The energy budget.

Early stage founders: Have you adequately factored your energy into your new brand?

Starting a business is an exciting ride! The ideas flow, the possibilities are endless, and the energy is infectious. 

I’ve worked with dozens of founders, many meticulously plan their marketing budgets, understand their target market, costs of goods, and sales strategies…. All of which are essential building blocks for your new brand.

But too few consider their energy budget - the driving force behind their brand’s success over the next 5-10 years.

What is often overlooked is the fact you’ll be living and breathing your new venture. You’ll be the one showing up at events, pitching to stockists, selling the product, and managing your energy through the highs and lows of startup life. 

It’s a challenging road ahead!

So, here’s my advice: design a brand that actually fuels you.

Don’t be afraid to align your brand with a personal passion. Find a way to sprinkle enough personal interest - whether it's adventure sports, a specific fashion style, or a particular cause - to help keep your own fire burning.

If you can give yourself more chance of showing up with genuine enthusiasm, and your brand speaks to an audience you care about, your energy is more likely to stay high… 

Remember, when you're building a brand, you're also setting up a business you’ll be running for years to come. You’ll be the first employee! 

So make sure you create a brand you WANT to work for every day! 

Make it something you’re unbelievably proud of, something that ultimately excites you.

This is more than how you look, or appeal to customers - it’s about making a strong connection to a set of values you believe in.

If you can find the sweet spot, and combine both stunning visuals with a strong set of values you’ll:

- Attract people who are as passionate about your mission as you are.

- Open doors and make your sales and marketing job 10x easier.

- And ultimately, give you the stamina to push through the tough times.

So don’t feel like you need to make it ALL about the customer (obviously they’re still pretty important 😅 ) but also consider your how much energy you’re going to be throwing into your new venture - this is something you’ll have to live with for the next decade!

Go nuts!

CJ