Lisa Robbin Young

As a solopreneur, you'll wear many hats. From marketing and sales to customer service and admin tasks. It's easy to lose your focus or motivation.. and don't get me started on the household distractions: chores or family that seem to want your attention - or even the latest streaming series (Ted Lasso, anyone?).

I've talked to a LOT of solopreneurs in my time who felt "stuck in a rut", isolated, or unable to take their business "to the next level".

Look, I get it. More often than not, I too have found myself caught up in the day-to-day tasks of running the business. Then, you look up and recognize how far you've come on your own.

Alone.

On one hand, props! It's not easy to build a business. And it's especially challenging doing it by yourself. We Fusion Creatives manage to do a LOT on our own. But that loneliness and sense of disconnection isn't the only problem that comes from trying to do it all on your own.

Take it from someone who knows: it may feel like you're going faster, but at some point, you hit a wall where you're carrying all the things, wearing all the hats, and you just can't add another thing to your plate. What's worse, because you've been trying to manage it all yourself, you may not have built the network and business relationships that could help you take the load off.

Which puts you in a place where it feels like you can't step away from the business - everything is riding on YOU.

Why is community important for creative entrepreneurs?

Finding a supportive community can be vital to your growth and success. Notice the key word here: supportive. I've been part of too many groups that pretended to be communities. Some were little more than places for people to pitch their shizz and try to turn members into their own customers. Either that or propaganda machines where the host didn't allow ANY promotion except for their own stuff.

Blech.

Some were just not a good fit for who I am and how I show up. One community that provides a TON of value to their clients does almost everything in real time (synchronous connection) in order to get support. They have a "group" forum where you can post questions, but the answer is always "show up live in the chat room and we'll help you!"

I have a full calendar most of the time and I wouldn't have joined if I'd known the only way to really get help was to be on in real time. Why have a forum if you never use it?

Other groups just didn't match the level of growth I was at. I've been online for 30-ish years and an online coach for about 20 of them. When I have a complicated question that needs support, I get a lot of crickets in those groups. But I get to GIVE a lot of help, which also has its place. I've learned to balance that desire to give generously with the genuine need for help that I often come to community for.

I'm not trying to be Debbie Downer here. The right community makes a BIG difference. Running a business can be lonely, and having a supportive community can provide much-needed encouragement and motivation. There's nothing like being in a room with people who understand the challenges you face as a solopreneur. Sharing experiences, offering support and advice, and providing a safe space where you can come out of hiding and be witnessed by others on a similar journey is GOLD!

That kind of recognition, safety, and belonging can help you push through tough times (or just witness the "hard" you're going through for moral support). Celebrating your wins builds your confidence, helps you feel more capable and can be just what you need to re-commit to your Great Work when things have been hard for too long. Not that I speak from experience or anything!

When I'm in the right community for me, I discover new tools and strategies that help me streamline my workflow and save time. I get to learn by watching others: the words to use when I ask for help or hold healthy boundaries, contract examples, lessons learned. That shortens my learning curve and saves me a crap ton of resources I don't have to waste! I've also learned best practices for systems and processes that allowed me to better focus on what I do best.

In short, I become a better business owner and a better human when I'm in the right communities for me.

Being a part of the right community can also help keep you accountable for your goals and progress. Sharing your goals with others and receiving feedback and support can keep you on track and motivated. Cheering others on can inspire you to set and achieve your own goals, too!

And yes, a supportive community can also provide valuable networking opportunities, which can lead to collaborations, referrals, and even new clients. Meeting other entrepreneurs in your industry or related industries can open up new doors for your business.

Some communities can be a great place to learn new skills and gain or deepen your knowledge. Whether it's through workshops, webinars, or simply sharing information and resources, being a part of a community can help you grow and develop as an entrepreneur.

How to find community when you're busy

I get it. Being a business owner demands a lot of your time and energy already. So how do we find or create community when we're already strapped for time?

While I've attended a few in-person events and networking-type meetings, I do most of my connecting online. I was on Zoom before Zoom was cool! Before that, it was Skype. Before that, it was teleclasses! I've been around for a WHILE!

Online communities can be a great option for busy entrepreneurs who don't have a lot of time to attend networking events or meetups in person. My preference is hybrid communities. Where there's a face-to-face, "synchronous" connection opportunity in addition to a group, social media page, or app. I've been able to connect with people all over the world through communities like Polka Dot Powerhouse, LunchClub, and others. Some are more familial or social in nature, while others are great places to connect with other entrepreneurs in your industry or niche. In fact, the lessons I've learned from being in those communities have helped inform how we're building our own Rising Tide community!

Another place to look: join a mastermind. A mastermind is a hand-picked small group of folks with common interests or goals. Often, you'll hear this term used to describe entrepreneurial groups, but it can also be for other goals and pursuits as well (a book club or DND group can also function similar to a mastermind). In the business world, you'll meet regularly to support and hold each other accountable to goals or actions you've committed to achieving before the next meeting. Masterminds often provide a deeper level of connection and support than larger communities. You get to know your fellow masterminders more intimately, learn more about their backstory and context, and develop stronger "know like and trust" when you're interacting more regularly.

Attending industry conferences is another way to meet other entrepreneurs while you learn new skills and/or knowledge. Conferences that are relevant to your industry or niche can connect you within your industry, while conferences that are outside your industry can connect you to collaborative partners, potential affiliates, and even new friends or colleagues. Yes, celebrity conventions (ComicCon, D23 Expo, etc) also count. The point is to go places where there are people you'd like to connect with and learn more about. Community doesn't always have to be about business!

