How to Keep Showing Up For Your Business (Even When You Feel Like Quitting)

Mar 24

I started my business with a ten-month-old and after about a year of that, we sold our house. I was going through a lot of life changes and very quickly had to learn how to get as much done as I possibly could on a very tight budget. You know what it taught me?

You have to give attention to the things making you money.

I've learned tons of lessons throughout my business, but learning how to kick shiny object syndrome to the curb was a big one.

Most businesses don't last five years…and I'm on year seven with consistent growth in my business. It may not have been the fastest growth, but it's been sustainable and allowed me to get through the last few years of you know what while enjoying some vacations on the beach with work-free Fridays along the way.

I don't want to sit in a million-dollar mansion (but if you do, that's okay too). I just want some time off to enjoy some Ben and Jerry's ice cream in bed while watching a good Housewives marathon!

2021 was my most successful year to date, and it comes after year four of doubling revenue.

I know that being a business owner is hard, and a lot of days, you want to throw in the towel, but I wanted to encourage you with some practical tips that you can get through the thick of it and keep moving things forward.

Focus on One Service Offer

The pressure is on to say yes to #AllTheThings, but it will not get you as far as you think. I'd dare say it's actually hurting your business.

Taking all the video jobs. Editing projects for friends. Offering video editing on top of everything else.

In the last two years, I doubled down and just offered ONE thing in my agency, and it was the ONLY way people could work with me. No exceptions.

It was so hard to say no. It kind of felt like I was being a disappointment not only to my current and potential clients, but also to myself. But I knew for my own mental well-being and the mental well-being of my team, I had to say no.

It got easier, and it will for you too. You have to visualize the bigger picture and keep in mind where you want to be every time you decide if you should take on that new project or not.

I got clear on the type of person I wanted to work with. Again, turning down work is no fun, but you can't be everything to everyone.

Stop Trying to do All Types of Video Content If You Don't Have the Energy

I'm aware that this sentiment goes against my course, but honestly? The most important thing is that you take care of yourself. You're not going to create quality content if you're burning out on both ends.

If you have time, and the mental capacity, to take on Reels and TikToks, etc., then do it! But if you're pressed for time and feel like one more thing will send you over the edge, just stay focused on YouTube. It's the best video lead anyway.

I grew TIRED of creating so much content. I wanted to be posting engaging in all my social media platforms so bad, but I just didn't have the time.

First, I cut LinkedIn, then Facebook, and for the past six weeks, I've been off Instagram (launching a course will do that to you!). I'm instead focusing my energy on my YouTube channel because this is where I'm making bank and where my content lives the longest.

One Word — Minimalism

Less is more when it comes to video equipment. You're not running a production studio for the next Marvel movie. You don't need tons of cameras and lighting equipment. You just need a couple of simple pieces of equipment to make quality videos.

I'm not talking about material stuff either. For the love of all that is good in this world — stop buying courses if you aren't going to do them!

I committed myself to ONE course every quarter if that. I try to pick one or two people that I want to learn from and work on implementing everything I learn throughout the entire year. In 2021, I joined Digital Insiders, which was the only course or program I bought.

I try not to listen to business podcasts anymore, either. It's just too much business stuff all the time. I don't want to get stuck with another idea or something new and shiny that I feel pressured to implement into my business.

Instead, you can catch me listening to Ear Biscuit, Smartless, and Bravo recap podcasts!

Change the Way I Look at My Schedule and Finances

I only plan 90 days at a time. Not monthly, not yearly. I found that this is the sweet spot of getting ahead without overwhelming myself. Then, each quarter, I reevaluate and go from there.

I focus on three projects each quarter, like challenges, launches, and planning for my membership.

I also block my calendar to have less time and openings to do things. I know that sounds a bit counterproductive, but it actually helps me stay balanced, so I can be more productive in the long run.

I try to combine everything I can with my expenses, so I'm only paying for what I really need. I talk with my accountant every month to see if I've gone over budget and, if so, what needs to go.