Do you know why you are growing your business?
This is not a trick question(!) but a crucial one that can make a difference in your success and most importantly happiness. Knowing your ‘why’ can help you overcome the problems that arise when running an online service business, especially if you are still juggling your day job.
Challenges like:
- Feeling overwhelmed by the workload and the deadlines (or lack of deadlines…)
- Lacking motivation and enthusiasm
- Struggling to balance your personal, work and business life
- Facing rejection, criticism, or competition from others
- Dealing with uncertainty, risk, or failure
Your ‘why’ is your purpose, cause, or belief that serves as the driving force behind your actions. It is the compass that keeps you on course and keeps you focused, disciplined, and motivated.
Growing a business can be hard work! Even when you’re pursuing something you love, there’s a spectrum of tasks that range from mundane to challenging, and sometimes, downright anxiety-inducing.
Amidst all this, your ‘why’ acts as an anchor, keeping you focused and propelling you forward. It gives you the discipline required to tackle the difficult, tedious, and sometimes overwhelming aspects of business growth.
I have two overarching “whys”.
Firstly I find SO MUCH JOY in coaching entrepreneurs, supporting them to overcome challenges, and seeing the results they achieve. I’m actually very selfish you it turns out! 
Secondly, I value freedom and autonomy and my business can support me in having more freedom and free time to take fun trips like the delightful weekend I recently spent with friends in Sicily.
These are my “whys”. But why are they important to me?
I believe that life is there to be enjoyed. Yes, you can still grow and achieve your goals, but if you’re not having some fun at least, then what’s the point?! Fun and joy are one of my core values and growing my business allows me to express and grow them too.
If, at any point, working on my business starts feeling more like a chore than a source of joy, it’s a signal that I might be deviating from what truly matters to me. Recognising my ‘why’ enables me to intentionally incorporate tasks that bring me joy in the present moment. It also serves as a reminder that the effort I invest in now is an investment in more joy in the future.
Here’s how knowing your “why” as an online service business owner can help you too:
- It gives you a clear vision and direction for your business – When you align your business with your personal values and passions, you create a unique value proposition for your target market. Knowing your ‘why’ can also help you set realistic and meaningful goals, and measure your progress and success.
- It motivates you to overcome challenges and obstacles – Running an online service business can be demanding and stressful, especially if you have to balance it with your day job. Knowing your “why” can remind you of the purpose and impact of your work, and inspire you to keep going when things get tough.
- It differentiates you from your competitors – Online service businesses are becoming more popular and competitive, as more people are looking for convenient and affordable solutions online. Knowing your ‘why’ can help you stand out from the crowd and attract loyal customers who share your vision and values.
- It enhances your leadership skills and credibility – As an online service entrepreneur, you need to communicate effectively with your customers, employees, partners, and eventually, investors. Knowing your ‘why’ can help you articulate your mission and vision, and persuade others to join you or support you. It can also boost your confidence and authority, as you demonstrate your passion and expertise in your field.
Why are you growing your business?
