The Border's small business owners left breakfast feeling inspired and motivated on Friday morning after they heard the challenges their peers were facing.
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About 50 people showed at River Deck Cafe in Albury to hear from guest speakers and network with other entrepreneurs.
The event was part of the the Officeworks Small Business Coach series which aimed to help boost confidence in the small business community.
Speakers Andre Eikmeier of VinoMofo and Sarah Hamilton of Bellabox shared their stories and provide attendees with practical tips they can use to improve their business wellbeing.
Grace Jones, who started her own business Sugar Daisy Candles, was among those who attended the event.
She said the speakers were “really interesting” and the event couldn't have been held in a better place.
“It was great to meet other small business owners, my business is tiny but you've got to start somewhere,” she said.
“It has really encouraged me to keep going.
“It's tough getting your business out there and getting it known.
“I am ready to go home and start printing business cards.
“It has helped me to network and keep persisting in getting my business out there.”
The event addressed how to deal with stress and work-life balance.
Business owners were encouraged to step back from their business more often.
Mr Eikmeier, who spoke at the event, said one of his major challenges was competing against Coles and Woolworths when he began his business.
He said the best part about the event was the knowledge that others are in the same boat.
“This might be the only two hours in the last six months where these guys have stepped back from their businesses,” Mr Eikmeier said.
“The real value is you're sitting here thinking you're the only one going through it, but you have others around you who are in a similar position.
“I shared what my experiences were in the hope people could relate to them.
“Everyone faces challenges in business."
Albury was among nine stops along the east coast to be part of the business series.
National Advertising Manager at Officeworks Simon Davenport said they try to hold the events at small business venues.
“There are a lot of businesses feeling isolated and stressed so we hope today gave them tools to cope with that,” Mr Davenport said.
“The audience was really engaged and we had quite a diverse turnout.”
