Caring Became My Biggest Business Liability

Caring became one of the biggest liabilities in my business. Note to self: You can decide to STOP CARING.

I say that in the most caring way possible.

The Mistake

I made a HUGE mistake thinking I could give my time to everyone when I started my business. It felt like if I said "no" then it was an opportunity that would walk away. It would be someone that didn't like me.

But ultimately, I was someone that cared too much about what others thought, and not enough about the sustainability of my business.

I thought I was confident enough to walk away from the things that didn't serve me. But I didn't practice that when I started my business.

The Trap

I felt like I OWED my time to everyone since I was just starting out.

Like I hadn't already been in the workforce since I was 15. And in my field of public health for over 10.

And that really bit me later. Strung out. Too many commitments. And not enough revenue to handle it. My focus was scattered.

The Choice

But then I remembered I had the choice to NOT CARE.

If someone doesn't like me because I say no to something, then that's okay. If someone doesn't see the importance of my boundaries with time and attention, that is on them. Not on me.

No one cares more about your business than you. So stop caring what they think. And care about YOU.

It doesn't take away from who you are and your mission. It means you are wise enough to say no to the things that hold you back.

Final Thoughts

Your business can't help people if you don't help yourself first. Boundaries aren't selfish. They're survival.

When you started your business, you brought years of experience with you. You don't owe your time to everyone just because you're building something new. Stop waiting for permission to protect your energy.

Decide what you're willing to care about, and let go of the rest.