Paid or free? While there are plenty of free communities out there, consider investing in a paid community that provides more value and support. Paid groups often have facilitators that can monitor and moderate conversations, answer questions and provide technical support that's hard to come by in a free community. Paid communities are also incentivized to keep engagement cooking. New content, valuable resources, and meeting new connections make paid communities sometimes more valuable than what you can find for free.

Our Rising Tide community is one example that provides resources, training, coaching and other support for creative entrepreneurs. We just migrated off Facebook (for lots of reasons), and our Open House is on now! The Rising Tide is the best of both worlds: a free level that includes a growing learning library for early stage entrepreneurs, and a paid level that gives more advanced entrepreneurs support for issues that might be more complex. We're an inclusive community - meaning all our members at both levels can interact with each other to develop new connections, make new friendships, and learn from one another.

Regardless of how you choose to build your community, do your due diligence. Not every paid (or free) group is worth your investment of time, energy, or money. Ask for a trial period, whenever possible. Then talk to people who've been there a while and get their take on why they stick around. Take note of their answers and see how it jibes with what you're looking for in a community. If it's not a good fit, don't feel obligated to stick around. Thank you for taking care of yourself!

Ultimately, it's easier when you've got a crew to help row the boat. It may be a little slower going at first, but the rewards are much sweeter when it's a team effort.

Sarah owned a small retail store selling vintage clothing that wasn't growing the way she'd expected. She was working way too hard for far too little, and wasn't clear on how to right the ship. Sarah realized she needed help - and fast.

Photo by Anna Shvets

If you want your business to grow to the point where you're getting a positive return on all your resources (ROR), chances are good you'll need help along the way. Just like Sarah. When I'm working with clients, here are a few places I recommend you look first:

  1. Seek help with your finances: If you lack financial experience and expertise, consider hiring a professional to help maximize profits, limit risk, and ensure your business's success. For example, advanced tax services can help you get the best guidance, so your next tax bill and payment are stress-free. From taxes to financial planning, leaving it to the experts can minimize stress and maximize profits, making it a worthwhile investment for your business.
  2. Set and maintain clear goals: Having clear goals in mind will help you know what steps to take and how to reach your dreams. Start by setting small goals that will help you work your way up to more significant milestones. Course correcting or creating new goals can also help you stay proactive and ensure that you have something to strive for.
  3. Respect and appreciate your staff: Showing your team (even if it's still just you) respect and appreciation makes for a better, more effective work environment. Showing them you appreciate their efforts helps build a stronger team and a more successful business. Small gestures like offering pay raises or acknowledging an employee's efforts go a long way. Be kind, friendly, and maintain good relationships with your team to strengthen your business. Yes, that means practicing self-care, too. "Do what you can as you are able" is a mantra around Creative Freedom HQ that we use to remind folks that every one of us has a different capacity for work. Honor that truth as a means of respecting your people.
  4. Focus less on mistakes and more on your wins: Every person and every business makes mistakes. That's how we learn and grow. Learn from them, but don't dwell on them. Focus on learning and growing from your mistakes to maintain a positive mindset and focus on your business's strengths. Celebrate wins and create a positive feedback loop to encourage yourself and your team to continue on the growth path.

Being proactive and seeking help when needed is crucial to growing and supporting your business. Take the time to analyze your business, seek expert guidance, set clear goals, appreciate your team, and learn from your mistakes. Remember, success doesn't happen overnight, but with hard work, dedication, and the right support, you can achieve your dreams.

For nearly 20 years, I've been leading online workshops, teleclasses, and other digital events both inside and outside my A-Club community. I made the decision years ago to host the community piece on Facebook, while the training content lived inside my website inside our Rising Tide Learning Library.

But the last couple of years have shown that things aren't working. We've seen our clients fleeing Facebook with the quickness and our website has had several content security issues that left me pulling my hair out.

It was *finally* time for a change!

The decision to move was not an easy one. It took a couple of years of testing, trying platforms, and a bunch of bumps in the road to get here. Here, I'm sharing some of my lessons learned and the reasons why we're making these changes, along with what to expect once we fully changeover.

My hope is that this level of transparency helps YOU as you're making decisions about how your business needs to run to work for how you're wired to work.

It began at the Cashflow Creator workshop.

A couple of years ago, when I first launched the Cashflow Creator workshop, I ran my own business through the same process I teach my clients. I got clear that things were starting to break down, but I didn't have immediate clarity on how to fix them. The Incubator had become our primary income driver, and that was never supposed to be the plan. It was always meant to be subsidized by the other income of the business.

Then, I had surgery in the summer of 2021... and again in the fall of 2022. There were too many things I wanted to be doing that were getting pushed aside to put out fires. Simply put, I wasn't working for how I was wired to work. I wasn't taking my own advice.

So I sat with my homework from the workshop and re-designed how everything needed to look and flow in order to better fit how I'm wired to work.

I couldn't just change everything overnight. But I was able to map it all out and create a new offer stack that I could star rolling out this year. I shared that map at this year's Customer Journey workshop. One of the first steps was to merge A-Club and the Rising Tide into one program.

We're Putting Everything In One Place

We started the community on Facebook because that's where everyone was, quite frankly. Almost every one of my clients was already hanging out there, and the ones who weren't there didn't want the social/community aspect in the first place.

I tried moving us off facebook several times over the years, but everyone wanted to be where they were already at.

That was fine-ish for community connection, but Facebook is a lousy place to host any training. Don't get me wrong - if you're running a short term event, like a challenge, it can still work, but it's not ideal for hosting content on a long-term basis.

