Completely Dependent On Tech And Digital World: Ramya Abhinand, Blogger

At any point in your journey were you stuck with self-doubt?  

At a time when the digital world is flooded with the content of sorts, I wasn't sure if I could make my words heard. I would often ask myself, why would anyone want to read my writing? Would my words be of any meaning to anybody? To deal with it, I worked on being myself and bringing in my original style of writing - to every review and every single post of mine. This helped me reach. It helped garner my own niche audience.

What have been your greatest challenges and struggles in your entrepreneurial journey?

Being married to a man in the forces, my greatest challenge was balancing work amidst the frequent transfers we encounter. There have been times when despite all the packing and unpacking of my home, I have had to be online, networking and speaking with publishers.

With the husband's constant absence thanks to him being on duty, the entire home front was solely on my shoulders. I would be tired at the end of the day, managing children and other domestic responsibilities. Yet there were posts to be done and reviews to go up. The deadline had to be met. I would work late in the nights after the family would be asleep.

As a woman entrepreneur would you say you have faced discrimination in your journey?  

Never really faced discrimination in the blogging front with respect to my gender. However, there have been moments when my role as a blogger was seldom taken seriously as a venture. It was more about being an activity to keep myself busy. The extended family would often stress the fact that my primary role was always to care for the family.

What do you think women entrepreneurs need more of, from venture capitalists, government policymakers, start-up support programs and others? And Why?

Firstly, women entrepreneurs need moral support from their families. There are high chances of self-doubt, considering the patriarchy that exists in our society. Hence the immediate family must be a strong backbone.

Secondly, venture capitalists must evaluate her start-up purely on the basis of her capability.

Thirdly, start-up support programs to guide them through marketing procedures and financial aid options.

I am completely dependent on the tech and digital world to spread my thoughts and words. It brought readers from across the world to my blog. Sitting in a remote part of the globe, from within my home, I could reach audiences in different countries.

What would you say have been your greatest learning on your journey? 

My learning has been – that the digital sphere is expanding at an enormous rate. There are opportunities everywhere in different forms. All I needed to do was keep my eyes and ears open. Content consumption is relevant in every way provided I stick to my tone. I don't need to be like any other content creator.

What advice would you share with other women looking to become entrepreneurs? 

If you are passionate, if you have the drive, go for it and nothing can stop you.