THIS ARTICLE ORIGINALLY APPEARED ON THE NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL BLOG One of my biggest passions in life is to help other women succeed in business. I’m on a mission to bridge the gap between the world of money and creative entrepreneurship so you can feel confident in your finances, clarity in your direction, and freedom to […]

Every New Year’s Eve, Kyle and I have a little tradition—we head to our favorite little coffee shop, grab a peppermint latte and review our “highs and lows” from each quarter of the year. This quote never feels more true to me than in these moments of reflection. I typically have to pull out my […]

By Laura Michael, as told by Sara Shelton Part of our “My Blueprint Story” Series Real talk : This whole “business owner” thing is still pretty new to me. I’ve been operating my watercolor design, branding, and brand development business for just about 11 months now. So while it’s safe to say I’m no expert, […]

By Lindsay Jani, as told by Sara Shelton Part of our “My Blueprint Story” Series Balance. Isn’t that what most of us creative entrepreneurs are looking for? That elusive work/life balance that allows you to be successful in growing your company without giving up everything you love in your personal life in the process. The fight […]

When was the last time you achieved a big goal? I’m willing to bet it’s when you had something you really wanted in mind and then created a set of action steps to get you there! Where I see us get goal setting wrong is stating a big lofty goal into the universe, but then […]

Inspiration fuels Innovation. Are you neglecting the one thing that could actually move your business forward faster? Most business owners put themselves last. Trust me, I still fall into this trap easily. It’s easy to believe time off is a luxury and self-care is selfish. I get it, there is too much to do and […]

How do you stay on track with your goals month by month? + 3 Mo Planning Guide My friend Katelyn just had a baby and she has a doula that helps her. One of the things she shared with me that her doula shared with her is that babies thrive in routines – not schedules. […]

I was twenty-five years old when I asked myself this question : Q: If I could do anything, I would…. “Do something I enjoy everyday. I would make an impact, have a life that matters, live big dreams, live a life that pleases the Lord. LOVE. Write a book, work with great people and build […]

Back in those days of 6 inch high heels and black power suits, I spent my days talking investments, retirement, insurance and risk management. So often I found myself saying, “more than anything, most people just need a good budget”. As someone that has always dealt with a fluctuating income, traditional budgeting can be so […]

There’s a crispness in the air which can only mean one thing…Annual planning season is here!!! Ten years ago, I started the practice of annual planning. With a hot pink three ring binder and eyes twinkling with lofty goals and big dreams, I set out to change the world. Through the years I’ve learned what […]

By Heather Payne, as told by Sara Shelton Part of our “My Blueprint Story” Series Hi, my name is Heather Payne. I’m a creative entrepreneur who’s been running my destination wedding photography business for nearly eight years. And I have a confession to make: I have a part-time job… by choice. Yes, that’s right, I’m running […]

What if you could quit social media for a year and double your sales in your business? OR what if you could stay ON social media this next year but quit comparing your business, your stuff, your relationships and your life to those of other people? Ugh yes please! What if social media could be the […]