When in Doubt, Take the Next Step

A Practical Guide for Indie Business Babes to Keep Moving Forward

I've been thinking about my post from yesterday, and one thing keeps coming back to me: when in doubt, take the next step. It's a simple, yet powerful mantra that can help you push through uncertainty and keep your momentum going. Today, I want to dive deep into why taking that next step—no matter how small—can be a game-changer for your business and your mindset.

Embrace the Power of Small Steps

When doubts creep in, it's natural to freeze up. We worry about perfection, fear failure, and sometimes, we even consider quitting. But remember: every big success starts with one small step. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, just take the next step, however tiny it may be. It's these small actions that accumulate over time and lead to extraordinary progress.

Actionable Tip: Break down your big goals into micro-tasks. Instead of “launch my new product,” focus on “draft one product description today.”
Deep Value Insight: Every micro-task you complete builds confidence and momentum. Celebrate those small wins—they’re the foundation of big achievements.

Bold Note: Don’t let doubt paralyze you. Even the tiniest step forward is progress.

Overcoming Self-Doubt with Action

Self-doubt is a natural part of any creative journey, but it doesn't have to hold you back. When you choose to act despite your doubts, you prove to yourself that you are capable. Think of each step as a mini victory that chips away at your fears.

Actionable Tip: When doubt sets in, set a timer for 10 minutes and commit to working on one small task. Whether it’s replying to an email or tweaking a product listing, use those 10 minutes to move forward.
Deep Value Insight: Action is the antidote to self-doubt. Every moment you invest in progress, no matter how small, builds resilience and sets the stage for larger successes.

Bold Note: Remember, doing something is always better than doing nothing at all. Just take that next step.

Create a ‘Next Step’ Mindset

Cultivating a mindset that values action over perfection can revolutionize the way you approach your business. A ‘next step’ mindset is about recognizing that progress isn’t linear—there will be ups and downs, but every move forward is a win.

Actionable Tip: Start each day by writing down one small action you can take toward your goal. This could be as simple as brainstorming a new idea or reaching out to a potential collaborator.
Deep Value Insight: With a daily ‘next step’ ritual, you create a habit of action that gradually builds into significant momentum. Over time, these actions add up, propelling your business to new heights.

Bold Note: Shift your focus from perfection to progress, and you’ll find that even the smallest step can lead to massive breakthroughs.

Dealing with Setbacks and Rejections

Every journey has its bumps. You might face setbacks, rejections, or unexpected challenges that make you want to give up. But remember, setbacks are not failures—they’re lessons. When something doesn’t go as planned, use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Actionable Tip: After a setback, take 15 minutes to reflect on what happened and jot down one lesson learned. Then, identify the very next step you can take to move forward.
Deep Value Insight: Learning from setbacks transforms obstacles into stepping stones. When you see rejection as a chance to improve, every “no” brings you closer to a “yes.”

Bold Note: Setbacks are part of the process. Embrace them, learn, and take the next step with renewed determination.

Practical Ways to Take the Next Step Today

So, what can you do right now to overcome doubt and keep moving forward? Here are a few practical, actionable strategies tailored for indie business babes:

Create a Daily ‘Next Step’ List:
- Actionable Tip: Each morning, write down one simple task that moves you closer to your goal. It could be as small as sending an email, updating a product photo, or brainstorming new ideas.
- Deep Value Insight: This list is your roadmap to progress. It helps you focus on what matters and turns overwhelming goals into manageable steps.
Celebrate Your Wins:
- Actionable Tip: Keep a success journal where you record every little victory. Celebrate even the small wins—like a positive customer review or a completed task.
- Deep Value Insight: Recognizing your progress builds confidence and reinforces the habit of taking action. It’s a reminder that you’re moving forward, one step at a time.
Leverage Your Network:
- Actionable Tip: Reach out to fellow indie entrepreneurs or mentors when you’re feeling stuck. A quick chat can provide new perspectives and encouragement.
- Deep Value Insight: Community support is invaluable. Sharing your journey with others can help you overcome self-doubt and inspire you to take that next step.
Schedule ‘Action Time’:
- Actionable Tip: Block out a specific time each day dedicated solely to taking action—no distractions, just focused work on one task.
- Deep Value Insight: Regular, focused action is the engine of progress. It turns ideas into reality and builds momentum over time.
Set Realistic Goals and Review Them Regularly:
- Actionable Tip: Break your big dreams into smaller, measurable goals. Review and adjust them weekly to stay on track.
- Deep Value Insight: Realistic goals make progress tangible. Each achieved milestone boosts your confidence and propels you further on your journey.

Bold Reminder: Every single step you take, no matter how small, is a victory over fear. Keep moving forward, and soon you’ll look back and marvel at how far you’ve come.

Your Journey Is Unique

When in doubt, take the next step. Every challenge you face is an opportunity for growth, and every small action is a building block toward your ultimate success. Your handmade business is a testament to your creativity and resilience. Instead of letting fear hold you back, embrace it as part of your journey.

Remember, perfection is a myth—progress is what truly matters. Stay true to your vision, celebrate your small wins, and never be afraid to ask for help when needed. Your next big breakthrough lies just on the other side of fear, waiting for you to step forward. xoxox Cheri

Happy creating, stay bold, and here’s to taking every courageous step on your path to success!