Embarking on the journey of starting and running a business is nothing short of exhilarating (and is filled with exciting challenges, amazing growth opportunities, and invaluable lessons). From the thrill of launching your business to tackling the hurdles that come your way, it’s NEVER boring. Over the past two years, I’ve been right there, experiencing the highs of success and the lows of (humbling) setbacks. Each step on this path has taught me what it takes to build a sustainable and thriving business.

These experiences have shaped me not just as a professional but also as an individual. Today, I’m excited to share the lessons for entrepreneurs that I’ve learned, hoping to inspire and support fellow entrepreneurs and small business owners! I can’t wait to connect with you on your journey!

But first, are you a wedding pro in need of a wedding pro VA? I’ve love to help! Click here to find out if you are ready to hire a wedding planner VA! Or, Check out how we can collaborate here. Like what you see already and ready for me to get to work? Contact me here!

Quick note, I’m an affiliate of some of the companies on this page, which means I receive a commission whenever someone makes a purchase using my code or link. This doesn’t cost you anything extra – it often will actually save you money! As an affiliate, I’m able to snag some sweet discounts. I wholeheartedly endorse these brands, and I only recommend products/services that I use in my real life and straight up LOVE. Enjoy!

1. Don’t Overcommit: Under promise, Overdeliver!

Among these lessons for entrepreneurs, this one hurts the most to admit. Overcommitting is a trap many ambitious entrepreneurs fall into, myself included. As an ambitious Capricorn and an Enneagram Type 3, overcommitting almost feels natural. However, the reality check came during my return from maternity leave. I believed I could power through everything and magically manage it all. Boy, was I wrong.

It’s painful to acknowledge, but overcommitting led to many moments of self-doubt and exhaustion. Reflecting on these experiences has been a tremendous growth opportunity. I’ve scaled back my retainer clients and focused more on project-based work like systems builds. This shift has allowed me to better manage my time as a new mother to a six-month-old, although it does bruise my ego occasionally.

Plus, ultimately, Learning to under promise and overdeliver has not only improved my client relationships but also my overall well-being. This is one of the hardest lessons for entrepreneurs, but trust me, you don’t want to make the same mistakes I did (even if it’s common!).

2. Know Yourself and Communicate Openly

It may sound strange, but understanding myself has been crucial in managing my business. When I hit overwhelm, my natural tendency is to shut down. The key to overcoming this is to address the feelings head-on, tackle tasks in small chunks, and communicate openly.

Great communication is invaluable. Clients appreciate transparency, and being upfront about my capacity and any challenges I’m facing has strengthened those relationships. Whether I’m overwhelmed with work or dealing with personal issues like a sick child, honesty and transparency go a long way. Clients value this openness, and it sets a standard for mutual respect and understanding.

3. Learn to Say No and Trust Your Gut

Another big lesson I’ve learned in my two years of business; not every client or project will be the right fit. It’s tempting to accept any work that comes your way, especially during slower periods, but this can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction. Trusting my gut has been key in making these decisions.

Saying no to projects that don’t align with my strengths or values has allowed me to save time and energy for those that truly resonate with me. This approach ensures that I’m not missing out on dream projects because I’m tied up with work that doesn’t fit my vision.

4. Take Messy Action

If there’s one mantra that has carried me through these first two years, it’s this: TAKE MESSY ACTION. Perfectionism can be paralyzing. Instead, I’ve learned to take action, even if it’s not perfect initially.

I built my original website off a budget template just to get my business up and running. I took virtual assistant training courses while still teaching third-grade math and science, knowing I didn’t want to go back the following year. I jumped on Instagram stories, talking about the services I wanted to offer and my dream clients in the wedding industry. These actions, though not always perfectly planned, got my foot in the door and propelled my business forward.

Even now, two years later, I remind myself to take messy action when trying new things. It’s the best way to learn and grow.

5. Take Breaks and Avoid Burnout

One of the top lessons I’ve learned in my two years of business is working around the clock WON’T accelerate your success; it will only set you back. Burnout is REAL, and it drains your energy and inspiration. Taking breaks is essential for maintaining productivity and creativity.

Before having my baby in December, I thought I was working 24/7. Little did I know what working mama life would look like! It’s more important than ever to close the computer, stick to work boundaries, and spend quality time with my family. Unplugging and taking breaks is crucial for recharging and staying motivated. This is definitely one of my biggest lessons for entrepreneurs.

6. Remember Your Why

Lastly, I can’t share lessons for entrepreneurs without talking about this. Understanding why I started this business keeps me grounded and motivated. It wasn’t just to leave my brief stint in elementary teaching. I wanted to rejoin the wedding industry that I missed so much. I wanted to feel passionate about my work again and use my skills where they were needed most.

Many solopreneurs in the wedding industry struggle to manage everything on their own. Seeing the relief on their faces when I help set up their systems and streamline their processes is incredibly rewarding. This role allows me to do what I love in an industry I’m passionate about, while also providing the flexibility to be present for my family.

Lessons for Entrepreneurs (That I’ve Learned in My Two Years of Business)

Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with learning, growth, and change. By implementing these lessons for entrepreneurs, my hope is that you can navigate the challenges and find success in your own business endeavors. Remember, don’t overcommit. Know yourself and communicate openly. Trust your gut and say no when necessary. Take messy action and don’t strive for perfection. Take breaks to avoid burnout. And most importantly, remember your why. These lessons have shaped my business journey, and I hope they can provide guidance and inspiration for your own.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. If you have any questions or want to share your own experiences, feel free to reach out. We’re all in this together, and I believe in supporting one another as we grow our businesses and pursue our dreams.

Lastly, if you’re a wedding pro ready to take your business to the next level, I’m here to help. As a dedicated wedding pro VA, I know both HoneyBook and AislePlanner inside and out. I am just a message away. If you want to see what I’m all about first, come visit me on Instagram—I’d love to connect there.