Etsy Success Challenge: What’s Your Biggest Strength?

daniellexo

Would you guess that in my off-time I’m also drawn to hanging out with scrappy entrepreneurs? Most of my friends have Etsy shops, small businesses, or some kind of creative career and when we get together (especially if a few glasses of wine are involved) we end up spilling our guts about the difficulties of staying inspired, managing a mini-enterprise, and how the heck to file our taxes properly. I recently met up with a handful of my whip-smart friends and, before we headed down that path of frustration (and before we opened that bottle of wine), I said, “Let’s do something different tonight! Let’s go around the table and talk about the things we are great at.” This request was greeted with blinking eyes and silence; quite a feat for this group! But once we got started, the accomplishments and virtues started to flow. If one of us was stuck, someone else at the table would chirp up and remind them of their greatest strength.

I wanted to share this experience with the rest of you. There’s some aspect of running your small online business that you, too, are really, really good at. Do you ever acknowledge it?

So here’s the challenge, brainstorm a list of what you know you are doing right with your business. Ruminate on each strength and decide which three you are the best at.

Now, turn the page of your sketchbook and brainstorm how you can expand those skills/abilities/efforts. Get creative! Here are a few examples from the Etsy Success Team to get the wheels turning: 

Example by My Zoetrope

 

Example by FlourishandDebonair

Example by quiltish

elegantgirl.jpgnightowl.jpgdearpumpernickel.jpg
Click to zoom in on examples by BearStitches, elegantgirlnewhopebeading,

Ready to take on the challenge? Awesome! Be sure to share your homework by taking a photo or scanning your work, then blog about it or upload a photo to Flickr and share the link with us in the comments below.

The Seller Handbook | Sign up for the Etsy Success Newsletter

  • RomanceCatsAndWhimsy

    RomanceCatsAndWhimsy says:

    This was very inspiring and gave me some ideas. Thank you!!

    1 year ago

  • terrihvaught

    terrihvaught says:

    love this idea. Its even good to ask about other aspects of your life. Thanks

    1 year ago

  • LittleWrenPottery

    LittleWrenPottery says:

    Looks like a great exercise, I'll have to try this out myself. I love writing blog posts but I don't often do it for other people. Certainly something to think about! It's important to get motivated from positive life aspects rather than dwelling on the negative, its a great way to move forward.

    1 year ago

  • BarkingSandsVintage

    BarkingSandsVintage says:

    Such a good plan--focus on the positive!

    1 year ago

  • HoneysuckleLane

    HoneysuckleLane says:

    Wonderful idea, Danielle! When I read this, I sat and thought about what my strengths are and admit that I am still trying to decide. I could easily come up with weakness and things I should improve upon though. Thank you for always encouraging us to dig deeper and for sharing these great suggestions!

    1 year ago

  • DecadesOfVintage

    DecadesOfVintage says:

    Danielle, you always give us something to think about.

    1 year ago

  • ikabags

    ikabags says:

    Such a good planning and idea :))

    1 year ago

  • DecadesOfVintage

    DecadesOfVintage says:

    HoneysuckleLane, you are right, it is an exercise that focuses on digging deeper.

    1 year ago

  • SusanFaye

    SusanFaye says:

    ...Wow, thanks for the prompt! I spend way too much time thinking about what I'm doing wrong and this sounds like a much more positive the-glass-is-half-full approach!

    1 year ago

  • DailySip

    DailySip says:

    I love these illustrations! A good way to identify what you are doing well and what you need to do!

    1 year ago

  • ikabags

    ikabags says:

    Every morning I wake up new ideas , every night I am sleeping with them :) crazy i know but i will do it !

    1 year ago

  • JewelryByJLy

    JewelryByJLy says:

    Getting started on my brainstorming now! Thank you so much Danielle! You are always spot on with your wonderful advice!

    1 year ago

  • Numbers14

    Numbers14 says:

    great article

    1 year ago

  • Ryanplz

    Ryanplz says:

    those illustrations are wonderful! this is great, thanks for sharing!

