5 Tips for Starting and Growing a Business

Small businesses have been popping up on social media. You’re probably here because you want to start your own too. I’m going to get ahead of you before you scroll away on Instagram or Facebook. There will be tons of people who are already doing the same thing – AND THAT’S OKAY. 

If you already have a specific product or service in mind, and you’re truly passionate and excited about it, I’m happy for you because you already got the greatest asset in the bag – YOU.

So let’s ditch the doubts and just start. Sharing with you 5 tips I find helpful when starting and growing an intentional business. These are things I still keep in mind to this day and hope you find value in them too!

1. Be Authentic

For one, it’s so much easier to be who you are. Build a business or start a project that’s in line with your values, and beliefs. You’ll find it’s much easier to speak of it and stay consistent.

Authenticity is also about genuinely believing that your products and services can add value to people. Manipulation and gimmicks can only get us so far. What breeds loyalty is authenticity. People are smart and they trust those who they feel are genuine.

2. Think Abundantly

Our perception affects our potential. When we think abundantly, we notice possibilities than limitations. We see community than competition. Not everyone is out there to get you. There are plenty of resources to go around and a community of people who are supportive and helpful. 

When we have a scarcity mentality, we spend our precious time, money, and energy, protecting what we have or what already works – holding on to our ideas, even clients that aren’t the right fit for you. We fail to see other opportunities, and easily fall into trends. We focus more on beating “competitors” than building and growing our business. 

3. Go Above and Beyond 

You’ll find that this comes naturally when you’re doing something you love.

It’s understandable that there are limits to your products and services especially during this time. But there are always on how you can go the extra mile and exceed your client’s expectations. Little things that may sometimes seem trivial can make a huge difference – like a personal handwritten note or a simple virtual thank you message!

For Sunday Morning Studios (my wedding photography team), couples usually book a year before their wedding. Going the extra mile is finding time to get to know our clients and answer their queries and concerns leading up to their wedding day, and even after the event. By doing this, we’re building a connection and making sure we serve our couples the best way possible.

4. Stop Comparing 

I think I’ve shared this on my previous posts but thought it’s worth mentioning again. Let’s not compare our beginning to somebody’s middle. Let’s focus on building OUR brand, and fulfilling OUR purpose.

FINAL THOUGHTS – and tip number 5!

The “new normal” is an extra challenging time. People are acquiring new habits, mindsets are shifting, routines are changing. We’re all being tossed around in a world where everything is pretty much uncertain, and it’s a little overwhelming. 

Along with the changes though, comes new opportunities, ideas, and possibilities. It can be a time to shift and try out something new without forgetting that our fight against Covid-19 isn’t over yet, which brings me to tip number 5.

5. Take a step back. 

The pressure is real and I’m sure you feel it too. 

I have my weak points but I have come to terms (it’s a constant inner battle) that at this time, it’s so important to prioritize our mental and spiritual health.

Self-awareness has taught me to take a step back when needed. To breath and just be. I also learned to pray more and seek help from God and people I trust. It’s not easy, but with practice and constant reminders from my loved ones, I get by!

Sometimes, we need to take a step back so we can have more energy to move forward. I hope these 5 tips inspire you to grow and build an intentional business. 

Feel free to add more tips on the comment section or get in touch with me on instagram, would love to hear your thoughts!