Starting a small business always comes with unsolicited advice from anyone who thinks they know anything. The minute you open your business doors you will have everyone and their grandma telling you what to do, what not to do, talk to this person, make sure you know this…
Just in the five months we have been in business I feel like I could write a book containing all the pieces of advice we have obtained. While most have been wonderful and very helpful, there are just some things you have to learn yourself.
Here are the three most important things no one told me:
- Let go of what you think it's going to look like. Practice the law of detachment. Letting go of what the outcome of the dream looks like is probably one of the most important things I’ve learned. That doesn’t mean you have to let go of the dream. It means you focus on your goal without attaching yourself to a preconceived outcome. Your dream doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s to bring you success or happiness. Only you determine what that success and happiness looks like to your business.
- Do not rely on the support of your friends or family to make your business successful. This statement is not meant to be hurtful. Though very true. It’s not your friends or family’s responsibility to make your business a success. Yes, it’s lovely when they share your social media posts or tell someone about your wonderful business but it's not their responsibility. It is yours as the business owner to market and advertise. Your friends and family already have jobs and a full plate. This wasn’t their idea. Lay off them and focus on the other areas of support; Strangers and other small business owners in your neighborhood. Network with others and be proud to tell them about your hustle! Show them your passion! Ask questions, pick brains, and welcome feedback. Social media! Social media! Social media! Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, Threads, Twitter and YouTube are free resources to use! Use them and try to post everyday.
- Just because you love it, doesn’t mean others will. But that’s okay! Not everyone is going to understand or see your visions the same way. You might have some scoff at your idea or give back your business card. There may be days, weeks, or months that go by where your sales are stagnant, That doesn’t mean your business is failing! Operating a small business is like riding a roller coaster. There are ups and downs, curves, and hills. Some days you’re going so fast your heart races and you feel like you can’t catch your breath. Other days you're on the kiddie coaster and you're enjoying the little bumps and have your arms free in the air. Some days the roller coaster stops and you have to Google how to fix it!
Starting a small business isn’t just about passion or a great idea—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and learning lessons no one thinks to mention upfront. From learning to believe in yourself and embracing failure as part of growth, the real journey happens behind the scenes. Success isn’t about having everything figured out—it’s about staying committed, staying curious, and figuring it out as you go.
- Jessie Stiffler