    1 year ago

  • ikabags

    ikabags says:

    Monday I went Joan Baez concert in Paris and i cant believe she is 70 years old and she play her gitar more then two hours ! It was wonderful and I sad i can do it more things ! New ideas green life ,fresh life , positive energy !as always !

    1 year ago

  • Seymour

    Seymour says:

    Thanks for sharing, all really constructive helpful ideas to pin down each specific challenge.

    1 year ago

  • FairyBubbles

    FairyBubbles says:

    Thank you for reminding me to stop and focus, it was much needed at this time:) Great article.

    1 year ago

  • SimplyCutebyKarin

    SimplyCutebyKarin says:

    Ugh. I have such a hard time figuring out what I do well! Love the sketches!!

    1 year ago

  • accentonvintage

    accentonvintage says:

    Great article and food for thought! Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • EchoesOfSummer

    EchoesOfSummer says:

    Great constructive challenge, I have a pin board in my shop where I hang up things I want to remember or pics that keep me smiling through the day. This morning, my list will be taking center of the board. Thank you Danielle :)

    1 year ago

  • rebourne

    rebourne says:

    thank you for focusing on the now. sometimes i feel like i'm always trying to be somewhere else: with family, life stages, home situation, and my work. it's good to be reminded of our strengths and why now is so good.

    1 year ago

  • GloryBDesign

    GloryBDesign says:

    Thanks, Danielle! Great time to be reminded of our talents and the gifts our Creator has bestowed on us!

    1 year ago

  • FlourishAndDebonair

    FlourishAndDebonair says:

    This activity was so inspiring! Thanks for your help, Danielle! :)

    1 year ago

  • MegansMenagerie

    MegansMenagerie says:

    Such a great post! Thank you!!! =)

    1 year ago

  • QueenofCuffs

    QueenofCuffs says:

    Oh that's hard. You see if I say something about my strengths it sounds like bragging. I blame the nuns for making us too modest. I will try . . . . .

    1 year ago

  • ArtPhotosDiana

    ArtPhotosDiana says:

    Yes--inspiring, timely, motivating. Thanks, Danielle.

    1 year ago

  • NeedlesnPinsStichery

    NeedlesnPinsStichery says:

    This is good. I think we always dwell on what is going wrong than what we are doing right. Thanks for the story!

    1 year ago

  • SweetandDandyVintage

    SweetandDandyVintage says:

    Staying positive is so important...positive thought breeds a more positive reality. Great post!

    1 year ago

  • ACupOfSparkle

    ACupOfSparkle says:

    It is a very inspiring article that reminda me to stay positive and keep working. Thanks for sharing!

    1 year ago

  • tigersanddragons

    tigersanddragons says:

    Thanks for the reminder about focusing on the things that are good. Sometimes it's hard when bumps keep appearing in the road. While on a one week stress leave, my close friend was sent a letter telling him that he was fired. So I spent last evening joking with him and we spent some of that time listing all the things that were good in his life. I could totally relate because when I was downsized it was a horrible surprise. When I was able to stop being angry, I thought about a) what made me happy b) what I wanted out of my future and that led me to go to jewellery school, develop a business and become self employed.

    1 year ago

  • mindimade

    mindimade says:

    positivity begets positivity! what a great reminder not to be too hard on ourselves and to accentuate the positive instead. nice article, danielle! cheers!

    1 year ago

  • bialakura

    bialakura says:

    focus on the positive part - great idea! Thank you for the inspiration:)

    1 year ago

  • Ahkriti

    Ahkriti says:

    Oh this post is so so inspiring! Thank you Danielle! I liked the way you wrote it all down like the SWOT analysis! Liked the buy arts supplies for daughter...am gonna use this idea to spend some creative time with my girls!!!! After a sale this week, the client actually wrote me an email for my sincerity in my creations and it felt so good. I actually stopped for sometime and patted myself and said...yes, I know I am doing it right...sales will come in. Keep counting your blessings!

