Starting your own business is an exciting journey, but it’s also filled with challenges. If you're in the early stages of building your entrepreneurial empire like myself, here are six key realities you’ll no doubt face at some point. Here is what I have learnt so far eight months in to my bookish wax melt business.
1. It Will Become Very Clear Very Quickly Who Is a Supportive Friend and Who Is Simply Nosy
When you start a business, you quickly realise who truly has your back and who is just there for the ride. Friends and family will either cheer you on or question your decisions. While it can be disappointing to discover that some people are just curious or even critical of your new venture, remember this: You are doing something they aren’t. You’re taking risks, learning on the fly, and pushing yourself to grow in ways they might never understand and that is okay.
It's okay to let people be who they are. Keep your focus on the people who genuinely support you, and don’t let others’ skepticism or nosy nature slow you down. Your business journey is yours alone — and the right people will find their way into your corner. So the ones who watch your stories every day but never like or comment anything...let them!
2. You Have to Become Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable on Camera
This one hit me hard. Let’s face it: In today’s world, social media is not just a tool, it’s a necessity. To promote your business, you’ll have to build a digital presence, and whether you like it or not, that means you need to get comfortable in front of the camera. If you’re camera-shy or feel awkward recording videos, know this — you’re not alone. Almost everyone feels weird at first.
But here’s the thing: authenticity and vulnerability are what connect with people. The more you practice, the easier it becomes. So, push through that initial discomfort, and remember that it’s all part of growing your brand and making those vital connections with your audience. The world is waiting to hear from you, so find what works for you and only post content that feels YOU.
3. You Have to Work Super Hard to Set Boundaries and Downtime for Yourself.
I went from a clear routine of teaching all day and being governed so much by time and school bells to literally not having a boss. One of the biggest struggles when you’re running your own business is creating boundaries between work and life. It’s easy to get caught in the grind, especially when you’re passionate about what you’re doing, but if you don’t actively set boundaries, burnout will creep in faster than you realise. I jumped in at the deep end last September and by Christmas I was broken. I worked all hours relentlessly and knew things needed to change in the New Year.
Schedule time for yourself. Set boundaries for when you’re working and when you’re resting. What is your little treat for the day? What will you do for YOU today? Will you read? Go for a walk? Treat your mental and physical health like a non-negotiable part of your business plan- this is my biggest piece of advice. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself is an essential investment in the long-term success of your business. I quit teaching to have a better work-life balance and improved mental health, so with the freedom of owning my own business, I had to re-wire my brain chemistry... like...what do you mean I can go for a walk at 1.30 or have a bath at 3? When this clicked...it was a game changer. I make the rules!
4. You Have to Create a Routine.
Time often feels like it goes out the window when you’re deep into running your own business. Your passion might keep you working late into the night, and if you’re not careful, the days can blend together. Without a routine, it’s easy to lose track of time, and soon, you’ll find yourself waking up to endless tasks and no real sense of structure. You always experience the initial 'I'm so not getting dressed today because I don't have to' and for a bit, it's so fun to embrace this... but the novelty soon wears off. The best thing I did was invest in loads of new loungewear-my 'day pyjamas' that are comfy, cosy and I can go outside in them and not die of embarrassment. Although I still look questionable on my post office runs with my 'I don't know what day it is' vibe.
Creating a routine is essential. Schedule your work hours, make sure you’re taking regular breaks, and include time for family, friends, and relaxation. Your business will thank you for it in the long run — and so will your well-being. I do pilates two mornings a week and this has changed my life!
5. Your First Thought When You Wake Up and Your Last Thought Before Bed Will Be About Your Business.
When you’re fully invested in your business, it’s hard to switch off. Your business will constantly be on your mind, and that’s completely normal. In fact, your first and last thoughts of the day will likely be about your business.
Keep a notebook next to your bed to jot down any ideas that come to you late at night so that you don't have to dwell on them or run to your laptop. Writing them down helps clear your mind and makes sure nothing important is forgotten. Afterward, switch off with something calming, like an audiobook, so you can get the rest you need. Your ideas will still be there when you wake up, and you’ll be refreshed to tackle them.
6. It’s Okay to Fake It Till You Make It. Literally, Everyone Is.
Let’s get real — you’re going to feel like an imposter at some point. You may feel like you don’t have it all together, or wonder if you really know what you’re doing. But here’s the thing: everyone feels that way. Every successful entrepreneur has experienced moments of doubt and uncertainty.
The key is to keep going. Even on the hard days. Even when you haven't heard the cha-ching on your phone in a while and you start to think WHAT IS THE POINT. Embrace the "fake it till you make it" mentality. Take the next step, even if you're unsure. With each decision and action, you’ll grow, learn, and get more comfortable in your role as a business owner. So, keep pushing forward. You’re doing great.
Starting a business isn’t a straight path, but it’s a rewarding one. Expect challenges, expect discomfort, and expect growth. Keep these realities in mind as you navigate your entrepreneurial journey, and remember that you are capable of achieving far more than you think.
From a fellow business owner,
You’ve got this!
