Where to look when business feels hard

Sarah owned a small retail store selling vintage clothing that wasn't growing the way she'd expected. She was working way too hard for far too little, and wasn't clear on how to right the ship. Sarah realized she needed help - and fast.

Photo by Anna Shvets

If you want your business to grow to the point where you're getting a positive return on all your resources (ROR), chances are good you'll need help along the way. Just like Sarah. When I'm working with clients, here are a few places I recommend you look first:

1. Seek help with your finances: If you lack financial experience and expertise, consider hiring a professional to help maximize profits, limit risk, and ensure your business's success. For example, advanced tax services can help you get the best guidance, so your next tax bill and payment are stress-free. From taxes to financial planning, leaving it to the experts can minimize stress and maximize profits, making it a worthwhile investment for your business.
2. Set and maintain clear goals: Having clear goals in mind will help you know what steps to take and how to reach your dreams. Start by setting small goals that will help you work your way up to more significant milestones. Course correcting or creating new goals can also help you stay proactive and ensure that you have something to strive for.
3. Respect and appreciate your staff: Showing your team (even if it's still just you) respect and appreciation makes for a better, more effective work environment. Showing them you appreciate their efforts helps build a stronger team and a more successful business. Small gestures like offering pay raises or acknowledging an employee's efforts go a long way. Be kind, friendly, and maintain good relationships with your team to strengthen your business. Yes, that means practicing self-care, too. "Do what you can as you are able" is a mantra around Creative Freedom HQ that we use to remind folks that every one of us has a different capacity for work. Honor that truth as a means of respecting your people.
4. Focus less on mistakes and more on your wins: Every person and every business makes mistakes. That's how we learn and grow. Learn from them, but don't dwell on them. Focus on learning and growing from your mistakes to maintain a positive mindset and focus on your business's strengths. Celebrate wins and create a positive feedback loop to encourage yourself and your team to continue on the growth path.

Being proactive and seeking help when needed is crucial to growing and supporting your business. Take the time to analyze your business, seek expert guidance, set clear goals, appreciate your team, and learn from your mistakes. Remember, success doesn't happen overnight, but with hard work, dedication, and the right support, you can achieve your dreams.