A strict schedule allows me to function properly and have a proper work/life balance. I have worked from home since 2018 so I was well adjusted to this way of working. I have a home studio that is dedicated to the business of selling vintage and reworked designer accessories online; it’s zoned so everything flows. In this one compact space, I unpack deliveries, rework jewellery, photograph stock, and look after orders. When I go into the room at 9am, it’s work time and I’m in work mode. I have a cut-off point of 6pm most days so when I leave the studio, I switch into R&R mode. This allows me to separate work and life quite easily even though both are done in the same house. 

My advice for others setting up an online business? Whatever it is that you decide to do, keep your day job until you start making proper sales. Also, do your research. Before I started Lou’s Lot, I sold vintage and pre-loved clothes at flea markets. It gave me an idea of what people wanted and how much they were willing to pay for it. I also talked to other small business owners. I got good advice on the pitfalls to look out for, and the direction to go in that have worked for them. It’s all about networking. Talk to as many people as you can. Not only do you learn a lot, you get excited about what you’re doing. www.louslot.com