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Surviving and Thriving in Small Business: A Spotlight on Kelly Johnson Photography

When Kelly Johnson, the talented photographer behind Kelly Johnson Photography, opened the doors of her new studio in Manheim, PA, in spring of 2022, we were thrilled to be her first clients on that very first morning her studio was open in the new space.

Carefully designed to reflect her warm, artistic spirit, Kelly instantly set the stage for a unique experience with a personalized message she had prepared at her studio entrance as we entered.

Kelly's skill and eye for detail were immediately evident, especially in the stunning portrait she captured of my wife, Sarah, and me—a photo we’re honored to share with you in this article.

Opening a new studio is a bold move in any economy, but doing so amid current economic uncertainty showed incredible courage and foresight on Kelly's part.

A Harsh Reality: Is The Risk Worth The Cost?

The reality is daunting: half of all new businesses fail within their first five years, and of those that survive, another fifty percent close in the next five. Kelly’s decision to expand her studio was a testament not only to her confidence and talent but also to her willingness to forge her own path in a challenging business landscape.

In our online course, “Survive and Thrive In Your Own Business,” we highlight essential takeaways for entrepreneurs who want to break free from common pitfalls:

1. Dispelling the Myths of Ownership:

Many aspiring business owners hold onto outdated ideas about “doing it all themselves” or “flying solo” to achieve success. Kelly’s journey shows the power of calculated risk and delegation, traits of true entrepreneurship.

2. Pay Yourself First!

Kelly’s studio embodies the idea that investing in oneself and one’s brand is vital. Too many entrepreneurs put themselves last, reinvesting endlessly without personal reward. By opening her studio, Kelly has demonstrated a commitment to long-term growth that doesn’t come at the cost of her own well-being.

3. Understanding Passive/Diversified Income:

Owning a photography business can be labor-intensive, but savvy business owners diversify revenue streams, such as by selling prints or offering virtual consultations. Kelly’s expanded studio gives her room to do more than ever before, creating potential opportunities for passive income that will support her growth.

"Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

Let me hear from you.

A New Breed Of Entrepreneurship:

Kelly Johnson Photography exemplifies a new generation of businesses where creativity, resilience, and smart strategy intersect. Kelly’s success story is an inspiring reminder that, despite the odds, those who adapt, invest wisely, and build purposefully can thrive in their own business! Thank you, Kelly, for all you do to inspire us and countless other entrepreneurs just like Sarah and I.

This excerpt is taken from the seminar Survive and Thrive In Your Own Business. We encourage you to click here to watch the seminar, available on demand at Romeo Network Online Learning.