We have been having beautiful fall weather here in Minnesota and it’s reminded me of so many happy memories! When my kids were little, we always took a trip to an apple orchard. They loved exploring and running around and I loved buying juicy apples to eat and bake with. Over the years, we learned about apple trees (and even had some at our house for a few years). We learned that smaller is better. Pruning the branches is important so the sunshine can hit every branch. Waiting until the right time to harvest the apples is crucial. And sometimes it takes a few years before you see the fruit. I run three branches of our business: Rogers School of Music, Never Alone Business Services and Never Alone Coaching. Each one is like an apple tree. I keep each one pruned and small-ish, so it will produce good fruit. We pay ourselves first—and then decide how to spend the rest of the profits on staff, leases, automations, and services. I’ve never had the mindset of: “I’ll build this huge machine and eventually it will pay off.” We have intentionally grown slower and made sure we were always on payroll (no matter how small the check was!). Sometimes we choose to cut expenses and trim branches back, to keep the entire structure healthy. There are programs we have discontinued and services we no longer offer. These branches were sucking our time and attention away from the rest of the business, and were not producing good fruit. It was time for them to go. Sometimes my business has felt “too small” compared to other people doing impressive things. But then I hear about their 12 hour work days and they say it’s impossible to go on vacation. They tell me they are the only ones who can answer the phone or unlock the building. It makes my heart sad and I realize that smaller and healthier is better. So what do you do if your business is overgrown and not producing fruit (income)?
This week’s video is about apple trees. I want you to hear more about how you can grow your business strong and healthy-- and properly supported. I hope it encourages you as you grow and nurture your business. It’s never too late to make adjustments or changes in your life! Be brave. Your future self will thank you. The Inner Circle is Open for New MembersWithin our Never Alone Inner Circle, you get the support you need, exactly at the stage where you are at. We form small coaching circles so you can connect with other members on a deeper level. We are always encouraging and supportive--no matter what you're going through or what stage your business is in.
If you want to talk more, just schedule a call to talk. Let's talk about your goals and get you there. https://www.jenhickle.com/gac.html Check out this short video about Tracy's experience in the Inner Circle:
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About the AuthorI'm Jen Hickle. I love coffee, journaling, reading, and cozy evenings. A business owner for 20+ years, I can't imagine having a corporate job or running in the rat race. I love my freedom and my family and the opportunity to encourage fellow business owners every day. Archives
October 2020
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