It’s the Little Things That Add Up Over Time
Today’s my birthday, and as I look back on another year of building my brand, I’m feeling both grateful and reflective. Building a business is so much more than strategy or sales; it’s a journey filled with tiny, often unseen moments that shape who we become as entrepreneurs. Each step—no matter how small—adds up over time to create something meaningful.
When I think about how far I’ve come, I can’t help but smile. Here’s a screenshot of my very first website, dating back to 1999! If you could see the amount of time I spent coding it by hand, you’d laugh—HTML was definitely not as easy as today’s drag-and-drop tools. Technology has made things simpler over the years, but some things have remained timeless, like the power of dedication, patience, and learning from others.
Here are my most meaningful takeaways from the past year, lessons that remind me that it’s never just one thing—it’s all the little things that matter.
1. Double Down on What’s Working
One of the biggest lessons I've learned is to pay attention to what’s already working and put my energy there. It's tempting to chase every new trend or try to “do it all,” but success often lies in doubling down on what’s bringing you the most impact.
Reminder: Growth isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing the right things consistently. Over time, these small, focused actions create momentum that can take your business further than any one-time “hack” ever could.
2. Set Up KPIs with Clarity and Intention
We live in a world where it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by data, but clear KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) have helped me stay focused. By choosing just a few key metrics, I’m able to keep my goals in sight without feeling weighed down by endless numbers. This simple structure has given me the clarity to move forward confidently, without feeling like I’m drowning in data.
Tip: Focus on the KPIs that resonate most with your vision. When you’re crystal clear on your goals, even the small steps feel purposeful.
3. When You’re Overwhelmed, Pause
Entrepreneurship has taught me that burnout is real, and it’s okay to stop when you need to. If there’s anything I’ve learned, it’s that pushing through doesn’t always yield results—in fact, it often does the opposite. When the stress starts to creep in, I’ve learned to pause, breathe, and give myself space.
Lesson: Overwhelm is a signal, not a weakness. Honor it, take a break, and return to your work with fresh eyes. Often, the answers you need will come when you give yourself permission to rest.
4. It’s the Little Things That Matter
Everyone’s looking for the next big hack, but in reality, it’s the small, consistent actions that shape our success. Those little habits, daily routines, and small moments of connection with customers—they’re what build a brand over time.
Example: From answering a customer email with care to taking that extra moment to perfect a product, these little things may seem small but create a lasting impact. They add up over time, creating the foundation for something extraordinary.
5. Don’t Forget to Take Breaks
The drive to “keep going” is strong, but sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is take a break. I’ve learned to recognize that rest isn’t the opposite of progress; it’s a necessary part of it. Taking time to recharge allows me to come back with fresh ideas, energy, and motivation.
Practice: Build regular breaks into your routine. Even a short pause can help you approach your work with a clearer, calmer mind.
6. It’s Okay to Pivot
This year reminded me that growth sometimes means changing direction. The ability to pivot, to try something new, or to let go of what’s not working has been liberating. It’s okay to release the plans that no longer serve you and explore new possibilities.
Advice: Don’t be afraid to shift course. Success isn’t always linear; sometimes, a slight change in direction leads to the most rewarding results.
7. Never Stop Learning
If there’s one constant in my journey, it’s the importance of learning. Every person I’ve met and every lesson I’ve encountered has shaped who I am as an entrepreneur. I think back on everyone who has taught me something—from Mark, my first programmer in Las Vegas, to Tony Hsieh, who showed me the value of driving traffic with Link Exchange and, ultimately, the power of customer experience, to Bhavesh, my first virtual assistant in 2004. Each of them gave me something invaluable. I’ve also learned that continuous learning is non-negotiable. I read books, listen to podcasts every day, and invest thousands each year in masterminds and conferences. It’s not just about the knowledge you gain; it’s about immersing yourself in an environment that inspires you and challenges you to do better. Commitment: Be a lifelong learner. Every lesson, every connection, every experience—no matter how small—adds another layer to your journey. Embrace the growth that comes with every new skill and insight.
8. Surround Yourself with a Strong Tribe
Just as important as lifelong learning is finding your tribe—those people who uplift and challenge you. Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you, who aren’t afraid to tell you the hard truths, and who genuinely want to see you succeed. Whether it’s joining a mastermind group, finding a mentor, or simply cultivating a circle of supportive, driven people, these relationships are like fuel for your growth. They push you to think bigger, hold you accountable, and remind you of your potential. Building a business can be a lonely journey, but with the right people by your side, it becomes an incredible adventure filled with inspiration, learning, and resilience. Find your tribe—people who inspire, challenge, and support you—and let them be the mirror that reflects your strengths and the compass that guides you through challenges. Tip: If you’re unsure where to start, consider joining a local business group, a mastermind, or even an online community. Look for people who share your values, who aren’t afraid to challenge you, and who celebrate your wins as if they were their own. Remember, the strength of your tribe can be a powerful driver of your success, so invest in relationships that lift you up and keep you grounded.
9. Enjoy the Journey
Looking back, I realize it’s never just one big moment that defines your success; it’s the accumulation of all the little things. Each challenge, each small win, each step forward—they’re all part of the incredible journey of building something from scratch. It’s easy to rush ahead, but I’m learning to savor the moments as they come.
Reflection: Celebrate the journey, not just the destination. Each day, each lesson, each step forward is a part of your story. Enjoy it fully.
9. Do Something That Scares You Every Day
Stepping out of your comfort zone is where the magic happens. This year, I’ve pushed myself into situations that felt far beyond my limits—working with incredible brands, collaborating with high-profile celebrities, and hitting milestone goals I once only dreamed of. Was I terrified? Absolutely. Hopping on a Zoom call with an A-list celebrity? For someone who works in their PJs most days, that was a big leap! But each time, I reminded myself that everything I want lies on the other side of fear.
Reflection: Fear often shows us where our potential is waiting. Facing those nerve-wracking moments head-on has not only brought me closer to my goals but has also deepened my confidence in what I can achieve. Every time you take on something that scares you, you grow stronger and more resilient.
Tip: Challenge yourself to do one thing every day or every week that feels intimidating. It doesn’t have to be big—it could be reaching out to a mentor, posting a personal story on social media, or introducing yourself to someone new. Each step outside your comfort zone builds momentum, bringing you closer to your goals and expanding what you believe is possible. Remember, bravery isn’t about not feeling fear; it’s about taking action despite it.
Final Thoughts
As I celebrate another year, I’m filled with gratitude not only for this journey but for the incredible community of handmade entrepreneurs I interact with every day. So many of you have become friends, collaborators, and sources of constant inspiration (you know who you are!). Building a brand is so much more than selling products; it’s about growth, connection, and finding joy in the process, and you remind me of that every single day.
Here’s to another year—of learning, of pivoting when needed, of savoring the little things, and of finding joy in the everyday journey of entrepreneurship. Thank you for being a part of this incredible ride, for cheering each other on, and for sharing in both the challenges and the victories.
Let’s keep growing, learning, and lifting each other up, one small step at a time. xox
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