Arika Clark Alejo’s entrepreneurial journey began unexpectedly when she became a sign language interpreter. Initially drawn to the idea of communicating with hands, she soon realized that traditional settings like schools offered limited job opportunities. This realization prompted her to start freelancing, taking on the challenges of managing invoices, paperwork, and client acquisition. Although she didn’t realize it then, this was the beginning of her business journey.

Transitioning to Entrepreneurship

As Arika’s career progressed, she moved into running an interpreter agency, marking a conscious shift into entrepreneurship. However, after 16 years in the industry, burnout set in. A friend’s success in a coaching program inspired her to consider a change. Feeling encouraged by her friend’s experience, Arika embraced the challenge of starting afresh. She leveraged her extensive experience and learning mindset to transition into the coaching field.

Navigating Challenges and Building a Support Network

The transition wasn’t without its difficulties. Arika faced internal struggles, feeling as though she was abandoning her previous community and starting from scratch in a new field. Despite these feelings, she found support from her family and a strong network of friends and colleagues, including those in the coaching space. This supportive community played a crucial role in helping her overcome these challenges, reinforcing the importance of having a solid support system in entrepreneurship.

Shifting to Coaching and Adapting to a Digital Business Landscape

During the pandemic, Arika had to learn new skills, including marketing strategies and online networking, as she shifted from interpreting to coaching. She highlighted the importance of connecting with like-minded individuals through groups and programs, where she could share ideas and support with others on similar journeys. Arika also pointed out the challenges of adapting to a more digital-focused business landscape during COVID-19, but she soon saw it as an opportunity to help others transition online.

Developing a Unique Approach to Coaching and Education

As Arika gained more experience in coaching, she developed a unique approach to course creation. Her coaching philosophy focuses on immersive, interactive learning experiences, breaking away from traditional video-based courses. Drawing from elements of progressive education, Arika aims to create engaging and transformative learning experiences, emphasizing active participation over passive content delivery.

Redefining Education in the Business Space

Arika’s goal is to redefine education in the business space by encouraging a shift toward more engaging and impactful learning methods. She empowers her clients to create courses that not only teach but also inspire and transform. Her focus on results-driven approaches, rather than standardized testing or passive learning, sets her coaching style apart in the online business world.

Managing Time and Balancing Entrepreneurial Responsibilities

Arika discusses the challenges of time management and the diverse roles business owners must fulfill, including accounting, marketing, and client services. She suggests strategies for balancing these responsibilities, like outsourcing tasks that are time-consuming but lower in value for the business owner. Arika also advocates for scheduling dedicated time for creative work, recognizing individual energy patterns to optimize productivity.

The Importance of Boundaries and Self-Care

Arika emphasizes the significance of setting boundaries to protect personal time and maintain focus on high-priority tasks. Although maintaining boundaries can be challenging, she stresses the importance of community support to reinforce these practices. Arika encourages entrepreneurs to prioritize self-care and effective time management to achieve greater productivity and work-life balance in their endeavors.

Connect with Arika on social media at: @ArikaClarkAlejo

Arika’s website: www.thriveepic.com

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