5 Tips for Launching Your Own Business or Side Hustle

So, you have a great idea and want to make it happen…how do you get started? Learn from Jenna McKenna, founder of “Frum Girl Problems” and marketing expert—she’s sharing her top tips for success.

1. Nail down your intentions.

It’s one thing to have an idea, but another to really refine your why. Ask yourself some questions to clarify your vision:

• Do you see a need and feel that you’re the best one to fill it?
• Has there been anything else like it before?
• If so, where did they go right and wrong?” 

“Use the answers to those to figure out your mission statement,” Jenna says. “There is a lot of humility and introspection that is needed before you begin.”

2. Look at similar initiatives.

Imitation is the best form of flattery, Jenna explains. “Of course, you don’t want to copy anyone else, but there’s nothing wrong with looking around at other Facebook groups or Instagram accounts to see what works and what doesn’t,” she shares. “I always recommend that to people before branding or re-branding.”

3. Expect adversity.

No new business is immune to criticism. Jenna has experienced her fair share with FGP and knows that when you’re sharing something with the world, you’ll probably get some feedback—and not all of that is going to be nice. Sometimes, they also might be right.

“Nobody is perfect,” she says. “Everybody makes mistakes, so you have to expect to fail sometimes. That’s how you figure out how to innovate. It’s not as personal as you may think.”

4. Step away when necessary.

In any business, you’re bound to have ups and downs, highs and lows, and moments of pure frustration. “I’m a huge believer in sleeping on it,” Jenna shares. “If I’m struggling, I’ll direct my attention to something else that brings me joy, like spending time with my husband or getting involved with a community project or going on a walk with a friend. Sometimes things can’t be fixed in the moment, and that’s okay; just step away from it and return to it with fresh eyes and a clear head.”

5. Remember Hashem is running the show.

Most importantly, know that you will do your hishtadlut (putting in effort), but ultimately, whether it pans out or not is from Hashem. “He is making the world run,” Jenna notes. “I always remind myself that the group would have zero members without Hashem’s guidance. Nothing will be successful if Hashem doesn’t want it to be and if it’s not good for the Jewish people.”

Missed Jenna’s story? Click here to catch up!