Take back the wheel

Let me tell you something I hear from a lot of business owners. They start out loving what they do, full of excitement and big dreams. But somewhere along the way, the business takes over. Instead of feeling fulfilled, they feel stuck—like they’re on a hamster wheel. From the outside, everything might look shiny and successful, but on the inside? It’s exhausting, and the joy is gone.
Running a business doesn’t have to feel like this. Sure, it’s hard work, but it shouldn’t feel like it’s taking the life out of you. That’s where the idea of being growth-ready comes in. It’s about setting yourself up for success with these three pillars:
1. Strategic Planning
2. Scalable Systems
3. Strong Leadership
Here’s a simple tip to get started: Have a strategic plan every year. Break it down into quarterly goals and clear 90-day tasks. And don’t just stop there—set aside time every 90 days to review, adjust, and make sure you’re still on track. Bringing in a coach or mentor for these sessions can be a game-changer. Fresh perspectives often spark the best ideas and help keep everyone aligned.
Think of it like this: your annual plan is the GPS, and those quarterly check-ins are the pit stops that keep your car running smoothly. When you stick to this rhythm, it’s amazing what you can accomplish—and how much lighter you’ll feel.
Because running a business should feel good. It should lift you up, not weigh you down. So, if your business has been running you, maybe it’s time to take back the wheel.