Growth Made Easier for Women Solopreneurs

Hi Solo Star! For some unknown reason, I connected being my own boss with being nothing but a struggle. I mean everything. I made everything a struggle. And, I don't really know how I connected these two things – having a business and it being nothing but a struggle – but somewhere I did. So, today, I want to talk about that, and share with you what I discovered. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/3-ugly-negative-beliefs-that-reinforced-my-struggle.

Hi Solo Star! One thing I know for sure is that sometimes our progress as a solopreneur can be subtle, and it's not always reflected in immediate financial success or personal feelings. So, today, I want to talk about some signs that you may be farther along in your business than you realize. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/8-signs-youre-farther-along-in-your-solo-business-than-you-realize.

Hey there, Solo Star! There is a real ebb and flow to progress, and when you have the time and the persistence to figure out what that ebb and flow is for you, you're golden. And, oddly enough, I learned this from one source. And, that one source I learned this from is through my work and ending up feeling exhausted. Here is the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/5-lessons-i-learned-from-working-way-too-much.

Welcome, Solo Star. Have you ever felt kind of a weird feeling when you're about to try something new? Maybe it's launching that offer, showing up consistently online, or even reaching out to someone for help—and the thought pops up almost automatically: “I can't do that.” It feels harmless. Maybe even true. But this one sentence holds way more power over your solo business than you may realize. Today, we're talking about what really sits behind those four words—and what to do if they've been keeping you stuck. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/the-power-behind-this-one-sentence.

Hey there, Solo Star. Today's topic might hit closer to home than you expect. I want to talk about confidence and self-esteem—not in the morning-affirmation kind of way, but in the real way. The kind of confidence that helps you speak clearly about what you offer, price your services without shrinking, and show up consistently—especially when no one is clapping for you yet. If you've ever thought, “I should feel better about myself by now,” or “Why do I keep second-guessing everything?”—you're not alone. In fact, confidence and self-esteem are two of the most common inner struggles I hear about from women solopreneurs. And they are often confused for each other—yet they show up differently and need different support. So today, I'm breaking down 3 things you really need to know about confidence and self-esteem, especially if you're growing a solo business. Let's make this simple and practical, so you leave with clarity—and a few tools you can actually use. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/3-things-you-should-know-about-confidence-and-self-esteem.

Today, we're talking about something that seems harmless on the surface but is quietly draining your energy, your focus, and your potential—doing all the small stuff on your own. I know you're capable. You've figured out how to juggle a dozen different tasks every day. But if you're honest, deep down you know something's not working. You're stuck in the busy work, and the big dreams you started this solo business for keep getting pushed to the back burner. This episode is your wake-up call and your invitation to stop trying to do it all—and start doing what actually grows your business. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/why-doing-small-stuff-on-your-own-hurts-the-big-picture-for-success.

Are you thinking about starting your own business? Do you have a deep desire to do your own thing, have freedom and time to do what you want? Are you excited about having unlimited earning power? Well, there are many women who have accomplished that, and I wanted to share with you a few things they learned along the way. Here is the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/5-top-tips-to-make-it-as-a-woman-solopreneur.

Hey there, beautiful solopreneurs. Today, we're digging into something so many women silently struggle with: Survival Mode. You know what I'm talking about—those days (or weeks… or years) where you're doing everything just to stay afloat. You're constantly reacting, constantly managing, and constantly exhausted. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. I've been there too. And the hardest part? You don't even realize it's become your norm. That's why today's episode is all about showing you why survival mode keeps you stuck—and more importantly, how to break free from it so your business can grow with clarity and confidence. Here is the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/why-survival-mode-keeps-you-stuck.

Have you ever felt like no matter how hard you work or how much you earn, money still feels heavy? Like it's always just out of reach—or worse, a problem instead of a solution? If you've ever avoided checking your bank account or felt guilty about charging what you're worth, you're not alone. Today, we're talking about something real and personal—your relationship with money. Because money isn't just about dollars and cents—it's deeply emotional, and for many women solopreneurs, it's tangled up with shame, fear, and old stories we never even realized we were carrying. This episode might just be the mindset shift you didn't know you needed. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/your-relationship-with-money-matters.

Often, us women solopreneurs get in a negative loop, and one that's really hard to break. So, the is: you know you need to make a decision, you instantly feel insecure, and it tears down your confidence. That's the "Insecure Loope", and it's keeping you stuck. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/what-tears-down-your-confidence.

I really freaked out the other day when I realized that I was in the middle of some sort of meltdown, and it went on for a couple of days. After it was over, I was exhausted. So, what was it that I experienced? That's our topic today. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/signs-youre-have-a-breakthrough.

If you're ever found yourself holding back because you don't want to feel pain, disappointment, or rejection, this episode is for you. We're going to explore what this fear really means, what causes it, and how you can start to overcome it. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/how-the-fear-of-being-hurt-can-hold-you-back.

Something that's been really bothering me lately is this idea that we can feel let down after we finally do what it is we want to do. This has happened to me, and today, I want to shed some light on why it's that way. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/why-you-feel-bad-after-doing-something-wonderful.

