The Key to Growth - focusing on what actually matters

As a solo business owner, you have to do everything… or so it seems.

One moment, you’re running client calls. The next, you’re stressing about social media, tweaking your website, or drowning in admin. Are these things helping you grow or are they drowning you?  

So how do you know what’s worth your time and what’s just a distraction?

1. Are you doing it because it works - or because someone said you should?

Many business owners fall into the trap of doing things because they think they have to.

Someone once told you, "You need to be on Instagram!" - so now you’re spending hours trying to create posts… but your ideal client doesn’t even use Instagram.

Or maybe another business owner said, "You really need to have a sleek website." But if your clients are coming from referrals or LinkedIn, is it the best use of your time?

💡 Identify where your clients actually come from. Double down on those channels and let go of what’s not working.

2. Learn to filter opinions & advice

Not all advice is created equal. Other business owners can empathise with you, but that doesn’t mean they truly understand your unique situation.

When receiving advice, categorise it into:

✅ Applicable advice: Comes from experts who are qualified or know your industry and goals.

⚖️ Nice to know: Insights that may be useful later but aren’t urgent.

❌ Not helpful: Well-meaning but irrelevant input that causes stress or confusion.

By funnelling advice into these categories, you protect your time, reduce stress, and stay focused on your own path.

3. Focus on What Moves the Needle

Many business owners stay stuck because they spend their time on the wrong things. Instead of growing their business, they’re:

– Fixating on small tasks that don’t drive revenue

– Overcomplicating systems and processes

– Trying to be everywhere, instead of being where it matters most

💡 Each week, ask yourself: What’s actually moving me closer to my goals? If a task isn’t making a difference, it’s time to rethink it.

4. Set boundaries & protect your time

One of the biggest challenges solo business owners face is a lack of time. But often, it’s not just about how much time you have - it’s about how you’re using it.

📌 Set clear work hours - and protect them

📌 Time-block high-value tasks - focus on what actually grows your business

📌 Drop the “busy work” - if it’s not leading to growth, let it go

Growth Requires Focus

If you’re feeling stuck, exhausted, and overwhelmed, it’s time to step back and reassess. The next level of your business doesn’t come from doing more - it comes from focusing on what actually matters.

If you’d like to organise time to understand this more and how a business coach could support you in achieving your goals. Book in a free 30-minute introduction to coaching meeting here.