I wanted to write something that wasn't necessarily trying to 'flog my wares' and one of the things that came to mind was about developing new projects, or "side-hustles" as they seemingly have become known.
Now I'm a great believer in doing your own thing when it comes to work; if you're bored at work (who isn't?) then having a side-hustle can keep you engaged and interested, whilst earning a little extra cash on the way. Now Divsign is currently my main source of earnings, but that doesn't mean I don't want to do more, to develop more ideas and businesses and help more people along the way.
My long term goal for Divsign Web Design is to offer Wix and Wordpress site design and search engine optimisation, with a team of designers working away to help small businesses become more visible online and improve their offer as best we can. The COVID pandemic seems to have brought more entrepreneurial spirits out of the woodwork, and this means that more and more people are developing their own small businesses, many of which use websites such as Wix, Wordpress, Shopify, Squarespace, etc.
In addition to this, the marketing consultancy work that I undertake will be split out to a different business, currently named DV Marketing. Again, I would love for this to be an independent business that essentially looks after itself.
My 2021 side project, Websites for Charities, has so far been quiet as I haven't had time to hunt down suitable clients, but taking on a Website Design trainee should help with this.
In 2022 I am looking to establish Success Clothing, a CIC charity offering interview clothing and advice to people in the South-West who need it. Talks are underway to establish a base in Exeter and to start making this happen.
At some point in the future I would also like to develop my idea of a community sports club (initially based around football) which helps people improve their mental health. Black Dog United has been in the background for a few years now, and I have made some decent contacts around the UK, but time has been the limiting factor.
If you're full of ideas like I am, or if you think you would be able to collaborate on any of my projects, please feel free to get in touch.