    1 year ago

  • WanderLustre

    WanderLustre says:

    This is wonderful! You motivated and inspired me. I love how seeing the inspiration process of others through the sketchbook pages can help to ignite my own creativity. Just another example of Etsy magic and how it can extend into other sectors as well! I'm thinking of my life as a nursing student -- we can always stand to be a little more gracious towards ourselves! Thanks so much.

    1 year ago

  • townandcountry12

    townandcountry12 says:

    Danielle you have given me the push I needed to start selling on Etsy. I have been thinking this move until it has holes in it. My places that I have sold my crafts have just about dried up where I live, (craft fairs) I have done well with those but it is time to do more than read about everything I can find about Etsy, so I am ready to do more than dip my toes in the pool. Grand post.

    1 year ago

  • LesasPlunderPlace

    LesasPlunderPlace says:

    Cool! Cool! Cool! What a great question to ask oneself, and now I want to try my hand at this exercise. Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • ustyle

    ustyle says:

    Thanks for the positive uplift. I'm always thinking of new ideas but I'm not always sure of myself. Thank you my new spring resolution will yo be more positive!!

    1 year ago

  • iroirocrafts

    iroirocrafts says:

    Thank you for this, I love positive thinking! I truly think if you believe in yourself, anything is possible. Sometimes you have to literally write out your strengths for true belief in yourself :)

    1 year ago

  • ustyle

    ustyle says:

    Sorry typo - I will be more positive ! And learn how to type!!!

    1 year ago

  • nowvintage

    nowvintage says:

    This is so nice! The idea is helpful, and I love the creative way they were each done! very inspiring!!!

    1 year ago

  • TheMillineryShop

    TheMillineryShop says:

    Thanks so much Danielle! It's good to be able to toot your own horn once in a while, right?

    1 year ago

  • JasmineLund

    JasmineLund says:

    I love this idea! It's so easy to get stuck in the rut of "I'm not selling enough", and not really acknowledge that one's creative talent is developing rapidly. And if one loses sight of where one is on the road of progress, one often turns around and goes backwards.

    1 year ago

  • needleyou

    needleyou says:

    This is a good exercise & I'm gonna give it a try. Thanks : )

    1 year ago

  • providencevintage

    providencevintage says:

    This is huge. Our society focuses so much sometimes at building our weakness - not a bad idea, but if we forget about our strengths andthose things that come naturally to use, we miss that special edge. We aren't being as full, aren't being who we were meant to be. Thank you, Danielle, for inspiring us to be who we are meant to be! Laura from Providence Vintage

    1 year ago

  • lovelygifts

    lovelygifts says:

    Great ideas!

    1 year ago

  • therustyschwinn

    therustyschwinn says:

    Girl, you are speakin' my language!

    1 year ago

  • LunaNora

    LunaNora says:

    http://lunanora.blogspot.com/2011/03/day-14-etsy-success-challenge-whats.html Thank you Danielle!

    1 year ago

  • vKnit

    vKnit says:

    what a great idea! thanks danielle! :) xox

    1 year ago

  • JudiPaintedit

    JudiPaintedit says:

    To bad I cant post pics here.... I would show you my "to do or to accomplish" list. It starts in the center of the paper with arrows going outward with goals completely going all the way around the center......

    1 year ago

  • ohbuckets

    ohbuckets says:

    *love* this idea - will be giving it a whirl - and thanks for showing some real examples!

    1 year ago

  • ruthiebell

    ruthiebell says:

    hmmm....good idea

    1 year ago

  • brahmanda

    brahmanda says:

    awesome idea! I wish I could make more connections with people on the internet.... I guess that would be a good starting point!

    1 year ago

  • HeyLittleSister

    HeyLittleSister says:

    Not everyone is going to LOVE everything we create...it's a fact, but the very cool thing with Etsy...such positive and generous sellers that support and have our backs. I thank God each day for the talents/ gifts and friends he has given me. There is so much good energy here...the world could sure use more of that.

    1 year ago

  • WormeWoole

    WormeWoole says:

    What a neat thing you did for your friends that day, Danielle. Thank you for reminding us to look for the good in ourselves and what we do.

