Treat Your Business Like Your Family Depends on It

There is an imperative to the phrase "Treat your business like your family depends on it" that is easy to miss. For many solopreneurs and small business owners, there is a profound truth in this statement—your family may genuinely depend on it. Your mortgage, your bills, your lifestyle... the things you want to provide for those you love depend on you showing up and delivering, especially in those early months or years.

The Journey to Success

As time goes on, we often reach a level of success. Perhaps you secure a handful of reliable retainer clients or a guaranteed number of billable hours each month at a decent rate. This ensures that the most important financial bases are covered.

You're coping. You have an established business. It is ticking along. The stress feels manageable, as does the workload. It’s working, and you are committed to keeping it that way. But does this success lead to a desire to play it a little safe?

The Question of Commitment

I heard a great question from Larry Long Jr this weekend that got me thinking:

Are you interested, committed, or obsessed with what you do?

I don’t mean obsessed in an unhealthy, burnout way. I mean turning up the dial on what you do so that every tiny action creates a maximum return.

Not necessarily working harder, but working with greater clarity and bravery. This way, the precious time you set aside from your family to 'do some work' gives more back to them than it might otherwise have done.

The True Value of Your Business

This isn't just about paying the bills. It's about your business giving you back energy, excitement, passion, and pleasure. Your business should provide you with a magical opportunity to become your best possible self. When you close your laptop, the version of you that steps back into your family's space should bring so much more than just a balanced bank account.

Are your current actions, plans, and strategies delivering something more than comfort and dependability? If not, could they be?

• What would that look like?

• How would that impact your family?

• How would it impact you?

  
  

If the honest answers to these questions sit outside of 'comfort', and a hesitation or fear creeps into your thoughts, that's okay. It's natural.

Embracing the Fear

But if your family depended on you stepping outside of your comfort zone right now, how quickly would you take that brave step?

What if you did it anyway?

Imagine the possibilities. Picture a life where your business not only supports your family financially but also enriches your life in ways you never thought possible.

Taking Action

So, what can you do today to embrace this mindset? Start by setting small, achievable goals that push you just outside your comfort zone.

• Reflect: Take time to think about what truly excites you about your business.

• Plan: Create a roadmap that includes both short-term and long-term goals.

• Act: Take that first step, no matter how small.

  
  

Every action counts. Each step you take can lead to greater success and fulfillment.

Conclusion

In the end, treating your business like your family depends on it is about more than just financial success. It's about creating a life filled with passion, energy, and joy.

So, let’s embrace the journey together. Let’s step outside our comfort zones and unlock our true potential. After all, our families deserve the best version of us, and so do we.

By embracing these principles, you can transform your business into a source of joy and fulfillment. Let's make sure that when we show up for our families, we bring our best selves along for the ride.