Running a business isn’t easy—it’s filled with doubt, stress, sleepless nights, and sometimes the urge to quit. I’ve been there, and I almost gave up. Today, I want to talk to those of you feeling stuck in your business, overwhelmed, or ready to throw in the towel. I'm here to share my story and, more importantly, the three things that saved my business and kept me going.
For those of you wanting more in-depth, one-on-one coaching, be sure to check out the link below for more info. I also recommend SESW Softwash 101 class if you're looking to sharpen your skills in the pressure washing industry.
Lesson 1: Accept the Reality of Business Ownership
When you run your own business, you quickly realize it’s not like a 9-to-5 where you get paid just for showing up. You get paid based on what you produce. Running your own business is a journey of doubt and stress, but it’s part of the process.
It’s not supposed to be easy—if it were, everyone would be doing it. The truth is, successful business owners face moments of self-doubt. But it’s how you respond to those tough times that defines where you end up. You’re on the right path just by trying to improve, and as hard as it is, you have to keep moving forward.
Lesson 2: Embrace the Grind
Success is a long game, and it’s not about how hard you think you're working—it’s about the sheer volume of effort you're willing to put in. The grind isn’t glamorous, but it's essential. Even when the results aren’t there yet, you must push through.
Think of it like learning an instrument. You don’t get good by playing one song perfectly—you get good by playing hundreds of songs, making mistakes, and learning as you go. It's the repetition, the grind, and the willingness to keep going despite setbacks that will turn you into a master.
Lesson 3: Take Responsibility for Your Success
The biggest shift for most business owners comes when they fully accept that their success or failure is entirely in their hands. It’s easy to blame circumstances, but no one is going to do the work for you.
Are you really doing everything in your power to make your business work? The difference between being good and being great is the effort you put in. Don’t wait for something magical to happen—get out there and make it happen for yourself.
My Breaking Point
There was a time when I found myself burning out. I was working a full-time job during the day and pressure washing gas stations and restaurants at night. My employees weren’t cutting it, so I had to let them go, which left me doing everything on my own—while balancing family life with a newborn at home.
I was running ads to hire help, but everyone I trained flaked out, showed up drunk, or simply wasn’t a fit. After weeks of grueling work with no progress, I was ready to quit.
But something inside me wouldn’t let me. I hadn’t given it my all yet. So, I kept pushing, kept searching, and finally found the right person. Shortly after, we landed a $95,000 contract with a gas station chain—a contract that changed the game for my business.
If I had quit when things got tough, I wouldn’t have that contract today, and I wouldn’t be here sharing my story with you.
Conclusion: Keep Pushing
When you feel like you’re at your lowest point, remember that it’s part of the journey. It’s not the end. The challenges you’re facing today are just hurdles, not roadblocks. Keep working, keep grinding, and know that your breakthrough moment could be just around the corner.
Don’t give up on your dreams—your success is within reach.
Call to Action:
If you're struggling and need guidance, check out SESW Softwash 101 class to sharpen your skills and learn new strategies. And for one-on-one coaching, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your breakthrough is closer than you think.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes. Every business owner faces unique challenges, and success requires persistence and adaptability.
