The Surprising Skills I Gained in Business: Real Support for Small Business Owners

When I first started my business, I thought I had a pretty good handle on what I needed to succeed and to provide support for small business owners. A laptop, some decent design tools, a bit of tech know-how, a website—and I was good to go.

Spoiler: I was so wrong.

Yes, those things matter. But what no one tells you is that running a business stretches you far beyond your skill set. It challenges your mindset, your confidence, your time, your energy—basically, everything.

Let me share some of the surprising lessons I’ve picked up along the way.

1. Confidence Is a Skill (and Yes, You Can Build It)

I used to dread phone calls. I’d do anything to avoid them—especially with people I didn’t know. But now? I actually look forward to video chats with new clients.

I’ve even set up a proper business phone number. And I use it—to talk. On the phone. Like a proper business owner.

That shift didn’t come from tech training. It came from experience, growth, and realising I belong in these conversations. Confidence isn’t something you have, it’s something you build.

2. You Can’t Wing Time Management

In the beginning, I honestly thought I could just remember everything. My brain would hold it all.

Spoiler: it didn’t.

What I’ve learned is that I need more than motivation—I need systems. I’m still figuring out what works best for me, but I know this: working smarter doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a process.

3. Your Gut Knows the Truth

Ever had a gut feeling during a discovery call that something wasn’t right, but you took the client on anyway? Yep. Me too.

And it’s always those projects that become the most stressful. I’ve since learned to trust that instinct. If something doesn’t feel like a good fit, it probably isn’t.

4. Burnout Isn’t a Buzzword—It’s Real

I work two jobs, have two young children, and run a home. Burnout? Oh, we’ve met!

But here’s what I remind myself: this isn’t just a hobby. This business is real. It helps people. It makes a difference. And I’m proud of it.

Still, I’ve learned to watch for the signs. To take breaks. To rest without guilt.

5. Likes Don’t Pay the Bills

I used to post content in a panic, just trying to be visible. Now? I plan ahead. I post when I have something worth saying.

And I’ve realised that just because someone isn’t visibly engaging doesn’t mean they’re not watching. Some of the best messages I’ve ever received have come from people who never once liked or commented—until they were ready to work with me.

Support for Small Business Owners: It’s So Much More Than Tech

Yes, I build websites. Yes, I use design tools every day. But the real work—the growth, the wins, the resilience—happens behind the scenes.

Running a business is about confidence, boundaries, intuition, burnout, and learning to back yourself, even when no one else sees the effort you’re putting in.

If you’re feeling stretched or unsure, I see you. And I promise—it’s not just you. Every small step adds up. Every lesson matters. You’re doing better than you think.

I’m always here to help when you need it. Remember, no question is a silly one – you don’t know what you don’t know!

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Take care, and I’ll catch you in the next one!