Work-at-Home Success Story

PF: What products and services do you provide?

Stephanie: We have a full line of skin care, cosmetics, body care, and fragrance items. We also provide training to our customers on how to use the skin care and cosmetics so you are receiving the maximum benefits from the products.

PF: Why did you start your home-based Mary Kay business?

Stephanie: I got started because a good friend of mine from church had her business debut. This was the third or fourth time that I had come across the Mary Kay opportunity. I got started because I wanted to have flexibility in my schedule and be in control of my schedule when my son started school.

PF: What is the most challenging part of working from home?

Stephanie: The most challenging part of working from home for me is staying focused. I get sidetracked easily, so this was a struggle at first. Now, I have some systems in place thanks to my Mary Kay director and to FlyLady, Marla Ciley, that are helping me to stay focused and get things done. For more information about family, visit her website at www.flylady.net. I also attended a seminar on productivity that was given by one of my friends.

PF: What do you enjoy the most?

Stephanie: The thing that I enjoy most - wow - That is a hard question. There are a lot of things that I like. I love the girlfriend time and helping people learn how to pamper themselves. I love seeing a woman look at herself in the mirror after we have completed a makeover and say out loud, "Wow. I am beautiful!" I also really like the flexibility that Mary Kay offers. Mary Kay built her company on the priorities of God first, family second, and career third. I really appreciate that!

My son, David, started kindergarten this past September. It has been wonderful because I have been able to volunteer for several field trips, and I also volunteer on a weekly basis to work with the different reading groups in his class.

PF: How do you balance your work with family responsibilities?

Stephanie: I try and plan most of my appointments when my son, David, is in school. If I cannot do that, I do not work more than one day on the weekend. I keep Sunday as my Sabbath. We spend the day going to church together and then hanging out as a family. We are working on implementing a family night in our house as well.

PF: Have you seen God's hand in your business endeavors?

Stephanie: Yes, I have seen God's hand in my business. He has provided me with great mentors in this business and also helped me to grow personally through the training that Mary Kay provides. I am so thankful to God for the Mary Kay opportunity. I am also thankful for all the friends I have made thanks to this business. God is good --- ALL THE TIME!!!

PF: What advice do you have for others who are considering starting a home-based business?

Stephanie: Seek God. God will let you know if having a home-based business is for you. He will also guide you to the opportunity that is right for you and your family.

For more information about Mary Kay, visit Stephanie's web page or email her at sgulland@marykay.com.

About the Author: Stephanie Gulland is married to her best friend, Ed, and they have one son, David. She has been a Mary Kay consultant since April 1, 2006 (No Fooling!). You can contact her via email at sgulland@marykay.com or by visiting her website at www.marykay.com/sgulland.

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