EP 53: 5 mistakes i made when starting my business and how you can avoid them
Hi everyone! Summer Grace here, and welcome back to Summer School. Today, I’m sharing something that’s a little close to home—mistakes I made when starting my business. I know, we’ve all been there, but I hope my experiences can help you avoid some of the bumps in the road as you grow your own business. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for some extra guidance, let’s get into it!
Quick Life Update
Before we dive in, let’s catch up! This weekend was a blast—celebrating a first birthday and a 30th in the same weekend. Can’t get more different than that, right? I’ve also been swamped with editing projects and coaching, but I’m excited about some cool things coming to my YouTube channel soon, so stay tuned for that!
In other news, we’re officially converting my LA office into a nursery. It’s been super hot here, so as much as I want to embrace fall vibes, I’m staying inside with the AC on blast. Now, let’s get into the good stuff.
1. Don’t Underprice Your Work
Okay, so this one is huge. One of the most common mistakes when starting out is underpricing your work. I was lucky to start off with a decent pricing structure, thanks to some confidence and a bit of prior experience. But even then, I still had doubts a couple of years in. Here's the thing—your pricing is a reflection of your value and the kind of clients you attract. So, own your worth and set your rates accordingly! It’s so important to stand behind the value you bring to the table.
2. Stop Doing It All Yourself
Another thing I wish I had learned sooner: you don’t have to do everything yourself. I used to be all about handling every single detail—editing, admin, client gifts, you name it. But when you’re trying to scale your business, you’ve got to let go a little. Outsourcing tasks is a game-changer and helps you focus on the bigger picture. Trusting other people to take on some of the work can free you up, save you from burnout, and actually help you grow faster.
3. Get Your Systems in Place
Let me just say, not having systems in place will slow you down—big time. When I finally invested in client management software, things got so much smoother. Tools like HoneyBook or Dubsado can really streamline your processes and take so much off your plate. And don’t forget to create a guidebook for your business. It’s a lifesaver for when you start bringing people on board and need to keep things running smoothly.
4. Avoid the Comparison Trap
This one’s tough, but so important—don’t fall into the comparison trap. I’ve been there, and it’s so easy to start measuring your success against someone else’s. But honestly, everyone’s journey is different. Comparison just steals your joy. Stay focused on your goals, celebrate your wins (no matter how small), and remember that your path is uniquely yours.
5. Self-Care Is Non-Negotiable
Last but definitely not least—self-care. I used to wear my hustle like a badge of honor, but let me tell you, it’s not sustainable. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so make sure you’re taking care of yourself. Balance is key. Work will always be there, but your health and relationships need attention, too. Trust me, the burnout isn’t worth it.
Wrapping It Up
So, those are my five biggest mistakes and the lessons I’ve learned from them. Hopefully, this helps you dodge a few of the roadblocks I hit! Pricing yourself right, building systems, outsourcing, focusing on your own journey, and making time for self-care are all essential for a successful, sustainable business.
Thank you for hanging out with me today! I hope you found this episode helpful. As always, I love hearing from you, so feel free to reach out and let me know your thoughts. Until next time, take care of yourselves and keep chasing those dreams.
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