Videos got buried in the group feed, nothing was really easy to find, and people outside the community couldn't access the training without being added to the facebook group - which could impact the safety and connectedness of the established group. That forced the decision to host all the training inside my website.

But that came with a different set of issues. One of them was content security. We started with Wishlist Member (cumbersome), and then integrated LearnDash (didn't accept recurring payments). We cobbled together a solution, but over time, it became a challenge to keep updated. The site went down because of a security issue with a plug in, and it's never been the same since.

Another issue was useage. The free library was seeing a little bit of useage - mostly from fans of the show. They were accessing the bonus downloadables from our episodes, and tapping into a little of the free training. But the courses we'd spent so much time creating were not being fully utilized, and sales were not happening as we'd expected.

On one hand, that's not my problem, because people will use what they're going to use, and ignore the rest.

But on the other it IS my problem if clients aren't using the resources effectively and aren't getting the results they want because the content isn't delivered in a format that works for them.

In talking with clients, most wanted real-time help, or the ability to ask questions without having to find a contact form, draft an email, or whatever. Neruodivergent folks will sometimes "forget what they came in here for" and then the question never gets answered.

So, we've found a platform that allows us to have conversations more fluidly, put all the training content in one place, and provide a community of accountability for everyone!

I've seen a lot of communities come and go... heck, I've left a few myself. Especially if I went looking for help and got crickets... or a bunch of sales pitches instead of genuine help for my issue. The other thing I've seen is communities that rely heavily on you being in the room LIVE all the dang time.

The folks I work with often need something more portable and digestable - because we've got shit to do and don't have time to wait around!

That doesn't mean you don't want some community support, it's just that you need it on YOUR terms.

I've got your back!

I'm excited to introduce you to the NEW Rising Tide community!

What's inside the Rising Tide community?

We've poured countless hours into creating this online space inside Heartbeat, so that you can access everything with ease from any device. It's an on-the-go community of like-minded entrepreneurs, committed to growing their businesses, making a difference in the world, and having fun along the way.

If you're tired of trying to figure out everything on your own and want to be part of a community that not only educates you but also holds you accountable and provides support to help you achieve your business goals, then, the Rising Tide community is for you!

If you've already been part of our free community, you'll know that we've got a free learning library as well as all the bonus downloadables from the Creative Freedom show in there. That's not going away. You can register for the FREE level of our community at any time.

This month, we're ADDING a new tier of paid membership that includes access to all of my digital training programs - including the new Cashflow Creator Workshop we just completed, the Customer Journey and Marketing Plan workshops, content creation sprints, live quarterly planning workshops, and more programs coming later this year, like a comprehensive Sales and Marketing training based on the Fix This Next methodology!

Plus, you'll get to connect with a community of fellow entrepreneurs who share your values and aspirations. You'll have a safe space to ask questions, get feedback, and share your wins and challenges.

No more searching for the latest business growth strategies, no more feeling isolated and alone in your business journey. With the new Rising Tide Community, you'll have on-the-go access to entrepreneurs who share your values and are committed to supporting each other's growth.

A community where you belong

This was huge for me. I've been in plenty of online groups and so-called communities over the years where it felt like I was either being pitched every other day and couldn't really get the help I was looking for.

Not here.

While I can't promise we can answer every question or solve every problem, I can promise that we're here to support and encourage you on your journey. I know how it feels when you post gets crickets, so I'm committed to helping you find answers that actually work for your situation. In my community, I try to know everyone by name, because it's important to me that you feel safe in our space and that you know you belong here.

Our community is designed for interactivity, but you don't have to stay glued to your device - that's not healthy for your business! Chat with other members in real time or as it fits your schedule. Ask questions, get feedback. Show up and shine so we can celebrate you. No judgement, no drama. Just a safe space to practice showing up as the business owner you're becoming and shining like the star you already are!

Be seen. Be supported. Be encouraged.

Here's what you can expect as a member of the paid Rising Tide Community:

  • All the content available at the free tier.
  • Additional live and on-demand training like the Marketing Plan Workshop, Content Creation Sprints, Customer Journey Workshop, and more.
  • Private Community: You'll get access to a private, members-only community where you can connect with other entrepreneurs, share your wins and challenges, and get feedback.
  • Live Quarterly planning workshops delivered in bite-sized sessions to make it easy to get your planning done and dusted!
  • A ticket to the NEW Creative Freedom Live virtual event this fall
  • Quarterly Coaching: You and me, one-on-one each quarter, looking at your business. When you invest in annual membership, you'll get a bonus 1-hour coaching session with me (valued at $1,000).

Plus, with Lisa's guidance and support, you'll learn how to:

  • Build a sustainable and profitable business model that works for you
  • Identify better clients who value your work and are willing to pay top dollar for it
  • Determine what makes you unique, so you can stand out from your competition
  • Create irresistible offers that have the right clients saying "HELL YES!"
  • Nail your pricing strategy
  • Streamline your business operations to free up time and reduce stress
  • Develop a clear vision and strategy for the future of your business

If you're serious about taking your business to the next level, then this is the community for you. Don't wait - join now and start getting the education, accountability, and support you need to grow your business and achieve your goals!

Do you ever feel like you're stuck in a rut with your business? Are you struggling to find new clients or make the income you need to thrive? If so, you're not alone. Many creative entrepreneurs face these challenges, and it can be tough to overcome them especially when you're stuck in a "fixed" mindset.

I've often said that the mindset is more important than the mastery, and research bears this out. You don't need to be perfect and a total genius in order to succeed in business. As a creative entrepreneur, building a successful business is about more than just great ideas. It requires the right mindset - one that is positive, growth-oriented, and resilient in the face of challenges.

