Hey there, you fabulous entrepreneurs and go-getters! Today, let’s have another dose of unfiltered wisdom & talk about the remarkable journey of small, female-owned businesses and the time and effort it takes to achieve that sweet success. The stats say that it takes 7-10 years for a business to be successful! But first – a reminder:
Success is different to everyone
Knowing what “success” means to you is vital. We see SO much filtered bullshizzle out there from 7-figure business owners and their overnight success! PLEASE see the smoke and mirrors for exactly what they are. Generally running a business is like climbing a mountain in stilettos while juggling flaming hoops, while some kids ask for snacks while screaming that their brother is looking at them “too much”. But let me tell you, ladies, the rewards are oh-so-worth it!
So success – know what you’re aiming for. Time flexibility to do school runs or take the dog into the Peaks is very different to time freedom. Earning a solid, regular £1k a month might be absolutely the pinnacle of success right now – and it’s a brilliant place to start! I’m sure we’d ALL like to be millionaires – but that’s not the same as being successful. Know what it means to you – and allow it to change as you grow.
The Stereotype
First thing first, let’s address the elephant in the room: the stereotype. Society still loves to throw these preconceived notions our way, suggesting that women should be nurturing, gentle and take a backseat when it comes to business. Well, forget all that bollocks! As female business owners, we are fierce, trailblazing, and ready to conquer the world. We break barriers and pave our own way. So let’s embrace our unique strengths and show the world what we’re made of! Also – I can be as nurturing and gentle as I choose. MY CHOICE!
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(Me and my gorgeous mate Clare Mannion from She is Strong! We are STRONG AF!)
Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of the time and effort it takes to succeed. Building a business from scratch is like planting a seed. It needs nurturing, care, and patience to grow into something magnificent. Rome wasn’t built in a day apparently, and your business won’t be either. So it is important that you know from the off – you will have to choose to put in the time and effort. I often feel like I can predict which businesses will work when I speak to business owners – often based on their passion and willingness to embrace and implement what we’ve talked about.
As a small business owner, you wear multiple hats. You’re the CEO, the accountant, the marketing guru, the customer service representative, and the janitor all rolled into one. Phew! It’s a lot, I know. But here’s the secret sauce: time management – or more accurately using your time effectively. By prioritising your tasks, setting realistic goals, and spending your time on the actual money-making activities, you can avoid burnout and make progress towards your dreams.
Persevere
Now, let’s talk about perseverance. As a female entrepreneur, you’ll face challenges that your male counterparts may not necessarily encounter – and that you never dreamed of. I was in a room with a guy lately who made sexist “joke” after “joke”. He was called out and he genuinely didn’t know – and he’d probably been telling these same “jokes” for YEARS! It’s insane – and it’s consistent. You might encounter biases or stereotypes along the way, but honestly, don’t let that deter you. Grin, correct and educate and remember, you are capable, resilient, and resourceful. Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow – you’ve heard me talk about failing forward right? So when the going gets tough, remember why you started and keep pushing forward. You’ve got this!
Look After Yourself
Let’s not forget the importance of self-care amidst the hustle and bustle. Running a business can be all-consuming, but it’s crucial to carve out time for yourself. Take breaks, indulge in hobbies, and spend quality time with loved ones. Self-care is not all bubble baths and Netflix. It can be finally reading a book in the garden, it can be getting up an hour earlier to do some exercise, it can be cooking nourishing food. Remember, a well-rested and rejuvenated mind is the secret ingredient to long-term success. You ARE your business. They’re not separate entities, however much we might treat them as such.
Keep Learning
Another massive red flag when I look at how healthy a business is gets waved when the owner stops learning! Remember at the start when it felt like you were constantly learning new things? Did you get to a “comfortable” (it’s not really though is it?) place and stop? Learning and implementing your learning is one of the best ways to drive your business forwards! If you don’t have time, watch short online videos. It’s why I created Business Club in the way that I did – it’s short and manageable, you can search for what you want and there’s just loads of inspiration to keep you going! If you spend ANY time in your day scrolling social, then you can’t tell me you don’t have time for learning!!
Community
Lastly, let’s celebrate the power of community. I don’t think I bought into this enough for a LONG time – and I genuinely think my business would be a couple of years ahead now if I had. I cannot say this enough. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who uplift and inspire you. Join (good!) networking groups both online & in-person, attend conferences and seek mentorship from successful women who have paved the way before you. Together, we rise, and the support we offer one another is immeasurable. You are VERY welcome to join my free Facebook Group – but community only works if you lean into it. Ask all the questions, offer up your experiences. Get involved!
So, my fellow fierce females, embrace the journey ahead with open arms. The road may be long, and the effort required might sometimes feel overwhelming, and you will absolutely feel at times like you’re drowning in guilt but know that every step you take brings you closer to your dreams, to your version of success. Trust yourself, stay true to your vision, and let your passion guide you. Success is just around the corner, and I can’t wait to see you rock the world with your ‘small’ (you know it doesn’t have to stay that way unless you want it to right?), female-owned business!
Leave me any comments below, drop me a message, come and hang out – and let’s get building our business!