    1 year ago

  • yaelfran

    yaelfran says:

    this is just wonderful Danielle, thanks!!!!!!

    1 year ago

  • aoisart

    aoisart says:

    Interesting! Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • mcldrygoods

    mcldrygoods says:

    very fun article. makes a lot of sense. :)

    1 year ago

  • vintagemaison

    vintagemaison says:

    ...and I promise to do the important things first and not waste time then try to squeeze it in later... Uh oh! This means not trawling (never surfing) the web in the early morning in my nightie...

    1 year ago

  • wolflady

    wolflady says:

    Thanks for thye great tips and ideas.

    1 year ago

  • gufobardo

    gufobardo says:

    ok Danielle give me the paper!

    1 year ago

  • MagicMarkingsArt

    MagicMarkingsArt says:

    Fabulously inspiring post and images!

    1 year ago

  • ChrissiesRibbons

    ChrissiesRibbons says:

    So constructive and inspiring- thank you!!

    1 year ago

  • metalmorphoz

    metalmorphoz says:

    That's what we all need! If I feel happy or positive than good things happen if not immediately but in a couple of days! Thanks Danielle!

    1 year ago

  • Verdurebydesign

    Verdurebydesign says:

    I ilke the process, starting with the positive instead of the negative. Have I been doing it back- the- front all this time? A "creative" way to think. I can do this! :) Love the post Danielle! Thanks.

    1 year ago

  • dreamversion

    dreamversion says:

    Great ideas!!! Starting right now! Thanks Danielle! :)

    1 year ago

  • BrisTieDyes

    BrisTieDyes says:

    Oh sometimes it is hard to keep your head up! I am a teen tiedyer who had great high hopes of terrific sales on Etsy, and when that didn't happen immediately for me, I had to remember to be thankful for the sales I had... and figure out how to generate more views to my items. I know everyone will not fall in love with my 'wearable art' but those who favorite an item sure to bring a smile to my face. It's all about appreciating he little things!!! Thanks for the inspiration to keep working hard, appreciating the good, and loving what I do! Briar Kathleen Rose

    1 year ago

  • WoodlandBelle

    WoodlandBelle says:

    What a refreshing perspective. You're right Danielle; it's all too easy to put ourselves down. There's a balance though, and focusing on the good things helps keep us upbeat and motivated. I appreciate the real sketches and brainstorming charts, too. Great work, Etsy Success team!

    1 year ago

  • cre8ivecat

    cre8ivecat says:

    Thank you so much for this inspiring post!! Even at 36, I sadly admit that I occasionally struggle with low self-esteem. However, I DO know that I am REALLY good at many aspects of my work. I am inspired to keep moving forward! Thanks again!

    1 year ago

  • mythofus

    mythofus says:

    it really is too easy- especially when business is down- to focus on what we aren't doing. I like that this focused on the positive and how to focus those things on currents projects, ideas, etc

    1 year ago

  • elegantgirl

    elegantgirl says:

    Thanks for this amazing article!! Always staying postive, staying motivated, having a balance, recharging our creative brains, and remaining focused on the future is so important! Thanks for including me in the article, I am honored!!:)

    1 year ago

  • shyrabbit

    shyrabbit says:

    Thanks Danielle, Great food for thought...Love your post, Thanks Michael

    1 year ago

  • HouseOfMoss

    HouseOfMoss says:

    YES! There are things we are doing right, and that is where our thoughts should live. From there, we can kindly and thoughtfully improve the other areas.

    1 year ago

  • SerantoniDesigns

    SerantoniDesigns says:

    Loved your Brainstorm methodology! (Especially since I can't get beyond my 11th Sale....) Thanks for sharing :) Mary Serantoni SERANTONI Designs

    1 year ago

  • ellenhowardhandmade

    ellenhowardhandmade says:

    looking at the positive side of things, and what works best always brings more good and positive your way. building on the positives.....yes!

    1 year ago

  • frommylifetoyours

    frommylifetoyours says:

    this is great to know , especiailly when you feel like giving up .