Because, hey... stuff happens. Plans go off the rails, and often, your goal isn't always THE goal.

Why is mindset so important?

Studies have shown that our thoughts and beliefs can have a profound impact on our success. When we believe in ourselves and our ability to succeed, we are more likely to take risks, persevere through obstacles, and achieve our goals.

On the other hand, a fixed mindset can lead to self-doubt, fear of failure, and a lack of motivation to take risks and try new things. This can ultimately hold a business back from achieving its full potential and reaching new heights.

I've seen this in many of my clients - brilliantly gifted, yet traumatized by old stories and false beliefs that keep them believing they're not good enough to be shine like the star they are.

It breaks my heart... and it doesn't have to be this way.

Growth mindset lessons from Moana

The Disney movie, Moana, is a great example of a character with a growth mindset. Despite the challenges and obstacles she faces, Moana looks for ways to learn and grow from her experiences. She also seeks out guidance from others and is open to new ideas and perspectives.

When Moana first leaves the island... well, let's just say navigation isn't her strong suit! But, instead of giving up, she seeks out the demigod, Maui for help. Maui initially dismisses her as an inexperienced child, but eventually learns to respect Moana's determination and resourcefulness.

And then there's Te Ka. At first, Moana tries to defeat the monster with brute force, but when she recognizes that the monster is actually Te Fiti (a goddess, NOT a monster!), Moana finds the way to save her island and her people.

So how can we cultivate a positive and growth-oriented mindset? Here are a few tips:

Practice self-awareness

When you're self-aware, you understand your strengths and weaknesses, you know what motivates you, and you're in touch with your values and purpose. That doesn't mean you always get it right, but it means you're learning about yourself in deeper ways. This knowledge helps you make better decisions, take calculated risks, and stay focused on your goals. Recognize when negative thoughts and beliefs are holding you back, and challenge them with positive affirmations and self-talk.

In the Cashflow Creator Workshop series, you'll spend time getting clearer on what's really important to YOU. You'll gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your business, and your goals.

Embrace "failure"

"Failure" is a natural part of the learning process, and can actually be a valuable opportunity for growth and improvement. I believe that failure is not the opposite of success, but rather an essential stepping stone on the journey. By embracing failure and using it to your advantage, you'll be better equipped to build a sustainable and thriving business that can weather any storm.

In our workshop, you'll look at what's been working (and not) in your business, and start to course correct - creating a new vision for your business that works better for how you're uniquely wired to work.

Surround yourself with positivity

Surrounding yourself with positivity is key to maintaining a growth mindset. I don't mean looking for "yes men" or bring all Pollyanna about tough situations. I mean creating an Environment of Empowerment that builds you up and helps you navigate the "hard" and celebrate your wins along the way.

Seek out supportive friends, mentors, and colleagues who believe in you and your vision. By being intentional about the people and communities we engage with, you can cultivate an environment that supports and uplifts you. There's nothing quite as validating as knowing there are people in the world who have your back!

In the workshop, you'll have the opportunity to connect with other like-minded entrepreneurs who share your values and aspirations. You'll also have access to an experienced mentor (moi!) who can offer guidance and support as you navigate the ups and downs of building a sustainable business. With the support of a positive community, you'll be better equipped to overcome obstacles, celebrate successes, and stay motivated on your entrepreneurial journey.

Focus on your strengths

Instead of dwelling on your weaknesses, identify your unique talents and strengths, and find ways to use them to your advantage. By focusing on your strengths, staying in your zone of genius, and delegating tasks that don't align with you, you'll be able to operate at a higher level more consistently and achieve more in less time.

There are things that only you can do - or that only you can do YOUR way. Lean into that. Our workshop will provide you with tools and strategies to help you identify and embrace your strengths, so you can build a business that's not only profitable but also aligned with your values and passions.

Whether or not you join us in the workshop, by adopting these practices, you can start to shift your mindset from one of self-doubt and fear, to one of confidence and growth.

But I would be remiss if I didn't invite you to get all of this and more at the Cashflow Creator workshop! Our goal is to help you build a sustainable, thriving business that works for how you're wired to work. Don't let self-doubt and fear hold you back any longer! Join us and start cultivating the mindset you need to succeed.

Are you ready to turn the volume on your business up to 11 and ROCK!?

Are you ready to rock your business with better clients, better offers, more money, more impact, and the ability to lead your company with ease?

The Cashflow Creator Workshop is your ticket to making it happen! We started on Monday, but you can still hop in and pick up the recordings for the entire week! Plus, you can work directly with me to get help with your business questions - so that you can have a business that works for how you're wired to work.

I'm not one to go on and on about my workshops, because if you've ever attended, then you already KNOW they're packed with specific how-to help that gets you results before you even leave the event. Here's what Teresa said about our last Cashflow Creator event:

photo of Teresa Romain

"This workshop is POWERFUL! And Lisa Robbin Young is a MASTER at the concepts and practices she teaches - not to mention a great coach. I got a level of clarity of purpose and strategy for going forward that had been missing for me. And it's a strategy that EXCITES me and had me saying 'YES! That's ME! I can do that!' Thanks Lisa!"

Teresa Romain - Founder of Access Abundance

This workshop is unlike anything you've experienced before. It's not just another "business tips and tricks" seminar. Instead, we focus on unlocking the power of your business model, so you can build a business that works for how you're wired to work.

If you're tired of feeling stuck and frustrated with your business, then this workshop is for you.

