Debbi Sluys of Dare to Declare: Turning Vision Boards into Entrepreneurial Success

Please share a brief introduction about yourself and your business

We are the most joyful and intentional vision board company in the world.  I help ambitious entrepreneurs create a powerful vision to accelerate their impact and revenue.  I facilitate these experiences through online and in-person vision board sessions, utilizing my exclusive magazine and goal planner.  I also certify trainers through the Dare to Declare Vision Board Academy to use my proven plug-and-play process in their business.

Who are your customers?

Coaches and leaders

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

Early Years.  I was the Child Care Director of a not-for-profit, multi-site organization.

What made you take the leap to start your own business?

Too much bureaucracy and an inner nudge that I was meant for something bigger. 

Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

Yes, I ran my not-for-profit using creative business strategies.

Take us back to when you first launched your business; what was your marketing strategy to get the word out and did it go as planned?

I mainly focused on social media, and it failed.  When I returned to my early years communities and offered professional development using my new knowledge, those workshops became a source of cash flow to grow my vision board business.

What is the biggest challenge you have encountered along the way so far and what have you learned from it?

My self-confidence.  My lesson was that I didn't need to partner with anyone to be successful.   I struggled with technology, and the fear of looking stupid held me back from creatively expanding.  My lesson was to teach myself and hire experts who would be patient with me.

What accomplishment are the most proud of to date in your business?

My Dare to Declare Vision Board Academy with fifty five graduates from five different countries using my vision board methodology in their practice.

Do you have any recent wins from the last year that you'd like to celebrate with our community?

Launching the Dare to Declare goal planner. Becoming a published author. Becoming a certified trainer of the Canfield Success Principles.  Launching the Manifestation Mentorship business membership.

What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

More guest appearances as a keynote speaker, vision board facilitator expert at conferences, hosting my own boutique Canadian Conference, and writing and publishing a book. 

What is your top productivity tip? 

Create a vision, set goals, and surround yourself with people who will hold you accountable for your non-negotiable habits in achieving them.

On the flip side, how do you avoid burnout?

Listen to your body, and take naps.

What is your approach to work-life balance / integration?

Set up your work schedule (calendar) to give you time for self-care.  Create a life you don't need a vacation from. 

What is one thing you wish you had known when you started your Entreprenista journey?

Grow your email list.

When hiring, what is your go-to interview question?

Please share any other hiring tips from your experience

What's your favourite way to be recognized for a job well done?

If you've raised capital for your business already, what are some of your best tips or lessons learned?

Pay attention to your numbers.  Not just money coming in but every expense going out.

Are you a Mamaprenista? If so, please share your best advice for simultaneously managing a business and a family

Grandma and wife.  I use my calendar to book out time.  Not the same I know.... I used to work full time with three children under the age of three and my answer would have been much different. 

What's the one app on your phone you absolutely cannot live without and why?

Facebook messenger as I receive a lot of DM's and connect with prospects and clients this way. 

What is your favorite business tool or solution and why?

Canva as I love the templates.

What advice do you have for aspiring Entreprenistas?

Trust your inner knowing and take the next step.  

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