Running an online business definitely has its ups and downs—and it can be hard to see what's going on when you're in the thick of it. So if you're going through a challenging moment (or week or month!) know that you're learning a lot right now, even if you don't see it until you're out the other side. In today's episode, I'm sharing 15 of the lessons I've learned in the last few years to help you through the tougher times.

– Why diving into the “scary” zone can be so beneficial to your success and the value of learning from your failures.
– Why selling is a non-negotiable element to every online business and understanding the difference between cash flow and profit.
– The harsh reality that not everything is going to be a shiny, sparkly squirrel, which means getting comfortable with the boring tasks of running a business.
– How embracing your fears and doubts *is* the path to success because expanding your comfort zone (over and over again!) breeds confidence.

And so much more…

Starting and growing an online business is filled with challenges and lessons that are best learned through experience. Today, I'm excited to share 15 invaluable lessons I've learned along the way—insights that now seem obvious but weren't so clear when I first started.

1. Master the Art of Selling

No matter how expert you are or how great your products are, if you're not good at selling, you'll struggle. I learned to embrace selling as a way to truly serve my audience because if they don’t know about what I offer, they can't benefit from it.

2. Understand Cash Flow vs. Profit

Cash flow and profit are not the same, yet both are crucial for the health of your business. A hard lesson even for someone with an accounting background, mastering cash flow management is essential for survival and stability.

3. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

Growth only happens when you do things that scare you. Fear is not an indicator to stop; it highlights what's truly important to you and pushes you to step out of your comfort zone.

4. Learn from Failure and Rejection

Both failure and rejection are ripe with lessons. Rather than seeing these as setbacks, view them as opportunities to refine your approach and improve your business strategies.

5. Embrace the Mundane

The most crucial aspects of business can often feel boring—like setting up systems and managing cash flow. However, these foundational tasks are what ensure long-term sustainability and success.

6. Separate Your Self-Worth from Your Business

Your value as a person is not tied to your business successes or failures. Keeping this distinction clear helps maintain your self-esteem through the ups and downs of business ownership.

7. The Power of Saying “No”

Learning to say no is as important as seizing opportunities. Each “yes” consumes time that could be spent on other valuable activities. Prioritize what truly aligns with your goals.

8. Measure Success on Your Own Terms

Avoid comparing your progress to others'. Focus on your own goals and visions to measure your success, which provides a more accurate and motivational gauge.

9. Gratitude and Ambition Can Coexist

You can appreciate your current achievements while still aspiring for more. Celebrating milestones does not mean settling—it fuels your journey toward bigger dreams.

10. Strategy Over Promotion

Having a solid strategy for what you sell is more crucial than how you promote it. Effective strategies ensure consistent sales and sustainable business growth.

11. Focus on What You Can Control

Instead of fretting over external factors, concentrate on your actions and decisions. This proactive approach empowers you to make the best of your situation.

12. Quality Over Quantity in Launches

Repeating successful launches rather than constantly introducing new products can lead to more significant growth and a deeper understanding of what works.

13. There Are No Shortcuts

Success comes from consistent hard work and commitment. Short-term gains don't lead to long-term success; the real progress is made through persistence and dedication.

14. Prioritize Self-Care

You are your business's most crucial asset. Prioritizing self-care ensures you can continue to perform at your best and come up with innovative ideas.

15. Action Overcomes Fear

Confidence and knowledge are gained through action, not planning. Taking steps forward, even when it’s scary, is the only way to truly progress and overcome doubts.

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