This workshop is not about boring business models! It's about helping you re-design your business to work for how you're wired to work. We use the Creative Freedom business model equation. This tool makes it easy to re-design your business in a way that aligns with your unique talents, strengths, and values. With the Business Model Equation, you'll be able to:

  • Identify better clients who value your work and are willing to pay top dollar for it
  • Determine what makes you unique, so you can stand out from your competition
  • Create a sustainable and profitable business model that works for you

The Business Model Equation is just one of the tools and strategies you'll apply in the Cashflow Creator Workshop. Over the course of the week, you'll also:

  • Use the business model equation to identify and leverage your strengths and passions
  • Create irresistible offers that have the right clients saying "HELL YES!"
  • Nail your pricing strategy
  • Streamline your business operations to free up time and reduce stress
  • Develop a clear vision and strategy for the future of your business
  • Create a foundation of stability in your business

And that's just the beginning!

You'll also have the opportunity to connect with a community of like-minded entrepreneurs who share your values and aspirations and want to celebrate your progress. Plus, there's an experienced mentor (ahem, me!) who can offer guidance and support as you navigate the ups and downs of building a sustainable business.

But time is running out! This is your last chance to join the Cashflow Creator Workshop! Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to unlock the power of your business model and take your business to the next level... whatever that looks like for YOU.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up now and let's get started!

As I mentioned in a separate post, your team is the backbone of your business. They can make or break your success. While finding the right people is key, don't forget to focus on nurturing your team's collective output too. From innovation to customer experience, their productivity affects everything. Want to inspire your team to greatness? Here's how:

Make Them Damn Proud to Work for You

It's not enough for your team to just show up to work. They need to feel connected to the mission and values of your company. Recognizing staff for their hard work can build a sense of pride in the job. Companies like Challenge Coins Ltd can help you celebrate individual achievements or company milestones with custom coins. Supporting causes they care about (outside your company) can also boost morale and reduce staff turnover. Some companies even make it part of their pay structure.

Image - Pixabay CC0 License

Invest in Building Psychological Safety

Fear of judgment and failure can hold your team back. And don't get me started on what micro-aggressions or bullying can do to the safety of a work environment! Building a psychologically safe working environment is crucial to unlocking your team's full potential. There are tools to promote psychological safety and to encourage collaboration. When your team feels safe, they're more likely to take calculated risks, and be willing to create "happy accidents" that lead to creative gains for the company. Safety to take risks and learn from mistakes cultivates more innovative and effective problem-solvers.

Support Employee Wellness

Healthy and happy employees are more productive. So invest in their wellness by offering gym memberships, incorporating screen breaks into their day, and promoting hydration. First aid and mental health resources in the workplace can also make a big difference. Plus, team-building sessions and away days can create better working relationships, which reduces stress and fosters positivity.

Invest in Modern Tech

Your team needs the right tools to do their job well. If you're slow to adopt new technologies, your team's productivity will suffer. Automated tools can keep things running smoothly and increase engagement by providing employees with the resources they need to succeed. Recording employee progress and rewarding them for their hard work can also be motivating. Gamification, combined with recognition rewards can be a big motivator for some team members!

Remember, your team's collective output is essential to your success. So invest in them, celebrate their achievements, and watch your business thrive! With these tips, you can build a kickass team that delivers stellar results.

When you're in the early stages of building a stand-out business, there are lots of moving parts and pieces to keep things running smoothly. There are also a lot of things that seem important, but are just distractions.

So where do you need to focus right from the start?

The things that will move the needle the most.

Easier said than done, right? Because those things can look different for each business. But let's look at the most common things you need to be thinking about right from the start to ensure you're on the path to success.

Pic Credit - CCO License

A Strong Brand

Your brand is the heart and soul of your business, and it's what sets you apart from the crowd. So, take the time to craft a brand that reflects your unique personality and style. Remember, a strong brand will attract the right customers and help you stand out in the marketplace.

A strong brand isn't about flashy websites or spending a lot of dough to "look good". Your brand is your business's identity and how you want to be perceived by the world. It's the story that lives in the hearts of your Raving Fans when you're not actively marketing to them. Take the time to think about how you want your business to come across and create messaging and marketing that reflects that. The stronger your brand is, the better your chances of success.

With a strong brand, your business becomes memorable - even when you're NOT marketing!

Good Advice

Next, seek out good advice. As a creative entrepreneur, you might feel like you can do everything on your own, but the truth is, everyone needs help. Surround yourself with people who have been there and done that, and learn from their experience. Trust me, it'll save you time and energy in the long run.

The right people - including legal experts, consultants, and those who are experts in your specific industry can be invaluable sources of support, encouragement, and insight. And they don't need to be on call 24/7 to be good for you. Expert guidance, that's focused on helping you reach your goals and dreams, will help you have a much higher chance of success and shorten your learning curve..

Building a business can be overwhelming, and you don't have to do it all alone. Seek out mentors, coaches, and experts who can guide you along the way.

When you look at the successes and failures of previous business owners, so much of it comes down to the people they had access to when they started out. In essence, you are in a much better position, with a much higher chance of success, if you are able to get in touch with the right people at the start. Consult legal experts (like Manfred Sternberg & Associates, or other legal consultants) and those who are experts in the needs of your specific industry.

Secure Funding

Of course, we can't forget about the moolah! Cash flow is the lifeblood of your business. If you're self-funding everything, that means you carry all the risk and financial burden. That may or may not be a problem for you, but it's important to know what you're really dealing with when it comes to the "money stuff" in your business.

Look for sources of funding that align with your values and goals. Maybe that's crowd sourcing or finding a lender through Kiva. Or maybe it's your own credit card. Been there. Done that! The key is to have a secure source of funding that will give you the financial stability you need to grow and thrive.

Seek funding you can rely on before you think you'll need it. Because often, when you finally need it, you may have a hard time getting it!

