Investing in Me

A few months ago, I wrote about my desire to micro-invest in businesses starting on the 30th anniversary of my first open heart surgery. Well, I ended up having a pacemaker implanted on November 10th (yes I'm 32 and a cyborg lol) so that didn't go as planned on November 8th. Instead, I decided to invest in me this month.  Although, I did give to a couple of small businesses in October :).

I thought long and hard about my next venture. I've worked in education (former special education teacher), nonprofit (people with disabilities), volunteered with veteran service organizations and helped startups.  I decided that it was time to start my own for-profit social enterprise.  The thinking didn't start in November.  It started last year on a visit to Michigan, my home state.  I was devastated to see empty storefronts.  Later, Borders, my favorite local bookstore (I grew up in Ann Arbor), closed.  I wanted to do something, but couldn't decide what or how.  In November, after the pacemaker implant, I decided to go for it.

I asked a web developer for help, asked a friend for more help and while recuperating, did market research.  I had to learn how to incorporate in Michigan while living in California.  I engaged a great Michigan-based writer to help with articles that I'd need written.  In January, my new venture will debut.  Wish me luck!

I'm not giving up on my promise for micro-philanthropy.  I'll still give and document my $30/month.  Now I'm going to spread what I'm doing even further. 

Odesk

Odesk is one of my favorite sites for freelancers.  I know there's Guru, a similar site.  However, I like the insurance plans at Odesk.  There's something about being able to get into a group insurance plan that this freelancer likes.  Don't let the online environment scare you.  Yes, you have to interview for some of the jobs.  But, there's a job tracker, money is paid in advance to Odesk for certain jobs, there's a time tracker utility to make sure that you get paid (or that your contractor is working).  It's great for writers, designers, developers, editors, etc.  If you've ever wanted to be a virtual assistant, you can give it a try here too.