    1 year ago

  • LittleMissCards

    LittleMissCards says:

    What a great idea! I'm so tweeting this!

    1 year ago

  • newhopebeading

    newhopebeading says:

    This was a fun exercise...it really helped me focus thanks for including my notes and my "I'm an Artist" necklace

    1 year ago

  • theroyal

    theroyal says:

    i think it is hard for individuals to realizes their strengths and weaknesses. therefore i see this as a relevant challenge to shop owners.

    1 year ago

  • sarahfburns

    sarahfburns says:

    Inspiring and encouraging! Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • frenchhenshop

    frenchhenshop says:

    I love this article-thanks for the positive shift of perspective!

    1 year ago

  • Naturesbeads

    Naturesbeads says:

    Wow, Danielle, your articles are always in themselves so inspiring~~ It is usually easier to put oneself down than to bask in the realization that we have all been successful at something some point in our lives and that form of success should be enough to push us forward and not backward. Great idea to stay positive- a timely post! I love the sketches too, they made my day~~ThANK YOU~

    1 year ago

  • SkateBetty

    SkateBetty says:

    Great advice Danielle : ) Very inspiring

    1 year ago

  • TheCreativeVineyard

    TheCreativeVineyard says:

    Thank you for focusing on the positive.

    1 year ago

  • kimslittlemonsters

    kimslittlemonsters says:

    great post Danielle! Very helpful, thanks! :)

    1 year ago

  • nightowlcraftworks

    nightowlcraftworks says:

    aww! smooches! thanks for adding mine. i loved seeing & reading all the creative ideas! i haven't been able to stop thinking about this since the question was brought up. i need to follow through.... and please keep these kinds of posts coming! very inspiring!

    1 year ago

  • stepbackink

    stepbackink says:

    everyday is a new canvas for new ideas, your article is very inspiring and good. :)

    1 year ago

  • DayMountainDesigns

    DayMountainDesigns says:

    Thanks! Great idea, especially when you are out of ideas!

    1 year ago

  • jcjewelrydesign

    jcjewelrydesign says:

    Love this article! Thanks Danielle for posting this~

    1 year ago

  • TopThatDesigns

    TopThatDesigns says:

    Thanks inpiring and helpful

    1 year ago

  • RosellaResin

    RosellaResin says:

    Awesome! This is inspiring! I'll be doing this project myself tonight!

    1 year ago

  • Summer2MyWinter

    Summer2MyWinter says:

    good article! good ideas! who woulda thunk to focus on our strengths, since it's so easy to focus on our own weaknesses. Thanks! :)

    1 year ago

  • Mycutietootie

    Mycutietootie says:

    I think some of the most amazing people in the world are the ones who look for the good, positive things happening in our lives! It is so easy to look at all the drama going on but it takes a strong person to step back and say, "Hey guys! We are working hard and doing so much positive in our lives! Lets concentrate on all the GOOD today!" So Thank You Danielle! We all need to stay positive!

    1 year ago

  • shopgoodgrace

    shopgoodgrace says:

    This is a unique way to focus on your work/craft/side-job. :) I love the visuals that go along with it....

    1 year ago

  • CloudShop

    CloudShop says:

    SO enjoy the fun ideas, interesting suggestions, thoughts, etc., the ETSY community comes up with - AND SHARES! Really inspirational! AND not just for business/commerce, but for everyday life too. THANKS! PS - new to Etsy - not enough time (yet) to spend a lot of time on - but working towards more. Thanks to all who have inspired me through this platform!

    1 year ago

  • EvesLittleEarthlings

    EvesLittleEarthlings says:

    This is so inspiring!

