My Journey to Building a Life I Love
If you’ve ever dreamed of having more freedom in your life, freedom to set your own schedule, choose your own projects, and build something that’s truly yours, I want to share a very real, behind-the-scenes story today.
Because while it’s easy to look at someone who’s "made it" and think it must have been smooth sailing, the truth is, every creative business journey is paved with hard work, courage, and a lot of figuring it out as you go.
Starting From Scratch: No List, No Experience, No Tech Skills
When I first decided to build a creative business, I didn’t have:
❌ An email list
❌ A lead magnet
❌ Any real tech skills
❌ Any idea how to build an online audience
What I did have was a very powerful "why". If you’ve been following along, you might remember it from an earlier blog post. Read about the importance of having a strong “why” in my blog called Strategy First.
After getting laid off, completely unexpectedly, from corporate life (after 30+ years!), I was determined to build a business that would allow me to earn what I did before, but on my own terms.
I wanted to be in control of my future.
I wanted to create something that no one could take away from me.
And that “why” kept me moving forward even when the learning curve felt overwhelming.
The Three Skills That Carried Me Through
Looking back, there were three critical skills that made all the difference, and none of them were technical.
1. A Deep Desire and Willingness to Learn
I didn’t know how to build an email list, create a course, or sell online when I started. But I was willing to be a beginner. I was willing to learn. I found mentors, invested in programs, watched trainings, and most importantly, applied what I learned.
2. Perseverance (Especially When Things Broke!)
Not everything worked the first time. In fact, most things didn’t. Tech glitches, emails that didn’t send, automations that didn’t work. It was frustrating at times.
But I stuck with it. I kept reminding myself: every problem has a solution. You just have to stay calm, troubleshoot, and keep moving forward.
3. Implementing & Iterating (Don’t Stay Stuck in Learning Mode)
I like this quote:
"The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing" by Walt Disney.
That quote stuck with me. I learned that taking imperfect action was far more powerful than waiting until everything was "perfect." I launched my first product “capsule”, with only 5 products, before I felt ready. I launched a creative membership to a small group of founding members in order to get input and feedback about what worked and what needed to be improved. Every single time, I learned something that made the next version of what I was creating better.
The Payoff: Freedom, Flexibility, Fulfillment
Fast forward to today, and here’s the honest truth:
Yes, building a business is hard work.
Yes, there’s a steep learning curve.
Yes, you’ll face moments of doubt.
But the freedom on the other side is absolutely worth it.
Today, I have:
Time freedom: I set my schedule. I balance work with creative time. I get outside!
Money freedom: I earn income through physical and digital products.
Location freedom: My business goes where I go. All I need is my laptop and Wi-Fi.
Most importantly, I’ve built a life that feels aligned with who I am, not who a company or boss expects me to be.
It’s Not Just About the Money
When you hear "freedom," it’s easy to think it’s all about the money. And yes, money matters. But what’s been even more valuable is:
The confidence I’ve gained by building something from scratch.
The relationships I’ve built with students, colleagues, and fellow creatives.
The joy of waking up excited about what I get to work on each day.
Building a creative business gives you the power to:
Say yes to projects you love.
Say no to opportunities that don’t align.
Create a business and a life that reflect your values, your vision, and your purpose.
If You’re Just Getting Started...
If you’re in those messy beginning stages, learning tech, building your first offer, figuring out how to attract an audience, please know that it’s normal to feel overwhelmed.
Everyone starts somewhere.
You don’t have to be perfect.
You just have to be willing.
One step at a time.
One action at a time.
One day at a time.
You’re closer than you think.
Ready to Take Your First Step?
If reading this makes something inside you whisper,
"Maybe I can do this too..." then I want to personally invite you to join me for a very special event coming up.
The Creative Business Blueprint LIVE is happening June 24–26. During this live virtual event, you’ll experience each part of my 6-part framework and we’ll work through it TOGETHER.
Over three powerful days, you’ll fill out your own “Playbook” and:
Define your purpose and ideal customer
Identify your ideal customer
Finalize your very own “lead magnet” to attract them
Outline your first irresistible offer
Learn the secrets behind launching, and
Embrace the importance of delivering outstanding customer experiences
It’s interactive, immersive, and designed to help you leave with a real plan, not just a bunch of ideas.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it.
📅 Mark your calendar: June 24–26
🎟️ Grab your ticket here → https://members.artwithanne.com/cbb
I would love to spend three amazing days with you. Imagine taking the next bold step toward building a business (and life) you love.
You deserve it. 💛
Join Me Live on Wednesday
As usual, I’ll be live on Facebook & YouTube on Wednesday at noon PT / 3pm ET.
📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annelafolletteart
📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AnneLaFollette1
Come hang out and bring your questions. I can’t wait to see you there!
xo,
Anne
Interested in my group coaching program? Spots are limited. Complete your application HERE and then we’ll talk.
It’s Never Too Late to Create®
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Come experience my method LIVE! Click this link for details: https://members.artwithanne.com/cbb
MEET ANNE
Hi…I’m Anne!
My creative inspiration comes from a lifetime of observation. I grew up in Paris on the Place St. Sulpice and walked to school through the Luxembourg gardens. And that was only the beginning… Learn more by watching the video on my About page.
