3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Business

Starting a business is often described as exciting, bold, and full of possibilities. And while that’s true, what people don’t talk about as much is how messy and overwhelming those early days can feel. When I launched my first practice, I was fueled by passion and a clear desire to serve—but I also had moments of doubt, late nights of paperwork, and more questions than answers.

Looking back now, I realize there are a few things I wish I had known before I started. If you’re a woman thinking about taking that first step—or maybe you’ve already begun and are wondering if you’re “doing it right”—this is for you.

If you’re starting a business as a woman, these are the things I wish I knew before starting a business—and they’re lessons that can save you time and energy.

1. You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out

I used to think I needed a perfect plan before I could start. The right logo, the right website, the right strategy—all lined up before I could “officially” be in business. What I learned is that clarity often comes after you begin, not before.

Starting is less about knowing every step ahead of time and more about being willing to learn as you go. Your business will evolve, just like you will. Give yourself permission to begin imperfectly.

For practical guidance, the SBA Women-Owned Business Guide is a great starting point.

2. Money Mindset Matters More Than You Think

When I first started, I focused on the technical pieces: licenses, paperwork, and pricing. But what really shaped my growth was something I hadn’t considered—my relationship with money.

As women, we often carry complicated stories about money: that wanting to earn more is “selfish” or that purpose and profit can’t exist together. The truth? Profit doesn’t cancel out purpose. It gives you more freedom to serve, to expand, and to show up fully.

Shifting your money mindset for entrepreneurs is one of the most important business tips for women entrepreneurs. It’s how you build confidence while growing with purpose.

Learning to shift your money mindset is just as important as any business strategy. If you’re curious, platforms like Ellevest offer helpful perspectives on financial wellness for women.

3. You Can’t Do It All Alone (and You Don’t Have To)

In the beginning, I tried to wear every hat—marketing, billing, client care, admin, social media, you name it. And while that hustle taught me resilience, it also taught me exhaustion.

Building a business doesn’t mean doing everything yourself. Support can look like hiring a bookkeeper, working with a coach, or simply surrounding yourself with a community of women who understand. Asking for help isn’t a weakness; it’s one of the smartest business moves you can make.

This is one of the reasons I created coaching and consulting services designed to support women entrepreneurs who are ready to grow without burning out.

Final Thoughts on Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting a Business

If you’re standing at the edge of starting

your business—or maybe you’ve already jumped in and are still finding your footing—I want you to know this: you don’t have to do it perfectly.

Start with what you know, be open to learning, and remember that your voice, your vision, and your way of leading have a place in this world.

Your journey won’t look like anyone else’s, and that’s the point. If you’d like to know more about me and my own journey, you can read my story here.

If you’ve been searching for small business tips for women or wondering how to start a business with confidence, remember—you don’t have to do it alone.

Ready to Take Your Next Step?

Building a business doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—and you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready for clarity, confidence, and support that meet you where you are, explore my coaching and consulting services.

Ready to Build Your Business with Clarity?