Not having someone to turn to when you're a solopreneur can really hurt sometimes. So, I thought I'd offer some advice if you're in this boat, and, a few ideas for what you can do about it.  Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/what-to-do-if-you-lack-support-as-a-solopreneur.

Today, let's talk about why growth isn't easy. So, if you're someone who's really wondering why you feel like you're walking in mud, not sleeping at night, maybe eating to many chips and other treats and you don't know why, today's for you. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/why-growth-isnt-easy.

I've been a solopreneur forever. By this I mean, I think, act, and process like someone who must do their own thing, have the freedom to think and act as they please, and take the journey of making my passion my life's work. But, there's challenges to going this route, and that's our topic today. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/6-tricky-challenges-that-happen-daily-for-solopreneurs.

I love the title for today's episode. To me, it says it all. "Just Admit It" is what I would want to say to you if I was doing a live conference, and during the break you asked me how you can move forward, faster.  Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/just-admit-it.

Some of us think, some of us worry, and some of us keep obsessing. You probably know what I mean. You need to accomplish something, and you're not sure where to begin, so you'll think things over. But, some of you go beyond thinking, and go to worrying, or flat out obsessing about things. And, that's what we're talking about in this episode. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/why-youre-caught-in-the-worry-cycle.

You know what's hard? It's hard to work every day, and feel like no one is noticing you. You might be posting on social media, or doing videos on YouTube, or maybe you're putting out a weekly podcast. And after all that, no one is paying attention to your work.  Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/how-to-keep-putting-your-work-out-there-when-no-one-is-noticing-you.

Every day you put stuff out, you write an article, record a podcast episode, coach a client, or post on social media about an upcoming conference you're putting on. And, that's a lot. So, you'll want to be sure that what you're putting out there is elevating your presence online and helping you connect with your customers and clients. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/3-ways-to-elevate-your-presence-online.

I'm pretty excited about this one, but I've got to tell you that today's episode is not about your being authentic, or doing success on your own terms, or your qualities. Today's episode is how to honor your solo life. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/4-ways-to-honor-your-solo-life.

I've looked over my eating, my exercise, the amount of time I work, all of that. And, after looking it over, I realized that for me, I'm pretty good with my habits. In other words, my habits keep the train running, if you will. So today, I want to chat about habits – my take on it anyway – and hopefully help you make more progress with fun along the way. Here is the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/3-reasons-why-habits-are-hard-to-break-and-what-to-do-about-it.

I always feel sort of pushy when I keep harping on about the importance of acceptance, rather self-acceptance. In our world as a solopreneur you must know who you are, and live your life as you are, because I believe that's what shows up in your work, and it's what you bring to the world, and that is everything! Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/4-key-reasons-why-self-acceptance-is-important.

Every time I hit a wall. Every time I become depleted. Every time I get totally burnout, after it's over, I'll end up say the same thing. I'll say, “Well, I'll never let that happen again.” And, does it happen again, yes, yes is does. Until I finally figured out what to watch for, and do something about it before things get hairy. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/7-sneaky-pressures-causing-solo-burnout.

I am a solopreneur, and I work exclusively with women solopreneurs, so I know what working for yourself – and working from home – is really like. So, this episode is going to really put the spotlight on some key mistakes we're making, and hopefully stop doing.  Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/why-you're-not-meeting-your-solo-goals.

If you work for yourself, you know what it's like to do everything by yourself. I know what's that like, and most – if not all – solopreneurs start their solo business by doing everything until income starts coming in, and I want to offer you some easy ideas on how you can keep moving forward if you're working completely solo. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/4-ways-to-keep-moving-forward-in-your-solo-business.

Are there really negative beliefs that can ruin everything? Yes, yes there is. By everything I'm talking about your peace of mind, whether you grow or not, many missed opportunities, and your self-esteem getting knocked around every, single, day.  Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/6-negative-beliefs-that-will-ruin-everything.

Are you looking for an answer to something you're not quite sure what the question is? Well, if you're a solopreneur, and you have some unknown, or unseen things magically keeping you stuck, I have some thoughts on what you might be dealing with. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/3-hidden-blocks-that-get-in-your-way.

It's true. We all want to grow our solo business, we believe in what we do, we want to make a difference, and be successful, but there's seems to be a glitch in the system, and I thought I'd bring that up today. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/3-blocks-to-doing-sales-as-a-solopreneur.

We live in a time when so many people really want to live a life that feels prosperous, and genuine, and one that offers them freedom, more time with family, and, of course, financial security. And, if that's something you've thought about, too, in today's episode, I talk about 4 steps to having a solo business.  Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/4-steps-to-starting-a-solo-business.

Are you someone who gives up too soon? And, here's what I mean by that. Do you avoid doing something, then finally do it, then can't wait for something to happen? If that's you, this episode might help. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/why-we-give-up-too-soon.

Do you know what's important to you? Do you know how important it is that you know what's important to you? Well, it's really important. In fact, it can mean the difference between fully enjoying your life, or feeling like you're just getting by. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/not-knowing-whats-important-to-you-will-mess-things-up.

