Sunday, July 22, 2012

Big Idea? Get an Adviser

"Higher Learning"  Watercolor/ Ink on Paper  ©AntoniaRuppert
“Many advisers make victory sure.”  I learned these wise words of King Solomon years ago when I was mentored as a young Christian.

In my last post, I mentioned three things that help put BIG IDEAS into action.  One of these three things was having many advisers.  I thought it might be helpful to you, my reader, to further explain this concept and how it is helping me reach one of my goals. 

Here is who I've sought advice from:
  • Amos Johnson, Jr. - Adviser to Christian Entrepreneurs
  • Centerpoint - Governor State University’s center for small businesses in Illinois
  • Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) - Chicago’s small business incubator

Adviser to Christian Entrepreneurs
Amos Johnson, Jr. and his Biblical Entrepreneurship Training Center -  I was introduced to him via a Facebook group for Christian Entrepreneurs. 

“What is my calling? How can I continue to focus on what God has called me to do with my creative gift?  Before getting advice from Amos, these types of questions swam in my head.

Working via phone with Amos has helped me get more and more clear about these questions.  I had not yet considered that God was truly interested in my business. Something to consider, right?

Business Development Advisers
Further, I asked the folks at Governor State University’s Centerpoint - .  This business center’s mission is to create a nurturing environment for entrepreneurs.  Bob, Dan, Don, Marlene and staff have helped me tremendously.  From one-on-one meetings about planning my business to an Entrepreneurial Bootcamp, they have provided practical knowledge.

Technical Specialists
While at Centerpoint, Don encouraged me to check out the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC).  I called and found their Procurement Technical Assistance Center to be world class.  They strive to help all Illinois based businesses build contractor relationships with local, state and federal government entities.  I’ve learned way more than I ever expected.  I am so grateful for their help.

Concluding Thoughts
I had a goal and needed help fulfilling it.  In order for me to go to the next level in my artistic business, I sought advice. In one of my affirmations, which I posted on my Facebook Page, I wrote:

My every step is guided.
I make right choices.
I give it my all--
heart and soul.


I would not be able to believe and declare this without the help of many advisers.

How have you sought out advisers? What’s your process for seeking out mentors? Please share in the comments below.