Can you tell us about the businesses you run, and why you left modelling to start those businesses?
I am an author (I just released my second book!), mobile app creator, ebook writer, branding/social media consultant, and lifestyle blogger. I didn’t mean to end up doing all of these though! I was modelling and started to learn about health, and through the began to share my journey on social media during a time when it was not nearly as big or powerful as it is now.
By being authentic in my struggles, I attracted a community, which then led to me publishing various work. Everything that I’ve shared with my audience comes from a place that I do it to improve my own life, and because I’ve shared what works and what doesn’t with my community, they naturally trust what I promote.
This has led to me creating my 5-Day Detox, first as an ebook which sold 100,000 copies through Instagram, turning that into an app, which went #1 in 6 countries , followed by a two book deal with Random House. I never intended to do all this, but have just gone with the wind in a sense and whatever my community asks for that’s what I deliver.
Congrats on releasing your SECOND book! How has this experience been different than writing and releasing your first book?
It’s a blessing in that I knew what to expect with this one, so the stress was less in a sense. And it was also a catch 22, because I knew what was coming each step and how stressful it would be! Haha! I have learned so much since the first one in terms of human behavior, addiction, nutrition, and so this new book reflects all of this. I also am planning the book launch much better this time around and so it’s definitely been a bit more fun to be hyper organized!
What’s the best aspect of being an entrepreneur?
Setting my own schedule (which again is a catch 22 because you have to be very structured and motivated on your own!) and being able to travel when and wherever I want. I’ve created a job that I can do anywhere in the world and this is one of my greatest joys. It’s also incredibly rewarding to be working on my own projects each day, knowing that they are my passion and help others – rather than working on someone else’s dreams.
What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs who are trying to build their own brand?
Here are the questions I would have them answer:
1. Why are you starting a brand and how is it different than someone else? (They key for this question is to tap into the WHY you do it and your passion behind it)
2. How do you plan to build an audience/ community? (This is more important than putting out a product to start)
3. What will you do for work to sustain an income while building a brand?
Most people think their brand or product will go viral overnight. They quit their job and then don’t understand that you lose your passion in the process of this, a lot of money, and get incredibly frustrated. I always tell people to take a step back and have a well-paying job until their brand or product is making enough money to step away, and to build a community first.
How has working with our founder Katrina McKay as a business growth coach helped you grow your business?
She helped me see things from a different point of view, which is essential to everyone! We have a hard time seeing our work from a birds eye view and she helps you to understand the macro and micro problems, and also solutions. It’s been a joy to hear her advice and she’s really helped me to become more confident in my own skills.
What’s been the most difficult decision you’ve had to make in the past twelve months?
To leave a well-paying client after feeling like they weren’t treating me with very much respect. I walked away from a lot of money, but it was worth it for my values.
What’s the easiest decision you’ve had to make in the past twelve months?
To give everything I have into my book launch to make it a success!
Where haven’t you travelled yet that you’d love to go? And where have you been that you want to travel back to and why?
I can’t wait to head back to Positano which I’m doing for my birthday in June. And I would love to go to India, which I’m hoping to do in September.
What’s one thing you’re proud of in your personal life? What’s one thing you’re proud of when it comes to your professional life?
Personal: doing things that scare me, like moving across the world solo to 7 countries, and never allowing my fears to take over my dreams. Professional: the success I’ve had by 30! (publishing 2 books, creating a #1 app, selling 100k ebooks, and becoming a business consultant)
Editor’s Note: Order Nikki’s second book, ‘Meal Prep Your Way to Weight Loss’, here.