Some of you make money easily. Others of you struggle to make money. And, if you're in the “I struggle to make money” camp, you are not alone. So, in today's episode, I hope to lay out a few things you can focus on to set sort of a foundation you can work from. Now, these are pretty general, but there's still good steps. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/5-things-solopreneurs-must-focus-on-to-make-money

I know from personal experience that nothing can feel as horrible then when you know for a fact that you are holding yourself back. You're holding yourself back from solo success, your financial success, having freedom, and any other way personal to you, you're holding yourself back. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/mastering-personal-health-for-busy-women-solopreneurs.

What would you list as your biggest personal problem – or problems – that you're facing as a woman solopreneur? Let's talk about that, and see how to change it. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/the-biggest-personal-problems-for-women-solopreneurs.

Personal power is about you, and how you present yourself, it's your level of confidence, and it's about you feeling strong and confident internally. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/3-things-we-do-that-can-diminish-our-personal-power.

Two things about most solopreneurs: First, they struggle – to some degree – with fear. That can be fear of failure, and for some, it can be fear of success. And, second, many solopreneurs report that – in the beginning – they have trouble getting traction, and getting the business up and running, which is why most businesses fail. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/dont-let-fear-stop-you.

Have you ever wondered why – when you need pick a font or a color, or decide which platform to use, and any of the many other decisions you need to make as a business owner – you need some time to think things over, maybe do a little research, or think it'd be best to check in and ask what people in your Facebook group thinks you should do, and another person just has no time or patience to do all that, and they just start on the project? Well, today, it's all about the Action Types. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/discover-the-4-personality-action-types-that-drive-success.

Early this morning, everything started getting weird. No really, crazy weird. And, this weirdness has been going on – and amping up for at least a week now. Am I worried about it? No. Do I think it's happening for a reason? Yes, yes I do. So, if you're experiencing something like this, too, I want to explain why that might be happening. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/why-things-are-amping-up-in-a-weird-way.

Saving time is an art form, and I believe we all have our own way of working, and one time-saver might work for me, but that doesn't mean it would work for you. So today, I thought I'd bring up the most common, quick and simple ideas that we all can use to save time because – as you know – us women solopreneurs are busy people for sure. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/simple-ways-to-save-time.

Have you ever had your inner voice say these things to you, “You're stupid, you're fat, nobody likes you, you're worthless”? These messages are coming from your inner critic, and today, we're going to talk about how that inner critic plays a significate role in your life. Here is the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/how-to-overcome-low-self-esteem.

I'm hoping I can make today's chat quick, and easy to understand, and, I want to begin by asking you this question, “Do you trust yourself?” Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/signs-you-dont-trust-yourself.

All my time, energy, and effort goes into helping women solopreneurs get what they want, and to live their life at their full potential. So, today's topic is my take on some relevant issues for moving forward and doing what you want. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/how-to-instantly-move-forward-to-do-what-you-want-to-do.

I wish I wasn't so passionate, informed, and knowledgeable about today's topic, but I am. And, today's topic is about struggle. That's inner struggle, mental struggle, or a knee-jerk kind of struggle, all of it. I know struggle inside and out, and claim to have been almost (unknowingly) addicted to it. And, I thought today would be a great time to chat about it. Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/why-struggle-keeps-us-stuck.  

I don't like using this word, but it's the right word for this episode, so I'll just say it. Anxiety. Today is about how we can have an anxious mind, and how it affects our work, or as I know from personal experience, it has definitely affected my work.  Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/the-real-bully-pushing-you-around.  

When I made the pivot from working with corporate clients to working with women solopreneurs, my approach to my visibility needed to change. It took some time to make it happen, but it's getting easier to do as time goes on.  Here's the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/visibility-mistakes-and-what-to-do-about-it.

There was a time that I struggled with procrastination. And, it wasn't until I got past that period, and started completing my projects on time, that I recognized a pattern. I realized that there were 4 reasons for my procrastination and I want to share them with you now. Here is the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/4-personal-reasons-we-procrastinate

If we constantly judge and criticize our self for some sort of inadequacy or mistake we've made, we're lacking the self-compassion we need to give to our self to be kind and understanding when we're dealing with our ups and downs.  Here is the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/what-to-do-if-the-voice-in-your-head-is-constantly-judging-you

Many of us are really trying to make our solo business a success, but, most of the time things can feel we're not getting anywhere, and our to-do list isn't getting any shorter. I bet you've had this happen to you, too, right? Well, let's talk about that, and see if we can find a way to stay on track and reach our goals. Here is the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/how-to-keep-going-when-you-don't-see-results

I love the book I'm reading right now. And, actually, this is the second time I'm reading it because it has helped me solve some really big things in my life. And, then I got to thinking…why don't I put together a list of my top book recommendations and share them with you. So, that's what we going to do today!  Here is the link to this episode on Sandra's website if you'd like to check it out: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/top-books-for-solo-success  

I am reminded – at random times – how my thinking steers me in the wrong direction. And, every time it happens, I end up questioning myself by wondering am I good enough, can I really do what it is I want to? Well, if you've had this type of thinking too, I think you'll enjoy today chat. Get full show notes plus more here: https://sandrasmith.com/podcast-episode/minimizing-successes-and-magnifying-failures