First things first. Small business owners are not so inclined to confess how they are feeling about their own small business ... especially when they are stressed to the point where their jaw feels perpetually locked in one position. Well I have a few confessions to make. I hope these truths will help other entrepreneurs along their journey. Cause we're all in this together, right?

Confession #1 - Staying in business is a lot tougher than starting one.

I had to learn this by doing. Starting a business is an adrenaline rush. Your friends and family are excited ... they show up for you. Agencies offer start-up funding, training and mentorship. I know. I worked for one. You're the next new thing and our society appreciates new. And when those lights fade it can feel lonely.  I'm blessed with family and friends near and far who are there for me in a heart-beat. But they don't know I need help if I don't ask for it. Don't be afraid to ask.

Confession #2 - Being the master of your own destiny is scary sh*t.

There, I said it. I don't know one entrepreneur who hasn't broken out in a cold sweat when they let themselves think about the risks they've taken and what they stand to lose. It's okay to think it. It's okay to say it. Just don't let it beat you down. Says Bidemi Mark-Mordi: “The human spirit is like an elastic band. The more you stretch, the greater your capacity."

Confession #3 - I don't know everything.

This is the hard part because entrepreneurs ARE expected to be the experts. We've done the research, prepared the business plans, developed our unique value proposition, and tested our products and services with prospective customers. But there are lessons in running a business that can only be learned by doing. And failing.

Stand in your business every day. Interact with staff, customers, suppliers, and partners. Listen to them. Don't take offence. Just listen for recurring themes and for opportunities to adjust and improve. Small tweaks can make for huge gains. And never forget to say thank you.

Confession #4 - I want to make a difference AND I want to make money.

I believe that: "If you do the right thing, the money will follow." I continuously search for ethically responsible fashions and gift items to sell in my two shops known as the Sweet Brier Boutique. I showcase the creations of more than 20 female entrepreneurs in my two stores. I support social entrepreneurs like Wear Your Label, All-Ways-Us, Morning Star Couture and Inner Fire. I care about my hometown. I volunteer.

However, some smart people ... my mother and father, my mentors (Danny, Cindy, Lisa, Crystal, Mary Jane), tell me that the greatest thing I can do to help others is to be successful myself.  (Let me just say that hard truths like these are never easy to hear. Don't they know I want to help others ... that it's my calling?!)

I spoke with a gentleman named Ray who 'reps' several lines of clothing I have been looking at for the Sweet Brier. Ray has met countless business owners over the years. I'm still thinking about something he said: "The successful ones ... the ones that stay in business for years, make money, and give back to their communities ... have one key characteristic in common. They focus with precision on one or two products or ideas that they firmly believe in and they go for it with all they've got. Luke warm is no good."

Confession #5:  I'm turning up the temperature and giving it everything I've got.

Heather Spidell is a PR gal who left the private sector to become a boutique owner and author. She is pro small business, ethical fashion and tidal power development (her hometown of Parrsboro is at the centre of it all). She loves her family, dogs and goats.