    1 year ago

  • 24hmosaic

    24hmosaic says:

    I'm new to Etsy and still feel a little lost with all the information, but right now my priority is to make known to my store, I'm still not an expert in these so I realy loved your post, because it made me realize that my Worries are also the concerns of others. Once again thanks. Cristina

    1 year ago

  • SISTERBATIK

    SISTERBATIK says:

    Hi I just saw this post, after I had just blogged about "Motivation and that dip on the self-esteem chart". I am really glad that you chose the angle of "what we do well?" As I did something similar, I shared how I enable my self-esteem and "intrinsic motivation". Please take a look if you like: http://sisterbatik.blogspot.com/2011/04/motivation-and-that-dip-on-self-esteem.html Thank you for writing this : )

    1 year ago

  • littlefarm

    littlefarm says:

    I loved this article it is always easier to see the negative in things rather than the positive; I think it is human nature to be that way. We need to step into THE POSITIVE! By collaborating, journaling, and listing this can bring so many great ideas! Whether you drink wine, coffee or tea have a little party or party by yourself you can let your creative juices flow and grow as an artist/person.

    1 year ago

  • EviesToolEmporium

    EviesToolEmporium says:

    Wonderful!

    1 year ago

  • crochetedbycharlene

    crochetedbycharlene says:

    How exciting to read about positive things. Too often we worry about what we're not doing right, and it's great to have to think of what we're doing right. And even better to improve on it! Thanks for the great idea!

    1 year ago

  • pamgstudio

    pamgstudio says:

    Thanks for reminding us to focus on the good that we are accomplishing. It's easy to forget sometimes. Simply inspiring!!

    1 year ago

  • AGiftAndACard

    AGiftAndACard says:

    WOW! I went in an entirly different direction. Thanks so much for showing me that the how is not as important as the why. Etsy is just stuffed with personal beauty. And aint doing too bad with heart.

    1 year ago

  • poorjimsvintage

    poorjimsvintage says:

    I wish I was a more of an artist.

    1 year ago

  • bibsnbobs

    bibsnbobs says:

    What a great idea. I think i'll do this and pin up on a board so i can look at it when I need some inspiration. Thank you.

    1 year ago

  • BlueTerracotta

    BlueTerracotta says:

    Great! Coincides with th book I'm reading: Switch by Chip and Dan Heath. Focus on the "bright spots" or what's working, and do more of that instead of looking at the negative. Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • todarlascloset

    todarlascloset says:

    LOVE etsy. Everyone is so nice and helpful. We're all in this together. Selling stuff supports my crafting habit and I'm so self-motivated, it's nice to know there are others out there like me. Helps me keep my sanity. Thank you.

    1 year ago

  • dearpumpernickel

    dearpumpernickel says:

    This is great motivation and a lovely idea. Thank you Danielle for including my drawing in this!

    1 year ago

  • SofibellaDesign

    SofibellaDesign says:

    This is just the motivation that a new seller needs! Not only great ideas, but being reassured that IT IS NOT JUST ME WHO ENCOUNTERS THESE DIFFICULTIES! Thank you for the inspiration!

    1 year ago

  • loddelina

    loddelina says:

    thank you for this inspiring post, I wish you all a creative April!

    1 year ago

  • beachglassshop

    beachglassshop says:

    did I need this! Thank you -

    1 year ago

  • evabdesigns

    evabdesigns says:

    Very inspiring, thank you :)))

    1 year ago

  • gardenmis

    gardenmis says:

    Thanks for the beautiful inspiration and creativity shared =)

    1 year ago

  • ArtThatMoves

    ArtThatMoves says:

    I love the idea of making illustrated lists. I make lists, but often don't look at them again because they're not engaging. Illustrated lists are much more inspiring! It's what I used to do when I was a kid.

    1 year ago

  • DeirdreLeePortraits

    DeirdreLeePortraits says:

    Exactly what I needed...thank you!!! :-)

    1 year ago

  • BearStitches

    BearStitches says:

    Bear Stitches is so excited to be part of this Blog...and to see our Jaguar iPad on the page...Thanks. We had fun doing the HOMEWORK !!!!...

    1 year ago

  • KooKooCraft

    KooKooCraft says:

    great ideas!

    1 year ago

  • BoldBride

    BoldBride says:

    That's so good idea! I didn't even realize it is so difficult to think about things I do right because I used to focus on things that have to be improved! thanx !

    1 year ago

  • joblake

    joblake says:

    Inspirational and helpful goodies here! I'm proud I finally got something listed and can't wait to get to work...

