52 Lessons I Learned During My First Year in Business
It’s been 8 years since I started my very first job as a registered nurse.
Fresh out of college, I started working in my first role as a night shift med-surg nurse, a role I kept for nearly 5 years.
I shifted into ambulatory care for a short stint, but in late 2021, my partner and I decided to try traveling.
So, I applied for a travel agency, sold everything I owned, packed what was left, and headed out on my first travel assignment.
It kiiind of rocked my world, but I survived and decided to start writing more seriously because of it.
Most recently, I started working in Quality Management, where I’ve been graced with the funding, energy, and inspiration to start and run my own business while working full-time.
When I started that very first job, though, I never would have imagined that years later, I’d draw on all my nursing skills to start my very own business.
Now, I’ve been in business for ONE year. 🤯
Holy sh*t — I can hardly believe it honestly.
It feels like it’s been ages and absolutely flown by at the same time.
I’m certainly not where I imagined myself to be after one year in business. But I’ve learned so many lessons along the way, and I want to share them with you.
So, Let’s Talk About What I Learned During My First Year in Business:
1. The learning curve might feel impossibly slow while you’re in the thick of it. But it takes time to get good at business. Keep learning and growing because everything feels hard — until it doesn’t. Your perseverance and resilience will help you overcome your challenges and teach you hard lessons (but necessary lessons) along the way.
2. There’s no “perfect” business plan. To get started in business, you only really need to focus on market research and product validation — after that, you can run your business however you see fit. Your business won’t follow any typical “path” anyway. You have to adapt and refine as you become more attuned to your goals and what your market wants from your business. Take imperfect action, create the business, and adjust your “plan” as you go.
3. Clarity emerges through action. The longer you’re in the arena, the clearer your path will become, so don’t allow yourself to get stuck in dreaming alone, analysis paralysis, or falling into YouTube’s “I’m just doing research” abyss. Go out, make quick decisions, iterate what works, and change what doesn’t.
4. Embrace your “failing forward” moments. Mistakes aren’t setbacks but rather opportunities for growth. Each failure is a stepping stone to success, offering valuable lessons that propel you forward. Reframe failures as part of the innovation process, not just obstacles.
5. Set clear goals. I know it sounds totally lame, but setting goals is like giving yourself a roadmap for where you want your business to go. Without clear goals, it’s easy to get lost or distracted by shiny objects. In your first year, focus on small, achievable milestones that keep you moving forward and celebrate every win, no matter how small.
6. Get to know your market. Understanding your market isn’t just about doing a one-time research project — it’s an ongoing process. Stay curious about what your audience needs and how you can solve their problems better than anyone else. The more you know about your market, the more tailored your offerings will be, making you indispensable!
7. Don’t ignore the legal stuff. Legalities might seem tedious or overwhelming, but they’re crucial to protecting your business. Invest in good contracts, understand the basics of your business structure, and make sure you’re compliant with relevant laws. It might not feel exciting, but trust me, it’s worth the peace of mind.
8. Master your time management. Time management can make or break your productivity, especially when you’re juggling multiple roles in your business. Learn to prioritize tasks that move the needle, and don’t be afraid to say no to distractions. Remember, it’s not about being busy — it’s about being practical and effective with the limited time that you do have.
9. Create a strong visual brand identity. Your visual brand is often the first thing people notice, so make it count! Since our brains process images faster than text, a cohesive and clear brand identity helps you stand out and be memorable. Invest in quality design, color palette, and photography that reflects your values and speaks to your ideal client — because first impressions really do matter.
10. Build a website that strategically tells your story — because your story is what really matters. Web design and brand photography only serve to complement the story. Yes, your brand’s visual identity makes your message more engaging, but your brand’s story is what sets you apart from the competition and helps your audience connect with you on a deeper level. Your website copy should tell your story using magnetic messaging so your audience is inspired and empowered to take action and convert from casual lurkers to loyal AF customers.
11. Stories help us make sense of negative experiences. Your story, including the challenges you’ve faced, is what makes you relatable and trustworthy. Sharing how you’ve overcome obstacles builds a connection with your audience and shows them you’re resilient. Don’t shy away from your struggles — embrace them as part of your journey.
12. Data + Stories = Impact. Statistics alone can be dry and uninspiring, but when you pair them with storytelling, you create something powerful. Use data to back up your claims, but weave it into a narrative that resonates emotionally with your audience. That’s how you spark change and inspire action!
13. Develop a unique selling proposition (USP). Your USP is what makes you different from everyone else in your market. It’s essential to clearly communicate why your service is unique and why potential clients should care. This clarity not only attracts the right people but also convinces them to choose you over competitors.
14. Make it personal. Your copy should feel like a conversation with a friend — relatable, engaging, and real. Personal connections are powerful, and the more your audience feels like they’re getting to know you, the stronger their trust and loyalty will be. DROP the professional jargon and let your personality shine through instead!