Pic Credit - CCO License

The Best Team

Last but certainly not least, you need to build the best damn team ever! If cash flow is the lifeblood, then your team is the backbone of your business. Who you surround yourself with is arguably the most important factor of all. When you have a team you love (that loves you right back), you'll have a much better chance of success.

Take your time to find the right people for your team. Be willing to let people go that don't fit your team culture (and do it FAST!). This includes contractors, part timers, and anyone else supporting you and your business. The people you surround yourself with are crucial to your business's success. That means your advisors AND your team support! Develop a rock-solid recruitment process that helps you find the right people who share your vision and passion. With a strong team, you can tackle anything that comes your way.

So, there you have it - the four things you need at the start of your business: a strong brand, good advice, secure funding, and the best team you can afford. Remember, building a successful business takes time. It can be challenging, requires effort, and dedication, but with these four elements in place, you'll be on your way to creating a thriving business.

At the end of March, I had the honor of speaking at the TEDxBloomington Salon and it was amazing.

Salons are generally smaller scale TED-style events that are locally curated, like any TEDx event. Unlike a larger, full-day event where the talks can range pretty widely, Salons are generally on a more focused topic. Our topic was (sustain)ABILITY.

The theme still lends itself to some pretty wide-ranging topics, including a sonnet on sustainability, the importance of preserving indigenous language for future generations (and the tech to make it accessible to everyone), how kindness and generosity can sustain us, the 3 steps to find healing in business, and more. I look forward to sharing the talks once they're all uploaded, but for now, I can share my talk on How the Marginalization Tax impacts finding Enoughness for micro businesses. You can also access the bonus resources for my TEDx talk here.

My life is a paradox. As a business coach and entrepreneur, I rely on Capitalism to keep food on the table. And I help my clients to do the same. But as a human being, I also rail against what it seems like Capitalism has become: a money-grubbing, soul-crushing free-for-all for the wealthy elite that would rather leave our big blue marble than invest in healing, protecting, and sustaining it.

About 40% of my clients are multiply marginalized, many with a chronic illness, disability, or other capacity-limiting constraints that have essentially forced them to leave traditional employment and go out on their own because it works for how they're built. Forced, because capitalism asks more of us than we can consistently give, and no one feels this quite as much as the marginalized people of the world.

Entrepreneurship then, becomes a way for them to "leverage" the capacity they DO have - but not everyone is equipped to meet the challenges of entrepreneurship.

The incessant invitation to grow for growth's sake is a siren's song that hypnotizes entrepreneurs into the trap of adding one more zero to our revenue… and then another… and then another. But that "MORE" doesn't include room for things like more rest, more play, more ease - unless you hustle your face off first. There's this persistent myth that if you just work hard enough long enough and do your best, you'll make it to that "some day" where you can retire in style.

But Capitalism asks for more than many of us can give. And it has a bad habit of moving the goal posts on us.

With so many companies shooting for the moon - both literally and figuratively, this incessant drive for "More" isn't a sustainable path. How do we find the sustainable path in business? We strive for Enoughness instead.

When we look to nature, a cactus can thrive on very little water and a lot of sun. That is Enoughness for the cactus. If you flood the desert, the cactus rots. If you take away the sun, the cactus starves.

So Enoughness looks different in different situations.

For the folks that I work with, Enoughness is a result of building a business that works for their unique situation.

They are not corporate behemoths. They are parents, artists, travelers, authors, healers, activists, and more. They want a living wage that allows them to retire a spouse or provide for their families, and be able to enjoy the fruits of their labors - even when Capitalism tries to ask more of them than they can give on their own.

For years, I've taught what I call your Enoughness Number. It's essentially the revenue your business needs to bring in on an annual basis in order to have an experience of Enoughness. Not excessive, but appropriate. Not just subsisting, like so many marginalized folks do, but thriving.

But then one of my non-normative clients pointed out that I had not taken into account the additional resources required to navigate a world that asks more of you than you can give. We dubbed this added cost The Marginalization Tax.

At that time I was still under the spell of meritocracy. Just work harder. Keep working, and eventually you'll get there…. however long THAT is. I had always been able to keep working… until the day I needed back surgery. For eleven days I was unable to walk, stand, or otherwise move my body without substantial pain and significant help.

I was lucky I had help at home and owned my own business. If I'd been in a traditional job, I probably would have been fired or forced to use all my time off. And then where would I be for the rest of the year?

This tax is a spectrum of disadvantage based on a number of things like skin color, religion, gender expression, geography, age, body shape, economic status, social status, and basically any circumstance where there's a power imbalance that puts one group of people at an advantage to the detriment of others.

For example (and this isn't exhaustive, but you'll get the idea): I'm a cis, straight, neurodivergent, mixed-race, black woman that presents as white and able-bodied. I'm almost 50 and my body shape is not the socially accepted norm. I have a mix of privilege and disadvantage that impacts the resources I need. The more resources I need, the greater the marginalization tax I pay to participate in this world.

So let's look at what Enoughness looks like both with and without the Marginalization Tax applied so you can see how this works.

First, what are your total living expenses? Let's say $60k

Now add to that your growth. Maybe you've got a nice-to-have or a want that you'd like to see happen in the next year. That's your take-home pay requirement.

If you're a business owner, on top of your take home pay, what are the other "living expenses" of your business?

Then add your business growth to that. Maybe you want to launch a new offer and need to invest in infrastructure or support. Put it in your total.

Now add all that up and add a 10% cushion for unplanned surprises. They happen.

That's already a large number for a small business.

But, now we add the Marginalization Tax.

