What inspired you to start your business, and how did you turn your
vision into a reality?
I was in one of the best seasons of my life. I just graduated from grad school, was newly married, and had a new baby with my husband. My accounting career was thriving, and I was steadily climbing the corporate ladder. Life was good. I’ve never been one to get comfortable. Stagnation has never been an option for me. I believe in elevation, in continuously setting and accomplishing new goals. So naturally, I found myself asking. What’s next? Entrepreneurship was next for me.
I was all in when the idea of owning a tax franchise came up. I prepared myself financially, spiritually, and mentally. I stepped out on faith. There was no roadmap, no mentor, just a strong belief that I could build something great. With prayer, planning, and perseverance, I launched my first business. Stepping out on faith turned into building something great.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the business world, and
how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a woman in business has been balance. How do you wear your many hats with grace and success? At one point, I was running a business, being a wife, raising children, showing up as a friend, and fulfilling so many other roles. I wanted to give my best in every area, to make sure nothing and no one was left behind. In doing that, I found myself neglecting someone important. Me!
I overcame that challenge by embracing three powerful truths:
1. You can do it all, but balance doesn’t mean perfection.
Wearing multiple hats with grace and success doesn’t mean you won’t face challenges. It doesn’t mean you won’t fail or experience moments where things don’t go as planned. True balance comes from perseverance. It comes from pushing through setbacks, adjusting when needed, and showing yourself grace along the way
2. It’s okay to delegate and receive help.
I had to learn that I don’t have to do everything alone. There is strength in allowing others to support you. Delegating doesn’t make you weak, it makes you wise.
3. Don’t forget the “Me Hat.”
In the midst of pouring into everyone else, I had to remember to pour into myself. You cannot pour from an empty cup, and you are worthy of prioritizing your own well-being.
How do you define success, and what milestones have been most
meaningful in your career so far?
I define success as setting goals and accomplishing them. One of the most meaningful milestones in my career was hitting a decade in business. When I first launched my franchise tax office, there were nearly 10 other similar offices in the New Orleans area. A decade later, I looked around and realized that I was the only one still standing. That was a humbling and gratifying moment. I didn’t just survive. I grew, I adapted, I served my community, and I built something that lasted.
Another powerful milestone was having the opportunity to sell that thriving business to another Black woman. It wasn’t just a sale. It was a full-circle moment that showed me just how far faith and perseverance can take you.
What advice would you give to aspiring female entrepreneurs looking
to break into your industry?
You can do anything you set your mind to. If you want longevity in the tax and financial services industry, lead with professionalism and integrity. We are entrusted with people’s most sensitive financial information. It’s our responsibility to guide them with care, honesty, and expertise. When clients trust you, that trust becomes the foundation of your brand.
One of the best things you can do is find a reputable mentor. Someone who has walked the path you're trying to take. A good mentor will help you avoid unnecessary mistakes, learn from their successes, and fast-track your growth by showing you what works, Also, move at your own pace. Don’t let social media rush your journey or trick you into thinking you’re behind. It’s easy to get distracted by what everyone else is doing. Your timing is your timing. What God has for you is for YOU. When it comes in God’s time. It will be the kind of success that’s meaningful, sustainable, and able to bless and last generations.
Share how readers can support your business and connect with you online:
You can support my work by connecting with me online and sharing my books, services, and upcoming events with others.
Visit my websites:
www.thekandyrose.com
www.inhandsfs.com
Follow me on social media:
Instagram: @thekandyrose | @inhandsfs
Facebook: Kandy Rose EA | InHands Financial Services
YouTube: @thekandyrose
Support my books:
A Woman of Many Hats: Balancing Life’s Roles with Grace and Success
Surviving Life’s Storms: A Journey of Faith, Resilience, and Triumph
…and stay tuned for more powerful tools and resources from InHands Financial Services, including our upcoming financial literacy app and board game!