15. Writing copy for SEO doesn’t mean sacrificing your voice or clarity. It’s about striking a balance between appealing to search engines and connecting with your audience. By optimizing your content, you increase your chances of being found by those who need what you offer — without losing your authentic tone.
16. Getting the word out about what you do is super important for attracting clients. Marketing isn’t just about selling — it’s about telling your story, sharing your value, and attracting the right clients. But don’t be afraid to promote yourself because if people don’t know you exist, they can’t benefit from what you offer. Consistency in your marketing efforts will keep you on your audience’s radar.
17. If people don’t understand the problem you solve, they won’t buy into your solution. Your copy needs to clearly define the issue your audience is facing and how your service addresses it. Make it easy for potential clients to see why they need you.
18. Social media is a powerful tool for boosting your visibility and engagement, but only if you’re active and consistent. Don’t expect to go viral or for your ideal audience to easily find you unless you’re putting yourself out there consistently. Social media is about connection first. (But this can also be a complicated game to play. So don’t rely on social media as your sole form of marketing your business — it’s only one piece to the puzzle!)
19. Diversify your marketing strategy. Relying on just one marketing channel is like putting all your eggs in one basket — it’s risky and can limit your reach. Spread your efforts across multiple platforms (social media, email marketing, SEO, paid ads, etc.). Diversifying your marketing strategy ensures you’re connecting with your audience in various ways and protects your business from unexpected changes in any one channel.
20. Create strong calls-to-action (CTA). Every piece of content should guide your audience toward the next step — whether that’s signing up for your newsletter, booking a consultation, or making a purchase. A strong CTA is clear and compelling and makes it easy for people to take action. Don’t leave them guessing what to do next.
21. Providing free value is one of the best ways to attract and engage potential clients. Whether it’s a helpful blog post, a downloadable resource, or a free consultation, offering something valuable upfront builds trust and showcases your expertise. It’s the first step in turning a visitor into a loyal customer.
22. Create valuable content. Content is king, but only if it’s valuable to your audience. Share insights, tips, and advice that position you as an expert. A well-planned content calendar helps you stay consistent and ensures you’re always delivering something of value to your audience.
23. Build an email list. An email list is one of the most valuable assets you can have for your business. It’s a direct line to your audience, allowing you to nurture relationships, share exclusive content, and drive sales. Start building your list early, and don’t be shy about asking people to join!
24. Learn how to create effective sales funnels. A well-designed funnel nurtures your leads, builds trust, and makes it easier for people to buy from you. Invest time in learning how to create effective funnels — it’s a skill that will pay off in spades.
25. Selling isn’t about being a pushy car salesman — it’s about confidently communicating the value of what you offer. The better you are at selling your services, the more successful your business will be. Practice your sales pitch, learn to handle objections, and always focus on how you can help your client.
26. First impressions matter, and your client onboarding process sets the tone for your entire relationship. A smooth, welcoming onboarding experience makes clients feel valued and sets the stage for long-term loyalty. Make sure your process is clear, efficient, and client-focused.
27. Clear communication is the foundation of strong relationships, whether with clients or collaborators. Misunderstandings can lead to frustration and wasted time, so always strive to be clear, concise, and open in your communication. It builds trust and ensures everyone is on the same page.
28. Feedback is a goldmine for growth. Listen to what your clients say about your work, and use their insights to improve your services. Happy clients are more likely to become repeat customers and recommend you to others, so take their feedback seriously.
29. Showcase your clients’ successes in your content. Client testimonials and case studies are powerful tools for building credibility. They provide social proof that you deliver on your promises and give potential clients confidence in choosing you. Regularly update your website and marketing materials with fresh testimonials to keep your credibility strong.
30. You have control over who you work with. One of the perks of being your own boss is that you get to choose your clients. Work with people and projects that align with your values and excite you! Not every client will be a perfect fit, and that’s okay — focus on building relationships with those who are.
31. Rejection is a natural part of business, and it’s something you’ll face no matter how good you are. Instead of fearing it, learn to embrace it as a stepping stone to success. Remember, the answer is always no if you don’t ask, so keep putting yourself out there.
32. Set your rates with confidence. Pricing can be tricky, but it’s important to set rates that feel right for you and reflect the value you provide. There will always be someone charging more or less, but your pricing should align with your expertise and your target market’s expectations. Confidence in your rates leads to confident clients.
33. Cultivate a healthy money mindset. Money is simply a tool, not something to fear or feel guilty about. Embrace the idea that you are worthy of making, having, and spending money. A positive money mindset opens up opportunities and helps you attract the financial abundance you deserve.
34. Networking outweighs cold pitching. Building relationships is far more effective than cold pitching. Networking allows you to connect with others in your industry, exchange ideas, and open doors you didn’t even know existed. Focus on genuine connections rather than just trying to sell yourself.
35. Invest in professional development. The business landscape is constantly changing, and staying competitive means keeping your skills and knowledge up to date. Growth requires commitment, and that often means putting money into your own development. Invest in courses, workshops, and resources that help you grow as a professional. Continuous learning keeps you ahead of the curve and enhances your value to clients.