Based on where you fall on the spectrum, this could be anywhere from zero to as much as 50% of the total. Think that's steep? According to a 2021 report from the national women's law center, black women make a million dollars less over their career than white men. That's 37% less. That is the Marginalization Tax in action.

So we total this all up and there it is - one Enoughness Number that's drastically different than it would be if you didn't have to pay this tax.

Unlike the taxes you pay to your government each year, the bill for the Marginalization Tax comes due each day. This weekend my husband bought some cookies for $4. But I can't eat those cookies because some of the ingredients will hurt me. If I wanted to have a comparable amount of cookies that I can eat, I'd have to pay nearly 3 times as much - or I could spend just a few dollars more for all the ingredients and make them myself. Which would take an additional 45 minutes out of my day.

He can just open a package of cookies and go to town! The Marginalization Tax means I pay significantly more either in time or money - resources I may or may not have - just to enjoy a cookie.

Now you might say, "But Lisa, that's a cookie. A treat. You don't NEED a cookie. You can live without a cookie."

Yes, but why should I have to settle for less just because my body is built differently than yours?

But, let's say you're right and look at another case: One of my clients applied for medical disability long before we started working together. She had a profitable business that she'd built around her chronic illness which was so severe and variable that she never knew what her capacity to work would be like from one day to the next. Once she got approved for disability, she shut it all down. She said to me, "I can't jeopardize my disability payments. What if I go off disability and then my business has a down year? I'll have to re-apply and go through all of this all over again - and I might not survive!"

I don't blame her for wanting to protect herself and know that she can survive in a world that makes it hard for her to just exist. I blame the system where the deck is stacked against some of us and not others. That is the impact of the Marginalization Tax.

Everyone should be able to experience enoughness - a fully belly, a warm bed, and the safety of knowing they have what they need to thrive. There's certainly plenty on this planet to make it possible. But the playing field isn't level. What's worse, Capitalism keeps moving the goal posts.

But I believe that the best way to change a system is from the inside. That's why I'm a business owner. That's why I help other business owners - who aren't trying to hustle their face off to be a squijillionaire. They just want to find the balance that allows them to be paid well, within their capacity constraints, and have the time and energy to enjoy the fruits of their labors.

We don't need more rockets into space. We need more business owners striving for Enoughness for everyone.

When we have Enoughness it's… well, it's enough.

Like I said, it's a paradox.

Can I be blunt for a moment?

I can't STAND the phrase "take your business to the next level". I think it's overused and too generic to have any real meaning.

And that's EXACTLY why so many business coaches - especially in the online world - use it. Yes. I use it too... which is part of what bugs me about it!

It's a blanket, "catch-all" phrase that allows them to paint a huge picture without really saying anything at all. You're left to use your imagination to figure out what "next level" really means.

I mean, I get it. It's a phrase that resonates for folks because it suggests progress and growth. Going up the elevator from the ground floor to the penthouse. That idea of "started from the bottom, now we're here."

But it's so generic! Taking your business to the next level could mean increasing your revenue, expanding your customer base, or improving your marketing strategies. By using a broad and flexible phrase like "take your business to the next level," a coach can appeal to a wide range of potential clients and highlight the various benefits they offer.

Which is great for the coach, but not necessarily great for you.

What does a "Next Level" business even look like?

You don't want generic outcomes, you want specific help tailored to your situation. That's why you hire a coach in the first place! And the kind of "next-level" lift you need may not actually be what that coach is offering.

What if you need help through an audience pivot? I did. I needed specific help from someone who understands how to do an audience pivot. The idea of "taking my business to the next level" meant reaching more of those new, perfect-fit audience members. So, I put out a call to find a new coach, and what I got back was very telling.

I was specific in my request. Dozens of folks raised their hands and when I went to their websites to vet them more than HALF of them were talking about "next level" results.

Gag me.

Most of the coaches I talked to couldn't help me until I was already pivoted. But not with help finding these folks. Which, you know, needs to happen before I can market my offers to them!

So why raise your hand in the first place?

I ended up wasting a LOT of time talking to people who were good at things that I didn't even ask for! All because they wouldn't be specific enough in their marketing and messaging to help me understand what they offer and how they could REALLY help me... or if they understood my problem at all!

"Next Level" is a shorthand leaves a lot of room for interpretation

Using a common phrase like "take your business to the next level" can be a helpful shorthand for communicating the overall goal of their coaching services. It's a quick and catchy way to get potential clients interested in what they have to offer, and cast a wide net, but when you need specific help, this phrase is mostly worthless.

If "take your business to the next level" can mean different things for different people, depending on their goals and aspirations, then you have no real clarity. It could mean pushing past your current limits, reaching new heights, and tapping into your full potential as a business owner and as an individual, just as easily as it could mean expanding your customer base, increasing your revenue, improving your products or services, and creating more value for your customers.

That's a painting with a VERY broad brush!

No wonder potential clients get confused, throw their hands up, and walk away!

Specificity is clarity. Clarity builds confidence, which feeds your ability to take courageous actions (like saying YES and hiring a new coach!)

Define "Next Level" for yourself BEFORE you look for a coach

To make the term "take your business to the next level" meaningful, have in mind specific examples of what that might look or feel like for you.

For instance, taking your business to the next level could mean achieving a certain revenue target, expanding your customer base, launching a new product or service, or simply improving your overall brand image and reputation. It could also mean feeling more fulfilled and passionate about the work you do, having more freedom and flexibility in your schedule, and feeling more confident and empowered in your ability to make a difference in your industry.

If you're not clear about what you want or need from a coaching experience, you're more likely to be lured into "next level" language that doesn't get you where you really want to go.

