WRAP grad shares 10 secrets to business, program success

"In my dreams, I always owned a bookstore," says Darlene Ashe, "a welcoming, child-friendly used bookstore where I could help parents select books for their children and I would develop reading programs for all kids."

And Darlene's dream came true last fall with the opening of Read for your Life, a children's bookstore in uptown Waterloo, Ontario. But dreaming wasn't what made it happen, she told a recent Waterloo MEDA chapter breakfast meeting.

Darlene is a graduate of WRAP – Waterloo Region ASSETS Program – a 10-week business training program that teaches individuals how to start their own micro business by learning business skills, including how to write a comprehensive business plan and cash flow statement.

WRAP, says Darlene, also taught her 10 secrets to being successful in the program –lessons that can apply to many endeavors:

1. Wake up each day with a positive attitude.
2. Make sure you get enough sleep the night before.
3. Eat nutritionally so your brain can function.
4. Pay attention in class and participate in discussions.
5. Do your homework – no whining, no excuses.
6. Take advice from whomever you can.
7. Accept constructive criticism.
8. Work hard and give the program your best effort.
9. Be positive and grateful that you have a chance to be a part of this program.
10. Be thankful you have fellow contributors and mentors in the program who also work hard.

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