Did You Build a Business You Hate?

Ever wake up and wonder how you got where you are…and whether or not you even want to be there?

You've built this impressive business, hitting those revenue goals, building a team, and making it all happen. On paper, you're living the dream. 

But between you and me, something's off, isn't it?

Maybe you've been pushing through, grinding it out, doing what you thought you "should" do to be successful. And hey, it worked!

But at what cost? 

If you're feeling more drained than inspired by your business, it might be time for a change. 

Here are a few of the tell-tale signs that you've built a business you hate (ouch, I know) and how we can turn this ship around.

1: The Sunday Scaries Happen Every Day

Remember when you used to be excited about Mondays? If diving into your business day fills you with dread rather than enthusiasm, it's a red flag. 

Sure, not every day as an entrepreneur is going to feel like a holiday. Getting into the groove can definitely feel like getting into the grind sometimes. But, when you’ve built a business you love that plays around your unique strengths, skills, and values, you’re going to find yourself motivated to keep moving forward. If you roll out of bed every morning dreading your to-do list, that’s a solid sign that you’re unaligned.

2: You're Playing a Role, Not Being Yourself

Do you feel like you're constantly wearing a mask, trying to fit into some idea of what a "successful entrepreneur" should be? That's not only exhausting and unsustainable, but it's also a big sign that you're not in alignment with your purpose. Sometimes, “fake it til you make it” can be an appropriate strategy. But, more often than not, trying to hide your strengths and differences won’t help you succeed. 

3: Your Wins Feel Empty

Hitting big goals should feel amazing. If your successes leave you feeling "meh" instead of "woo-hoo!" something's misaligned. Are you hitting revenue goals at the expense of your freedom? Maybe your goals aren’t aligned with your core values. 

4: You're Always Eyeing the Exit

Are you constantly daydreaming about selling your business or starting something completely different? Your intuition might be trying to tell you something. As a neurodivergent entrepreneur, I completely understand the compulsion to collect domain names for a thousand possible future business ventures. But if you aren’t motivated to lean into the business you’re currently running, there may be a reason.

But I Can't Just Walk Away... Can I?

I get it. You've got employees, contractors, and clients who depend on you. The idea of pivoting feels selfish, even impossible. 

But here's the truth: continuing to run a business that doesn't align with your values and strengths isn't just hurting you — it's limiting the potential of everyone involved.

So how do we pivot without burning it all down?

So, what do we do? While it may seem like there's no way out, there are things you can do to begin re-aligning. Let's take a look. 

1. Rediscover YOU

What are your unique strengths, values, and purpose? What lights you up? What are you naturally fantastic at? I call this your YouVP. If you’ve lost sight of all of the wonderful things that make you, well, YOU, it might be time for some re-discovery.

2. Look for Alignment Opportunities

Often, there are ways to shift your current business model to better align with your YouVP without starting from scratch. Maybe it's changing your target market, adjusting your offerings, or reimagining your role within the company.

3. Communicate Openly

Your team might surprise you. When you share your vision for a more aligned business, many will likely be excited to come along for the ride. Open, honest communication can turn potential resistance into enthusiastic support.

4. Gradual Transition

Rome wasn't built in a day, and your pivot doesn't have to happen overnight. Create a phased plan that allows for a smooth transition, both for you and for those who depend on your business.

5. Lean into What Makes You Different on Purpose

Your unique perspective, skills, and values are your superpower. It can be hard to remember this when you’re a neurodivergent female entrepreneur trying to build a business the way everyone else does it. By embracing what makes you different, you'll not only create a business you love but also stand out in your industry in a way that attracts your ideal clients and opportunities.

And One Last Thing

You've already proven you can build a successful business. You're not starting from scratch. All you must do here is simply imagine what you could achieve if your business were perfectly aligned with who you really are. 

And it's not just possible—it's necessary—for your well-being, for your continued success, and for the positive impact you can make in the world.

Ready to rediscover your spark and build a business that lights you up? Let's chat. As a leadership coach specializing in helping women like you pivot into alignment, I'd love to explore how we can transform your successful but draining business into one that energizes and fulfills you.

Remember, embracing what makes you different in business is more than a nice idea — it's the key to long-term success and fulfillment. Your next chapter is waiting to be written, and it will be your best one yet. Let's write it together.