Sometimes running a small business can feel nothing short of juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle… on a tightrope… in a blizzard. Sound dramatic? Maybe. But any business owner will tell you—running a business is a lot especially running a business in a recession.
It may be exciting, and rewarding, but sometimes it gets messy, and yes,— sometimes a little chaotic. The good news is with a few key habits and strategies in place, you can set yourself up for long-term success. Whether you’re just getting started or already deep in the game, here are five ways to give your small business the best chance to thrive.
Stay Consistent (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It)
Let’s be real—some days you’re fired up and ready to take on the world, and other days not so much. Yet consistency is key. It’s what separates a side hobby from a successful business. From showing up on social media, to answering emails, to updating your website, its going to take being there even when you don’t feel 100%. Consistency builds trust, and trust builds loyalty.
Know Your Numbers
Yes, the creative side of running a business is fun—but ignoring your finances is a one-way ticket to burnout. You must know what’s coming in, what’s going out, and where every single dollar and cent is going.
That doesn’t mean you necessarily need to be a math genius or a spreadsheet fanatic, but you should have a basic understanding of things like profit margins, expenses, and pricing. Because knowing these things can literally make or break your business. Set aside time each week to check in with your money and your future self will thank you.
Connect With Your Audience
Your business depends on your audience to survive. Whether you’re selling handmade jewelry or offering design services, your audience is everything. Talk to them, ask for feedback, listen to what they want, and actually care. Engage with them like real humans in an authentic way. From Instagram, to your emails, the more connected your audience feels to you, the more likely they are to support your business again and again.
Be Willing to Pivot
The hard truth is that things will not always go according to plan. And that’s okay. Some ideas might flop, and some products might not sell. But instead of seeing it as a failure, see it as an opportunity for growth. The most successful small business owners are the ones who are willing to adapt and try something new. Keep your ears open, your ego in check, and your mind flexible.
Take Care of Yourself
The reality is that running a business can be exhausting. You wear all the hats—from marketing to customer service to bookkeeping—you seriously risk burnout. Burnout is real, and it’s sneaky. That’s why you must avoid it at all costs by taking care of yourself.
