While I've been using my new-found time to learn how to bake bread, children everywhere have become obsessed with their bikes.

I've never seen so many kids riding around town. Schools, offices, and parks have been closed and their parking lots have been empty of cars. Children with bikes have completely taken them over.

Last week I shared a super optimistic plan for my upcoming business development retreat.

Now comes the moment of truth. What really happened?

When I first started my business practically every day was a business development day. I would gobble up any information that I could find on business. Did I mention that I’m kinda addicted to learning?

Who knew you can learn so much about business while searching for a makeup artist?

You may already know that my brother is engaged and my family is now planning a wedding!

The search for a makeup artist has been a long one, and so far there is no happy ending.

Hi Sarah! How are you? I like the list that you shared of 14 steps to get your clients to respect your time. I was wondering how I can apply it to my business, which right now doesn't involve client appointments per se. What is your advice about that?

It’s tough to run a business that revolves around client appointments. I know that some clients can be annoying, pushing the limits of our patience. None of my clients… they are all the sweetest. For real. But I have had my share of problematic prospective clients. The type that  schedules an appointment and doesn’t show up. Yes, we’ve all had those...

We started our business because there was a need we felt called to fill. There was a problem we wanted to solve. There were people we knew we could help. Our intentions were completely altruistic.

Yet, now our bank account is paying for it. In order for our business to continue being able to support others, it must be sustainable. 

My consulting clients come to me with lots questions. Here is a big one-

“Is it worth it for me to continue doing XYZ?”

Instinctively, I run to analyze the numbers. And it’s true, the numbers tell a big story.

But, there is another major part I need to take into the equation. That is YOU!
 

"But I already put so much work into it, I just have to make it work."

"I spent a whole year studying graphic design, there is no way I can quit."

"I hustled so hard for the past few months, I can't give up everything I built."


I'm right there with you.
You are stuck in the trap of SUNK COST BIAS.

I met her at my hairstylist and was immediately captivated.
I listened to her story. It drew me in.
I was fascinated and I knew it. On the spot we set up a time to meet again.
I needed to hear more.

Reflecting on our short conversation, I wondered:
"What is her secret power? Why am I so intrigued?
Why am I talking about our conversation with whomever I meet?"

You got into this whole business thing because you wanted to be free.
So what happened?
Why are you constantly feeling overwhelmed and tied down?
Weren't you supposed to have more time now?

How do you know when to jump in and when to give yourself the time to warm up?

It's always a difficult balance. Especially with regard to validating a business or product idea.
You may be telling yourself "If not now, then when?"
You might also be thinking "I don't want to regret this. How do I know for sure?"