5 Lessons from a Female Business Owner 4 Years Into Entrepreneurship

In partnership with

4 Million People Found Peace with BetterHelp – What’s Stopping You?

Do you find yourself stuck in a loop of worry and self-doubt? You’re not alone. Millions struggle with these thoughts, but you don’t have to. BetterHelp therapists specialize in helping clients change unhelpful thinking patterns and build healthier habits. Answer a free 5-minute quiz to get matched with a therapist today and start therapy from your phone, computer, or through text. Plus, use your FSA/HSA dollars to cover therapy and enjoy 30% off your first three months. Don’t wait—take control of your mental health now.

Claim 30% Off

I've been my own boss since 2020. Along the way, I’ve learned quite a few things about freelancing, owning a business, and how to lead myself.  

I’ve gotten it wrong a lot. I’ve redefined what success means. I’ve said yes to projects just because I needed the money. And I’ve said yes to opportunities that scared the hell outta me. 

We never stop growing no matter how long we do this. There’s always going to be a problem to solve, a business plan to pivot, a marketing strategy to implement, goals to reach, and success to find. 

I never claim to have this all (business and life) figured out. 

So, these are 5 lessons I’m still learning 4 years into this thang. 

1. Send the follow-up email. Some of those last ditch effort follow-ups have led to landing the gig. One thing about me? I have no fear sliding into an inbox. Shooting my shot with a pitch is such a low risk in my mind. What’s the worst thing they can say – no? That is just my thank u, next. 

2. You teach people how to treat you. Ooof, if this isn’t something I remind myself of at least once a week. I’m still learning how to advocate for myself, my time, and my rates. Unfortunately, I’ve realized that companies don't always prioritize contractors in the way they should. If I don’t stand up for myself in this business, no one else will. I’m on my own, kid. 

Writer’s note: How many song references can I add to the end of each lesson? Let’s find out.

3. It's ok to say no. In the beginning I said yes to every project that came my way because I needed the money and it was a great way to build my portfolio. However, I've since learned it's OK to pass on projects. Saying no frees up my margin to say yes later when an assignment more aligned with my goals comes along. I always trust that a better opportunity is on its way to me and I should've said, "No".

4. Ride the wave, baby. Sometimes I’m so busy with multiple projects I feel overwhelmed and sometimes my week feels so slow I’m convinced I’ll never find work again. Leaning into the discomfort of inconsistent contract work has become the driving force behind my motivation. The ebb and flow of freelance life is inevitable so I'm tapping into creative ways to ride the wave instead of fearing it. I’m just out here surfin' USA (this one was a stretch, honestly).

5. My professional development is my responsibility. It’s just as important for me to invest time into developing my self-leadership as it is to grow my business. I'm always looking for new ways to develop myself and strengthen my craft. I do this by reading a lot of books and articles, attending creative conferences, networking within my industry, and prioritizing time away from my computer. I’m workinngggg lateee, cause I’m a writerrrr. (This is getting bad, I’m stopping here.)

This world of entrepreneurship and running businesses is hard work. When we’re the only person in charge of our work, no one is going to stop and tell us how good of a job we’re doing. So I will say it, you’re doing good things and you’re worthy of staying in the arena. I needed to hear that, too. 

If this was an easy path, women-owned businesses would be running the world. What a dream! Until then, we’re the chosen few who continue to bet on ourselves every day. And I think we’re all doing a pretty damn good job at it. 

(Sorry for cursing twice in one newsletter. Your words matter, even the four letter ones!)

I’m honored to be in this community with you. 

Xo, Your Salesgirl Social Marketing Editor, Nicole