Ian Wiedenman blog

I grew my company ITW Creative Works from a start-up to a thriving creative development agency through strategic business growth and strong client relationships.

Why I Continue to Add New Projects: The Motivation Behind My Journey

Why I Continue to Add New Projects: The Motivation Behind My Journey
Entrepreneurship Business Growth Personal Development 10 min read 11 comments

Discover the motivations and strategies behind Ian Wiedenman's continuous drive to launch new innovative projects and expand his entrepreneurial journey.


The Journey Begins: From Somiibo to a Growing Empire

Oh, where to begin? Let’s rewind to the days when I was just dipping my toes into the vast ocean of entrepreneurship. Somiibo was my first big splash, my maiden voyage into the world of solopreneurship. I can still remember the sleepless nights, the countless cups of coffee, and that intoxicating mix of excitement and fear. Think of it like trying to bake a cake without a recipe—lots of trial and error, but oh, the sweet reward when you finally get it right!

Somiibo wasn’t just a project; it was a learning experience, a testing ground for my wildest ideas. It was there that I honed my skills, made my mistakes, and learned the ropes. You know, the usual story—building something from scratch, facing setbacks, and celebrating those small victories that feel like winning the lottery. Funny thing is, those early days with Somiibo laid the foundation for what would eventually become a growing empire.

After Somiibo, I realized that one project was simply not enough to quench my entrepreneurial thirst. Enter Slapform.com and StudyMonkey.ai, my next brainchildren. Slapform was like that eureka moment when you discover a new favorite food; it was deliciously satisfying to create something that people found genuinely useful. StudyMonkey.ai, on the other hand, felt like adopting a pet—nurturing it, training it, and watching it grow into something amazing. Each new project brought its own set of challenges and triumphs, adding layers to my ever-expanding empire.

But let’s not kid ourselves—managing multiple projects is no walk in the park. It’s more like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. Yet, it’s this very juggling act that keeps me motivated and passionate. There’s something incredibly exhilarating about pushing boundaries and exploring new frontiers. It’s like being an adventurer, charting unknown territories and finding hidden treasures along the way.

So, as I look back, I see a journey marked by growth, innovation, and an unyielding desire to create. From the humble beginnings of Somiibo to the diverse portfolio of projects I now manage, each step has been a testament to my relentless drive and unquenchable curiosity. And trust me, this is just the beginning. The road ahead is long, winding, and full of possibilities—exactly the way I like it.

Why New Projects Ignite My Passion: The Driving Forces

Alright, let’s dive into the juicy part—why I can’t seem to stop adding new projects to my already jam-packed plate. Spoiler alert: It’s not because I secretly enjoy sleepless nights or have a vendetta against free time. Nope, the driving forces behind my insatiable hunger for new ventures are far more compelling (and a lot more fun).

First off, let’s talk about curiosity. Ever since I launched Somiibo, my curiosity has been my North Star. I have this insatiable itch to explore the unknown, to dive headfirst into new challenges, and to unravel the mysteries of uncharted territories. It’s like being on a constant treasure hunt, except the treasure is the sheer joy of discovery. Each new project, whether it’s Slapform or StudyMonkey.ai, feels like a new chapter in an adventure novel that I just can’t put down.

Then there’s the thrill of innovation. Who doesn’t love a good eureka moment? When an idea clicks, it’s like fireworks going off in my brain. I’m constantly on the lookout for ways to improve, innovate, and disrupt the status quo. It’s not just about creating something new; it’s about creating something better, something that can make a real difference. And let’s be honest, there’s something extremely satisfying about seeing an idea come to life and knowing that it’s making a positive impact.

But wait, it’s not all just fun and games. There’s a deeper, more meaningful reason behind my entrepreneurial journey. It’s the desire to leave a legacy. I want to build something that outlasts me, something that continues to provide value long after I’ve moved on to the next big thing. Each project is a piece of that legacy puzzle, contributing to a larger picture that I hope will inspire others.

Of course, we can’t forget about the community. The people I’ve met, the relationships I’ve built, and the collaborations I’ve enjoyed are invaluable. There’s a certain magic in working with like-minded individuals who share your passion and vision. It’s like being part of a dynamic, ever-evolving family that constantly pushes you to be better.

And let’s not underestimate the sheer fun of it all. Yes, running multiple ventures can be stressful, but it’s also incredibly exhilarating. The challenges, the victories, the learning experiences—it’s a rollercoaster ride that I wouldn’t trade for anything. There’s something addictive about the hustle, the grind, and the ultimate satisfaction of seeing your efforts pay off.

So, why do I keep adding new projects? It’s a cocktail of curiosity, innovation, legacy-building, community, and a dash of pure, unadulterated fun. It’s what keeps my entrepreneurial spirit alive and kicking, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. If you’re curious about how I keep all these plates spinning, you can read more about my strategies here. Or, if you want an inside scoop on my daily hustle, check out this blog post.

Balancing Multiple Ventures: Strategies for Success

So, you’ve got this brilliant idea, you launch it, and then, wham! Another idea hits you like a bolt of lightning. And before you know it, you’re juggling multiple projects like a circus performer. Sounds familiar? Well, welcome to my world! Balancing multiple businesses isn’t just about keeping all those metaphorical balls in the air; it’s about doing so with grace, efficiency, and a sprinkle of humor. How do I manage it all, you ask? Buckle up, because I’m about to spill the beans.