36. Find a mentor who can provide invaluable guidance, insights, and support as you navigate your business journey. Look for someone who has been where you want to go and is willing to share their experiences. Their advice can save you time, money, and a lot of trial and error.
37. Embrace problem-solving. Challenges will come, but those who succeed are the ones who face them head-on and find solutions. Keep experimenting, keep iterating, and keep pushing forward until you reach your desired outcome.
38. Analyze and adapt your strategies. The best strategies are the ones that evolve over time. Regularly analyze your efforts, see what’s working, and be willing to adapt when necessary. Data-driven decisions help you refine your approach and improve your results, so don’t be afraid to tweak and experiment!
39. Track your finances. Financial literacy is CRITICAL to running a successful business. Keep a close eye on your earnings and expenses, and make sure you understand your financial reports. Knowing where your money is coming from and where it’s going helps you make informed decisions and keep your business on solid ground.
40. You are fully responsible for your outcomes and your business’s success or failure. While external factors can influence your journey, your actions ultimately determine your outcomes. Take ownership of your choices, learn from your mistakes, and celebrate the heck out of your wins — they’re all part of your growth!
41. Celebrate wins, big or small. Taking the time to celebrate your achievements keeps you motivated and focused on the positive. Whether it’s landing a new client, launching a product, or simply making it through a tough week, recognize your efforts!
42. Prioritize self-care. Running a business can be demanding, and it’s easy to burn out if you’re not careful. If you want to keep up the energy and inspiration to keep going, you’ve got to prioritize self-care. If nursing has taught you anything, it should be that you can’t pour from an empty cup — taking care of yourself is essential to sustaining your success in every aspect of your life.
43. Hire help and delegate tasks when needed. You can’t do it all, and THAT’S OKAY. Learn to delegate tasks that aren’t the best use of your time so you can focus on what you do best! Delegating allows you to scale your business more effectively and prevent burnout.
44. Invest in your business. Don’t hesitate to invest in the tools, resources, and technology that will propel your business forward. Things like upgrading your software, improving your website, or purchasing equipment can save you time, reduce manual work, and sustain your long-term success. Putting money back into your business is a smart move that can lead to huge returns and sustainable growth.
45. Consistency builds credibility and trust. Make sure your voice, messaging, and branding are uniform across alllll platforms. Regularly update your content, engage with your audience, and keep up with communication — it’s what keeps your business top of mind.
46. Embrace change. The business landscape evolves quickly. Be flexible and open to adapting your strategies and approaches. Embracing change allows you to stay relevant, innovate, and keep moving forward in an ever-changing landscape.
47. Set boundaries. Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life is KEY to preventing burnout. It’s easy to let your business consume all your time, but maintaining balance is a must for long-term success. Set boundaries that protect your time and energy, and stick to them.
48. Develop a clear vision. A clear vision for your business gives you direction and purpose. It’s what keeps you focused on your long-term goals, even when the going gets tough. Your vision should guide your decisions, inspire your actions, and remind you why you started in the first place.
49. Experiment with microchanges. You don’t always need to make massive shifts to see improvement. Sometimes, small, incremental changes can lead to the big results you want while reducing risk and making it easier to adapt. Test out microchanges in your processes, offerings, or strategies and see how they impact your business.
50. Infuse playfulness and joy into your work. Business doesn’t have to be all serious, all. the. time. Injecting fun and creativity into your work can spark innovation and keep things fresh! Adding a playful touch to your branding, content, or even client interactions can lead to unexpected breakthroughs and a more enjoyable business experience for all.
51. Practice radical transparency. Being open and honest about your business processes, successes, and even failures can build deep trust with your clients and team. Transparency shows authenticity and integrity, setting you apart in a crowded market. Don’t be afraid to share the behind-the-scenes — it’s what makes you human.
52. Passion isn’t everything. While following your passion can be motivating, it’s not the only ingredient for success. There will be parts of your journey that you don’t love, and that’s okay. Focus on building a business that aligns with your strengths, values, and market demand, even if it means doing things that don’t always light you up.
And There You Have It — 52 Lessons I Learned During My First Year in Business.
It’s been a wild ride, full of unexpected twists, late nights, and moments of doubt. But every challenge has been a chance to learn, grow, and build something that I’m truly proud of.
Looking back, I can see how my journey as a nurse prepared me for this new chapter — teaching me resilience, adaptability, and the power of persistence. The same skills that got me through those tough shifts on the floor have helped me navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
I’m not done learning — far from it.
There’s still so much ahead, and I’m excited to keep pushing forward, making mistakes, and figuring it all out as I go.
If you’re on a similar path, I hope these lessons inspire you to keep going, keep experimenting, and keep believing in what you’re building. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned for sure, it’s that the journey is just as important as the destination.
Here’s to year TWO and all the lessons it will bring! 🥳