Patience and positive energy secret to success
Nelita Behr is the owner of Vinyl X-Press at the Duck Pond Centre in Port Alfred. She has turned this into a success that offers other businesses and individuals the opportunity to market their own brands effectively.
How do you think the roles of women have changed compared to when you were growing up?
Women now have the chance to make a living and also earn money for their family. Women also now have the choice to decide if they want to follow a career or look after their children, or do both.
How does technology assist you in your line of business?
I use technology every single day, otherwise I wouldn’t have a business. The world has changed and technology is a part of that now. Most of my business comes from social media, which is such a powerful tool.
What does your average day consist of in your business?
My days vary from structured to chaos, to be honest. Being a wife, mum and special needs mum, life is mostly unpredictable. My day starts with Bible study and prayer, opening up my shop, emails, WhatsApp, orders and following up. I believe in starting the day with moneymaking activities, while you still have control. Doing physical work and helping clients is my favourite. At the end of the day I like to look at the next day’s work and plan it out so I know when I come in what’s important.
Do you think the 15-year-old version of you would be proud of what you have achieved?
I think 15-year-old Nelita would be proud. When I was 15 I sold biltong and droewors in the school hostel to make some extra money, dreaming to one day have my own business where I could help and save others.
What would you say are your strongest personality traits that assist you in running your business?
Patience. Everything doesn’t just happen when you like it to. Perseverance and patience definitely have helped me. Also, working with people daily, you need to have patience and a positive, friendly energy.