First things first, you’ve got to get your priorities straight. I often start my day with a cup of coffee and a to-do list that looks like it belongs to an overachieving octopus. But here’s the trick: I don’t treat every task with the same urgency. It’s all about knowing what needs to be tackled now and what can wait. Think of it as the triage system for your entrepreneurial endeavors. If you’re curious about my detailed productivity hacks, check out my post on my favorite productivity hacks for busy solopreneurs.

Another strategy that works wonders is time blocking. This technique involves dedicating specific blocks of time to different tasks or projects. It sounds simple, but it’s a game-changer. For instance, I might dedicate my mornings to creative tasks like brainstorming new features for Slapform.com, while afternoons are reserved for administrative duties. This way, I ensure that each project gets its fair share of my attention without driving myself bonkers.

But let’s not kid ourselves. Balancing multiple ventures isn’t always a walk in the park. There are days when it feels like I’m spinning plates on top of a unicycle. That’s where delegation comes into play. No, you don’t have to do everything yourself. Trust me, letting go can be liberating. I rely on a network of trusted collaborators to handle aspects of my projects where their expertise shines. Curious about the power of collaboration? Dive into my thoughts on why I don’t do it all alone.

Now, let’s talk about staying motivated. Juggling multiple projects can sometimes feel like swimming against the tide. But here’s a little secret: I keep my motivation levels high by focusing on the big picture and celebrating small wins along the way. Whether it’s launching a new feature or hitting a milestone, these little victories keep the fire burning. If you need some inspiration to stay motivated, check out my post on how I stay motivated amidst multiple ongoing projects.

Lastly, tech tools are your best friends. From project management software to time-tracking apps, there’s a tool out there for every need. Personally, I swear by a few trusty tools that help me keep my projects on track and my sanity intact. You can find out more about the tools I use to manage multiple projects successfully.

Balancing multiple ventures is a wild ride, but with the right strategies, it’s totally doable—and dare I say, enjoyable. Remember, it’s not about doing more but doing what matters. So, go ahead, take the plunge, juggle those projects, and enjoy the journey. After all, life’s too short to play it safe!

Looking Forward: The Future of My Entrepreneurial Path

So, what does the future hold for my entrepreneurial journey? Oh, if only I had a crystal ball! But alas, I don’t. However, that doesn’t stop me from dreaming big and planning even bigger. The future of entrepreneurship, at least for me, is a tantalizing blend of unpredictable challenges and exhilarating opportunities. Let’s dive into what I envision for the road ahead.

Firstly, I see a continuous evolution of my projects. Somiibo was just the beginning—a mere spark that ignited a wildfire of ideas and ventures. Each new project, whether it’s Slapform.com or StudyMonkey.ai, has its own unique flavor, and I imagine myself constantly refining and expanding these platforms to meet the ever-changing needs of users. The tech world moves at breakneck speed, and staying ahead of the curve is both a necessity and a thrill.

But it’s not just about keeping up with trends. I want to be a trendsetter. Innovation will remain at the heart of my endeavors. Who knows? Maybe the next big thing is already simmering in my mind, waiting for the right moment to leap into the world. The key is to stay curious, stay hungry, and never stop learning. Whether it’s diving into the latest AI advancements or exploring the potential of blockchain technology, I’m committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Of course, balancing these ambitions with practical realities is crucial. As much as I love juggling multiple projects, I also recognize the importance of focus and prioritization. There’s an art to managing a diverse portfolio, and it’s something I’ve been honing over the years. Balancing ambition and reality is a dance I’ve come to enjoy, even when I occasionally trip over my own feet.

Looking forward, I also see a stronger emphasis on building a community. Entrepreneurship can be a lonely road, but it doesn’t have to be. I want to foster connections with like-minded individuals who share my passion for innovation and creativity. Whether it’s through collaborations, mentorship programs, or simply sharing my experiences and lessons learned, I aim to create a supportive network that empowers others to take the leap into entrepreneurship.

And let’s not forget about the inevitable bumps along the way. Every entrepreneur faces setbacks, and I’ll be no exception. But instead of fearing failure, I embrace it as a learning opportunity. Each misstep is a stepping stone towards success, and I’m ready to tackle whatever obstacles come my way. After all, embracing failure has always been part of my strategy.

In the grand scheme of things, the future of my entrepreneurial path is a thrilling mystery. Will I continue to diversify my projects? Absolutely. Will I keep innovating? You bet. Will there be surprises and challenges? Without a doubt. But one thing’s for sure—I’ll be charging forward with the same passion and enthusiasm that got me started in the first place.

So, here’s to the future—the uncharted territories, the unexplored ideas, and the endless possibilities. Buckle up, because this journey is far from over. And if you’re curious about what drives me, check out what keeps me going and why I believe in diversifying my ventures. The best is yet to come!

About

Follow my journey as a solopreneur, and my evolution from launching Somiibo, a single project, to expanding my empire with multiple innovative projects like Slapform.com, StudyMonkey.ai, and more