own their future."
What made you decide to open a business in Fort Wayne/Northeast Indiana?
My business is primarily digital, but the growing start-up culture and arts scene in Fort Wayne allowed me to be confident in knowing that I’d be able to connect with other like-minded individuals outside of the Internet. In-person connections are essential for all business owners, even if you run a digital business.
What resource in the community has helped you thrive in the community?
I just moved here a few months ago from Portland, Oregon so am just starting to really get connected with the community here. That said, Fort Wayne has made it really easy!
1 Million Cups is a great opportunity to get outside of my own business-bubble, connect with other entrepreneurs, and see things in a different light. I also love the work that YLNI is doing and am excited to start getting involved.
What is the biggest challenge you have worked to overcome in starting your business?
Balance! The idea of work-life balance generally doesn’t resonate with me, I prefer the idea of work-life integration. But now, my office is in my home and it’s easy to just get sucked into 20 hour work days or realizing I haven’t left the house in days, because I’ve been so involved with building my business. I have to consistently remind myself to take a break and do something else.
What person has helped you the most in your journey?
Right when I knew I was going to start my own business, I tapped my husband to do all things related to graphic design. He’s also my editor and tech guy for the times I need another set of eyes. He’s always in the trenches with me, staying up to help until 2 or 3 am to make sure things get done. There’s no way I could do what I do without his help!
What is some advice you would have for new entrepreneurs?
Get really clear so you know without any hesitation what you want, and why you want it. That is what will keep you going when you just want to walk away.
Also, know that fear is normal, and that it’s okay. A lot of times in entrepreneurship, if you’re not scared or if you don’t feel a little crazy, you’re playing too small.
What would be the best thing Fort Wayne could do for entrepreneurs in your opinion?
Having just moved here a few months ago, it’s hard to have a well-rounded understanding of the entrepreneur culture.
But, one thing I would say is, if Fort Wayne wants to draw entrepreneurs from outside the city, then it’s important continue to focus on the future and not dwell on the past. I’ve had a lot of interactions with people where they act like I’m crazy for voluntarily moving here, perhaps because of their lingering perceptions from five to ten years ago. It’s clear the town is changing, so focus on that piece.
For more information on Desiree Wiercyski, please visit her website at desireew.com.
Her free podcast, The Sugar + Spikes Podcast is on iTunes.
