In April 2008, Believe a Buddy founder Cat Kozuch was paralyzed in an accident. Doctors advised her she would by no means walk once more – she was decided to show them flawed. During her restoration, she relied on optimistic affirmations and gifted teddy bears from members of the family to spice up her morale. And ultimately, Kozuch did walk out of the hospital when her launch date arrived. Her journey impressed her to launch Believe a Buddy, an organization that sells teddy bears with optimistic affirmations displayed throughout their tummies. The Scottsdale, Arizona, entrepreneur’s main goal? To uplift youngsters along with her line of optimistic plush toys.
Here’s our evenly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.
How is your business totally different from others in your business?
We give again to the group by partnering with unimaginable foundations and firms such because the Giving Goodness Foundation, Origami Owl, Brave Gowns, in addition to numerous psychological well being amenities and elementary faculties. With these organizations, we convey Believe a Buddy bears to youngsters who want them most.
Tell us about your greatest success to date.
Donating 100 teddy bears to a pediatric hospital by means of a kind of partnerships. This collaboration created a ripple impact, inspiring others to hitch in and make their very own donations and contributions.
What is your high problem and the way have you ever addressed it?
Funding my firm independently. At 35 years old, dwelling on a single revenue whereas beginning a business could be financially demanding. I’ve established clear and reasonable budgets to realize a greater understanding of my monetary constraints. This permits me to allocate sources effectively and make knowledgeable choices. I’ve additionally set reasonable timelines for numerous points of my business’ growth. While I’ll not be capable to obtain every thing as shortly as I’d like, this helps me keep organized and targeted.
Have you skilled any vital private conditions which have affected your business choices?
In addition to my demanding day job in medical gross sales and rising Believe a Buddy, I additionally reside with a incapacity — a spinal wire damage that requires common rehabilitation and bodily remedy classes. Balancing all of it could be fairly difficult, however my unwavering motivation retains me going. I’m decided to efficiently handle all of it.
What is your greatest tip for different startup entrepreneurs?
Be ready to sacrifice social outings in favor of prioritizing your startup. Expect a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Stay resilient and protracted. And, search out a group of like-minded people for assist, as a result of the entrepreneurial journey could be isolating.
How do you discover inspiration in your darkest days?
I bear in mind being a 19-year-old lady within the hospital with a damaged again – paralyzed and craving to be exterior, healed and free. When I face powerful days now, I mirror on that younger model of myself and shortly achieve perspective. Then, I take into consideration the kids who’re studying affirmations by means of Believe a Buddy, and it rekindles my motivation. Gratitude is a robust reminder that helps me keep optimistic and targeted.
What is your go-to music to get motivated on powerful days?
“Unstoppable” by Sia. I can’t rely what number of instances I’ve listened to this music. It actually helps me!
Who is your most vital position mannequin?
My sister, Samantha Kozuch. She is the founding father of Maniscripting, a journal business that she launched throughout Covid lockdowns. It has since blossomed right into a multimillion-dollar enterprise. Samantha has been a relentless supply of inspiration, urging me to try to be my finest self whereas offering unwavering assist as I journey by myself entrepreneurial journey. ◼
Instagram: @believeabuddy
Facebook: @believeabuddy
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