When I launched my virtual spiritual business, it began at a small desk in my bedroom. I had a calling from my soul and guidance team, a computer, a phone, a pair of headphones, a videoconferencing program, a global payment program, and a few social media accounts I’d already been using.
Shortly after, I added a $10/month scheduling program to reduce back-and-forth emails. My initial startup costs… $16.99 USD a month.
What I didn’t have was a roadmap. No one told me how bumpy, beautiful, and deeply personal the entrepreneurial journey could be.
Whether you’re just starting or feeling stretched in your current stage of growth, here are 10 hard-earned lessons and tips to help you navigate the journey:
1. Know Your “Why”
Why did you start your business? What was is your purpose for this business? Whether it’s to serve, solve a problem, or something else, let it be your guiding force when the road feels challenging or you’re not sure where you’re headed. Always returning to your “why.”
Your “why” must go beyond profit. Every business needs to make money, but if that’s your primary reason, you’ll be challenged along the way when the money flow ebbs (and it will).
2. Grow Slowly
Slow growth is the best way to build a strong foundation and sustainable growth. If you scale too quickly without proper infrastructure, burnout and client dissatisfaction can undo your progress.
Incremental expansion gives you time to become comfortable at each stage, slowly implementing process and infrastructure to support the next phase.
3. Invest Wisely
My early business tools were low-cost and highly effective. Many new entrepreneurs believe they need pricey software and subscriptions to look “legit.” But it only adds unnecessary expense and financial stress when you’re starting out.
For service-based, virtual businesses, simpler is smarter, until growth justifies the upgrade.
4. Prioritize Self-care
You are your business. Your energy, creativity, and clarity are directly tied to your well-being. As the flight attendants on every flight say, “Put your oxygen mask on yourself first, then help others.” The same applies here.
Block out time to refuel your own tank. That may mean a walk in nature, quiet meditation, or lunch with a friend.
Without you, your business isn’t sustainable.
5. Business Is Cyclical
Business has ups and down. There will be busy times and quiet ones. It’s the nature of business. Don’t panic. As Nabil Sabio Azadi wrote, “When fisherman can’t go to sea, they stay home and repair their nets.”
Use slow periods to refine your processes, build new offers, or nourish your skills.
6. Surround Yourself with Supporters
Not everyone will cheer for you. Some people may subtly—or overtly—undermine your dream. Know who your true allies are. Stay close to those who champion your growth and kindly detach from the rest.
7. Entrepreneurship Is a Personal Growth Journey
The path of the entrepreneur isn’t easy. You’ll grow more as a person than you ever expected. It will challenge your mindset, resilience, emotional intelligence, leadership, boundaries, stress management, and more. When you need help, ask. That’s part of the journey.
8. It Doesn’t Have to Be All or Nothing
Some people quit corporate jobs to go all-in. Others start their business while keeping a job to reduce financial strain. Both paths are valid. What matters is that you’re taking aligned steps at the pace that works for you.
9. Have a Beginners Mindset
A beginner’s mindset is a superpower. Be teachable. There’s always more to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, hire experts, or take courses in areas where you’re not strong. No one builds a thriving business alone.
10. Visibility Matters
If you build it, they will not automatically come. Family and friends may come. Referrals may come. Long term growth and sustainability requires visibility. Find the platforms or formats that suit you. For me, visibility as an introvert meant choosing channels that aligned and honored my energies and authentic self.
11. Bonus: Have Fun!
If you’re not enjoying the journey, return to your “why.” Building a business can stretch and challenge you, but it can also be one of the most joyful, meaningful, and soul-aligned paths you’ll ever walk.