    1 year ago

  • joblake

    joblake says:

    Inspirational and helpful goodies here! I'm proud I finally got something listed and can't wait to get to work...

    1 year ago

  • LorenzoTheCat

    LorenzoTheCat says:

    Hooray for acknowledging what's right rather than whining about what's wrong. Bravo!

    1 year ago

  • MadebyLinLin

    MadebyLinLin says:

    love the mind maps! These really help thanks :D

    1 year ago

  • SusanMSpohn

    SusanMSpohn says:

    After making maps and lists of everything we are doing right, you feel pretty successful! Of course there are always more things to put on that to-do list. Sometimes making a commitment to do just one new thing everyday can help, even if it is of an agreed upon short duration. I think the best inspiration comes from customers, family and friends who love our art, and make wonderful comments. Perhaps we could all encourage each other by commenting on how much we love/like someones new work they just posted on Etsy!

    1 year ago

  • egoranites

    egoranites says:

    wow great blog!

    1 year ago

  • AllAboutCats

    AllAboutCats says:

    Great ideas!

    1 year ago

  • tarbeachjewelry

    tarbeachjewelry says:

    Thanks for your inspiration, Danielle. I have been a member of etsy for several years, and I finally started my own shop this week. I am so discouraged because half of my photographs didn't turn out, and I have a meager 10 items in my store. It feels very hodge-podge. So, if you ever get the time, would be willing to please check out my shop and give me an honest critique? I would warmly appreciate it. Thank you! Best, Marie

    1 year ago

  • thebroomshack

    thebroomshack says:

    thank you!, I am starting my new shop today and need all the help I can get, WISH me luck- or should I say brake me a leg?! ;) lol!, wiTchever, see u all @ the Broom shack!...

    1 year ago

  • Morah

    Morah says:

    Very Inspirational! Thank you so much for such a wonderful post! I was having a little trouble keeping my head up...but then I wake up to this! THANK YOU!

    1 year ago

  • ChristineKrainock

    ChristineKrainock says:

    Thanks, very inspiring! I just started a new shop 3-4 weeks ago and have only had one sale. I was starting to feel very discouraged as I was used to my paintings selling quickly other places. This reminded me to stay positive and focused. Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • Vintage201

    Vintage201 says:

    It is most important to stay positve about my efforts and what I am doing just feels right. When the negative thoughts come into my head,,,I just throw them away...they don't belong because then I become my worst enemy. If I just believe in myself others will too...Great Article for Inspiration.

    1 year ago

  • hydrangeasdecor

    hydrangeasdecor says:

    Wow! I'm new here on Etsy and I just love love LOVE all of the great energy here! Whenever I get down......this should be my therapy! I know I have talents but I just have a hard time getting my stuff noticed. I' trying to figure out how to get everything straightened out and organized. I'm inspired And FINALLY with Spring on its way I certainly am going to do a fresh start!! Thanks again

    1 year ago

  • hydrangeasdecor

    hydrangeasdecor says:

    Oooops. Maybe it will help that I posted twice? LOL.

    1 year ago

  • ClayLickCreekPottery

    ClayLickCreekPottery says:

    Thanks for the new twist on motivation!

    1 year ago

  • beadsofaquarius

    beadsofaquarius says:

    really inspired , i like the idea to stay always positive!!!!! thank you for this post!

    1 year ago

  • Pearlfriend

    Pearlfriend says:

    I will propose the experience with my friends tomorrow night. Thanks

    1 year ago

  • prendasbyenid

    prendasbyenid says:

    I'm going to bed with my "create" notebook NOW!!! Thanks!!!

    1 year ago

  • KMalinka

    KMalinka says:

    Great advise

    1 year ago

  • bigredtomato

    bigredtomato says:

    Thanks for sharing! Great inspiration to stay positive, especially with the slow sales... :-)

    1 year ago

  • rahyaeb

    rahyaeb says:

    Such a great idea.

    1 year ago

  • talktothesun

    talktothesun says:

    this article was a reminder! thanks a lot!!!