Sadly, most coaches aren't providing specific examples so potential clients can better understand the value of choosing them. Instead, they're relying on lazy "next level" language that isn't helping you at ALL.

But you can make smart decisions by being clear and upfront with what you want or need from a coach. Don't equivocate. Ask them directly: how can you help me achieve x?

Don't let "next level" jargon hypnotize you into saying yes if you're not clear the coach can help.

And if you're ready to get real support to build a business that works for how you're wired to work, let's talk! A few seats are still available for this month's Cashflow Creator business model workshop series. Together, we'll design (or redesign) your business to be in alignment and integrity with what matters most to you and how you're uniquely wired to work.

For years, I've held connection calls where I hop on zoom for 20-30 minutes to get to know a new networking connection. Invariably, a business question pops up and most of the time I can spot a solution to their issue before the end of the call.

In many of these cases, I was able to help them see a way to open up a new income stream, refine a system or process, or just make their business easier in a matter of minutes. Not long ago, I was talking with a guy and by the end of the call we'd mapped out a new approach to one of his existing offers.

That new approach landed him a $15,000 deal later that same day.

I know that might sound a bit unbelievable, but I have receipts. This was both a blessing and a curse for me. A blessing, because I've been able to help hundreds of people over the years. A curse because, for years, I didn't really know how I was doing it.

So, I finally sat down and spent time examining how my brain works... the questions I was asking in order to get those kinds of results for total strangers.

That's how the Creative Freedom Business Model Equation was born! Once I had it worked out, I tested it with a few of my clients before rolling it out in last year's CashFlow Creator Workshop.

I'm excited to announce that we've re-opened the doors to this popular workshop and I'll be hosting it again this month!

The Cashflow Creator Workshop is designed for entrepreneurs and business owners who want to create a business that reflects their personality, voice, and style and connects with more of their ideal clients and customers with greater ease. More money, more time to enjoy it. A business that works for how you're wired to work.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to rebrand and redesign your business, this workshop will provide you with the guidance and support you need to succeed. By the end of the workshop series, you'll have a personalized roadmap for building or refining your business, based on your unique lifestyle and goals.

What can you expect from the workshop series?

This 5-day workshop series, running from April 17-21, will provide you with the tools and guidance you need to design a business model that works for how you're wired to work. Each day, we'll focus on one part of the Creative Freedom Business Model Equation. By the end of the workshop, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of what is and isn't working in your business and how to fix it.

You

Day one of the workshop will focus on the first part of the Equation: You. We'll dive deep into what really matters for you, including your values, personal context, and the mission/vision for your business. We'll look at how those things play together and what your non-negotiables are to actually feel successful. At the end of the day, you'll be able to communicate clearly the strengths that you bring to the table through your company, and what's most important for you - both personally and professionally - so that you can have a business that supports you to have more of what you want and less of what you don't!

Why

On Day 2, we'll dive deep into the "why" of your business. Not YOUR personal "why" - although that's important, too. Instead, we'll explore why you're in this line of work, what motivates and inspires you, and what makes you uniquely qualified to do what you do. We'll also examine the core purpose of your business, the change you want to see in the world, and the impact you want to have on your customers or clients. By the end of the day, you'll have a clear understanding of the driving force behind your business, which will help you create a brand message that resonates with your ideal audience and sets you apart from the competition.

Who

On Day 3, we'll dive into the "who" of your business model equation. We'll take a deep dive into your ideal clients from a different angle - those who already resonate with your "you" and "why" elements. Instead of trying to conjure up some niche market out of thin air, we want to connect more deeply with people who already resonate with who you are and why you do what you do. We'll explore who your ideal customers are, where they hang out, what they want and need, and how your business can best serve them. By the end of the day, you'll have a clear picture of who your business is for, and how to speak directly to their needs and desires.

What

On day four, we'll dive into the "what" element of your business model. We'll explore the transformation your offer provides for your clients or customers and identify any gaps or areas for improvement in your current offers. This day is all about fine-tuning your offers so they are aligned with your unique value proposition and the needs of your ideal clients or customers.

How

Day five will be dedicated to the "how" of your business model. You can deliver the same "what" in different ways - different "how's". A book, a course, and a video, for example are different ways to delivery the same "what". We'll examine the delivery and pricing of your offers, as well as your marketing strategy. By the end of this day, you'll have a solid understanding of how to package and promote your offers in a way that resonates with your ideal clients or customers, and generates the cash flow you need to sustain and grow your business.

What others have said

This is one of my favorite testimonials from our workshop last year:

photo of Teresa Romain

"This workshop is POWERFUL! And Lisa Robbin Young is a MASTER at the concepts and practices she teaches - not to mention a great coach. I got a level of clarity of purpose and strategy for going forward that had been missing for me. And it's a strategy that EXCITES me and had me saying 'YES! That's ME! I can do that!' Thanks Lisa!"

Teresa Romain - Founder of Access Abundance

Other attendees said they also experienced:

  • A better understanding of their unique strengths, skills, and values, and how to leverage them to create a profitable and sustainable business.
  • Increased confidence and motivation to take action and make positive changes in their business.
  • Clarity on their ideal client and how to best serve them with their offers and pricing.
  • A new direction for their business that feels fresh and meaningful
  • New offer ideas to roll out and make (a LOT) more money with greater ease

So if you're serious about having a business that works for how you're wider to work, get your buns over to my info page and register for the CashFlow Creator Workshop series and take the first step towards a fulfilling and sustainable business.

I'm capping registration at 20 people. If financial accessibility is an issue for you, please reach out. Partial scholarships or grants may be available.