module one

Welcome,

I'm thrilled to have you here as you embark on this creative journey! Let's dive into what this first module entails so you can get a sense of what lies ahead.

  • We'll start by covering the fundamentals of this course.

  • You'll have the opportunity to craft your mission statement.

  • We'll delve into what you aim to contribute to the world through your digital presence.

  • ...and you'll discover your name (if you haven't already).

You've got weeks of creative exploration ahead, and my aim is for you to extract every ounce of value from this course. My goal is for you to create a website that resonates deeply with your soul. To achieve that, we need to tap into your soul's language. I understand that articulating your vision can be challenging, which is why we'll be working with visuals, emotions, and plenty of prompts.

Once you begin the course, you'll have instant access to all six modules. This self-paced format allows you to engage with the content whenever you're ready. While I recommend working through one module per week, the pace is entirely up to you. The exercises within these modules are designed to inspire you to pour your heart onto the page, resulting in a website that authentically reflects who you are and what you stand for. That's why I suggest purchasing a notebook or journal specifically for the practices in this course. Of course, if you prefer digital tools, many opt for digital paper for its convenience in copying, pasting, and editing.
Evernote is an excellent and free app for those seeking writing software.

“Don't be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth.”

― Rumi

Let’s embark on this journey.

When I first explored the idea of starting my own business I was so enthusiastic. I found myself constantly brainstorming and daydreaming about it. I had a vivid vision of what Nabalo was meant to evolve into, and whenever I closed my eyes, it was crystal clear. However, translating that vision into words proved challenging when I tried to convey it to others. So, I began by writing down what Nabalo symbolized, how it felt, and the future I envisioned for it. I wrote down my dreams, goals, and everything I hoped to bring into the world through this digital platform, my online portal. And in the process of putting my dreams into words I uncovered my Mission Statement. Writing this statement helped me to focus on the core of my business, it helped me to gain confidence regarding my dreams and it definitely helped me to share with others why I do what I do and what Nabalo is all about.

A mission statement is different from a business description; it encapsulates the essence of your business description. We will dive deeper into your business description later, I want you to start with exploring your path of purpose.

Uncover your mission statement.

This is where it all starts, that intuitive nudge, that voice in the back of your mind, that feeling that is always there. I encourage you to grab pen and paper, take a moment to yourself and start writing down your dreams for your business or website. Keep writing until the vision crystallizes, until your statement reveals itself. Often, clarity births your statement in one or two sentences, emerging from your writing with powerful words steeped in emotion. If you need some questions to get you started:

  • Where does your joy comes from?

  • What do you believe in?

  • What were you born to do?

  • What do you envision for your online space?

Your business and brand description.

Now that you've uncovered your mission, writing your business and brand description will be a whole lot easier! I want you to write down a couple of sentences straight from the heart, without overthinking it, describing what your business is all about. Imagine you only have 30 seconds to explain what you do. How would you use your words? We will dive deeper into the soul of your website when you're going to write your website manifest in module three, so keep this short and direct.

Your business name.

I'm assuming you've already found your business name. If you haven't yet, please dedicate some time to this and really connect with a name that resonates with you. Your intuition is your true guide here; trust it! If you need assistance, start by listing every word associated with your business and your dreams, or answer the following questions to kick-start your brainstorming session:

  • What do you want your name to communicate?

  • Is there a connection between the purpose of your business and the chosen name?

Why you need to plan a website photography shoot.

High resolution pictures can make a huge difference for your website, so I advise you to schedule a fun shoot with a photographer. Having your beautiful smile welcoming people to your website can be a great way for your customers or audience to feel connected to you. Even if you don’t like to be in the spotlight, you can have a photographer do a lifestyle shoot of your products, workspace, or your favorite places in nature. Here are some examples. If a shoot is not within your budget or comfort-zone you can also go to Unsplash and use their stock photography for free.

Module One Homework.

  • Uncover your mission statement. This can be made into a beautiful ritual!

  • Write your business description, you can keep editing this along the way, but it’s important to start crafting this.

  • Find your business name. I like to mention this early so you have a few weeks to really feel if the name fits you.

  • Plan a website photography shoot with someone you can be yourself with. Or start saving some stock photography to your device.