Treat Your Business Like a Business, Not a Hobby
Introduction
Are you truly treating your business like a business, or is it more of a hobby? Whether you’re just starting out or already making six or seven figures, it’s worth asking this tough question. Small habits, back doors, and half-hearted efforts can sabotage your success without you even realizing it.
In this article, we’ll explore the subtle ways we treat our businesses like hobbies and how to close the back doors that make it easy to procrastinate. Let’s level up and commit to building the thriving business you’ve always envisioned.
Are You Half-Assing Your Business?
It’s easy to fall into the trap of doing the bare minimum when there’s no immediate consequence. For instance, are you:
Failing to invest in professional tools or systems?
Sending subpar invoices or documents?
Skipping out on uncomfortable but necessary tasks like networking or sales?
Example:
I once relied on informal email exchanges for electronic invoices instead of using a professional platform. It seemed harmless but led to delays, lost documents, and missed opportunities. Small oversights like this can cost you credibility and momentum.
The Comfort Trap: Back Doors That Hold You Back
A “back door” is anything that allows you to retreat when the going gets tough. This could be:
A secure day job that keeps you from fully committing to your business.
A partner or trust fund that cushions financial pressures.
Excuses like “I don’t have time” or “I’m too tired.”
The Problem:
Back doors create comfort zones that encourage procrastination and half-hearted efforts. When there’s no urgency, it’s easy to settle for mediocrity.
The Burn the Boats Mentality
There’s a saying: “Burn the boats.” It comes from the story of explorers who destroyed their ships upon reaching new lands, eliminating any option of retreat. They had no choice but to succeed.
While you don’t need to quit your job or make extreme sacrifices, adopting this mentality can help you:
Fully commit to your business.
Remove excuses and distractions.
Push through challenges with resilience.
How to Identify and Close Your Back Doors
Audit Your Business Habits:
Where are you cutting corners?
Are there areas where you could improve professionalism or consistency?
Analyze Your Comfort Zones:
What safety nets are preventing you from giving your all?
Are you relying on a job, partner, or other crutches?
Make a Plan to Transition:
If you’re working a full-time job, create a timeline to reduce hours or transition out.
Set clear, actionable goals to replace comfort with accountability.
Treating Your Business Like a Business
To grow your business, you need to treat it with the respect and focus it deserves. This means:
Investing in Professional Tools: Use proper systems for invoicing, marketing, and operations.
Prioritizing Growth Activities: Dedicate time to networking, sales, and customer engagement.
Setting Boundaries: Create a schedule that reflects your commitment to your business.
The Cost of Treating Your Business Like a Hobby
When you treat your business like a hobby, it can lead to:
Stagnation: Your business remains stuck at its current level.
Missed Opportunities: Sloppy habits can cost you clients and credibility.
Frustration: Lack of progress can demotivate you and lead to burnout.
Remember: A hobby won’t pay your bills, but a well-run business will.
Take Action Today
Here’s how to start treating your business like a business right now:
Identify One Area for Improvement: Is it invoicing, time management, or client communication? Pick one and fix it this week.
Set Non-Negotiable Work Hours: Commit to specific times for focused work, even on weekends if necessary.
Remove One Back Door: Whether it’s a job, a financial safety net, or an excuse, eliminate one thing that’s holding you back.
Conclusion
Your business will only grow if you treat it like a serious venture. Stop half-assing tasks, close the back doors, and commit fully. Whether it’s adopting better tools, eliminating distractions, or burning the boats, every small step will make a big impact.
Ask yourself today:
“Am I treating my business like a hobby or like the powerhouse it’s meant to be?”
Ready to Commit?
If you’re ready to close the back doors and take your business to the next level, let’s talk. Contact me for coaching and strategies to grow your business with purpose and professionalism.
