Crib Sheet #78: Skills for Success’ Rachel Bernstein.

Rachel just launched her business after leaving her life as a teacher. She turned her educational know-how into a neat business where she can continue to help students grow. Read on to find out what Rachel came up with…

What business did you start up?

I recently started Skills for Success.  I work with middle and high school students who struggle with organization, time management, and effective studying.

What motivated you to do it?

After teaching high school for eight years, I needed a break.  I love working with students but I wanted to help them in a way that I couldn’t in my classroom.  Also, I was looking for a more flexible schedule that wasn’t dictated by a bell every 52 minutes, so I could spend more time with my young daughter.

How many children do you have, and how old are they?

My daughter is two years old.

How long have you been running your business?

Since September 2012.

How long did it take you to start becoming profitable and/or successful, however you choose to measure success?

That’s a good question that I can’t answer yet.  If I don’t count childcare as a business expense, then I am just barely profitable.  If I do, then I’m still very much in the red.  I will consider my business successful when I have six to eight regular clients, at least two more in the pipeline, and I have a once-a-month seminar or parent talk schedule.

How did your family react to you starting your own business?

My husband and extended family were all very supportive.

Easiest part of your job?

Helping students. It’s what I love. I really enjoy working with people to solve problems.

Hardest part of your job?

Getting the word out to parents and schools.

What skill would you most like to improve?

I’d like to improve my public speaking with adult audiences.  I spoke in front of teenagers every day and didn’t think twice about it.  Parents make me more nervous.

What tools or advice do you wish you knew then that you know now?

Oh, I’m still learning tons every day!

What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?

I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished working part-time in less than four months.  I’m in the process of building a great network, I post regularly on my blog, and I’ve already helped students improve their grades and develop life skills.

Favorite part of a typical day?

The flexibility to schedule my day as I choose.  No more school bells every 52 minutes telling me where to go and what to do!

And a few more questions, considering that American Express should be featuring more mom entrepreneurs…

Childhood ambition? It changed every couple of months.

Time of day you get the most work done? 11 AM to 2 PM.

Last purchase? Everything I’ve bought in the last month has been a gift for someone else.  Time for some Rachel shopping!

Favorite book or magazine? The Book Thief is awesome. Also currently reading 11/22/63, which is fantastic.

Inspiration? Sunshine, kids of all ages, dark chocolate.

Least likely to…..spend more than 30 seconds on makeup.

My life…..is full of love.  I’ve also finally achieved a work-life balance that works for me–and I love it!