    1 year ago

  • bobbidiboo

    bobbidiboo says:

    My most important thing I need to do is produce more! Wake up at 5:15 and work an hour before the kids wake up.

    1 year ago

  • paulacelaya

    paulacelaya says:

    AMAZING IDEAS! I ALWAYS THINK ABOUT WHAT IM DOING WRONG, AND NEVER THINK ABOUT WHAT IM GOOD AT! ILL KEEP THIS POST IN MIND!

    1 year ago

  • DaffodilCorner

    DaffodilCorner says:

    Grea article. What a wonderful idea for gatherings of artists or for a team meeting.

    1 year ago

  • willowstreetworkshop

    willowstreetworkshop says:

    Very inspiring article. I love seeing all of your lists. My greatest strength right now is just that I started. I dared to start my shop on Etsy and I actually dared to create some art and try to sell it. I still can't believe it... my negative side is very confused by all this good stuff that art is bringing into my life.

    1 year ago

  • StephBAKER

    StephBAKER says:

    LOVE! This idea! Especially since it supports the idea of THRIVING as an Artist! I think we overlook our positives and if we focused on them, rather than pushing ourselves through grasping what's wrong or isn't happening, we'd great authentic movement, inspired movement in creating the life we truly desire!

    1 year ago

  • girliepains

    girliepains says:

    I love the bunting!

    1 year ago

  • godzgirl13

    godzgirl13 says:

    I'm so excited to be a part of etsy. Now, I've just got to begin putting myself out there! Yay!

    1 year ago

  • dahlilafound

    dahlilafound says:

    This is great. It showed up at just the perfect time, as I've just opened a 2nd shop & am having ambivilent doubts. It's good to remember what I'm doing right, and that I am making efforts to improve, even when I may not be there yet. (I don't give myself credit enough for trying.) I realized that Thank you cards are a big part of my "doing right". No matter what, each customer gets a hand written thank you w/their purchase. Off to brainstorm more, thank you Danielle! d, xo

    1 year ago

  • vintagemaison

    vintagemaison says:

    Well, I love spending money. Sorry, but there it is...So, I have had to turn my weakness into my strength. I deal in vintage, so to get stock, I have to spend money. I have just had to learn to spend wisely ;)

    1 year ago

  • skiedesign

    skiedesign says:

    Its so great to see how other artists and fellow business owners stay focused. Great ideas.

    1 year ago

  • 5chancesstore

    5chancesstore says:

    I am and I will STAY FOCUSED and it was great to read that IT IS A MUST in my desire to SUCCEED and I learned something as well. I invision new products all the time and I am always "testing" to get it right. I will continue to test,test, test and I know that it will pay off for me and I will continue to learn and grow and that is detrimental to a business SUCCESS. Thanks for an informative story.

    1 year ago

  • XianStitch

    XianStitch says:

    That's certainly inspiring. I love the points you made. Those illustrations remind me of those hand-written homework I did years ago as a students. Actually these are the most important homework to do now in life.

    1 year ago

  • wallpusher

    wallpusher says:

    Super article !! thanks for the insights!!

    1 year ago

  • GreenSproutSoap

    GreenSproutSoap says:

    Love this! So helpful...

    1 year ago

  • JamesSkilesArt

    JamesSkilesArt says:

    Great article!!! And thanks for the lift! I'm a little envious that you have Etsy friends that you can bang ideas together with. I'm fairly new here, but am learning how this vast thing works. I am going to stay focused on my positive. Thanks:)

    1 year ago

  • melange4you

    melange4you says:

    Looks great.......thank you...

    1 year ago

  • CatsWithAnAccent

    CatsWithAnAccent says:

    This was posted last century, but I liked reading it. :)

    1 year ago

  • The Etsy Seller Handbook: All Our How-To’s About Selling | The Etsy Blog says:

    [...] Etsy Success Challenge: What’s Your Biggest Strength? [...]

    300 days ago

  • 65judy65

    65judy65 says:

    i still need a bill of sale

    260 days ago