The spark, the work and yes, the reward

Successful entrepreneurs. They're inspiring.

Real You Incorporated: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs is about to launch, and one of the most exciting parts of the book is my ability to introduce you to just some of the amazing entrepreneurs I've been priveledged to meet, interview, laugh with, and share with over the course of my last two decades in business.

Earlier in my career, while working for different advertising agencies, I could spot the entrepreneurial clients the moment the meeting began. It's a special spark, a flame of creativity. A passion. As a marketing executive for several large service companies, I had the privelege of packaging that spark into break-through brands. And at the helm of my own writing business, each time I interview an entrepreneur I smile. It's fun and inspiring.

That's why I've featured 24 real stories in the book, with more being added all the time to my website . Real women with real stories of success. Perhaps you'll find a story there to inspire you, or if you're already an entrepreneur, you'll find yourself reflected in the pages.

What else do all of these entrepreneurs have in common? Hard work, of course. Businesses don't just happen. But they do when entrepreneurs find it within themselves to create a unique brand and bring it to the world. Authentically. With purpose.

Every 60 seconds a woman starts a business. Maybe this is your spark's time?