10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Own Business

These past few months have taught me so much, and I'd love to pass on 10 insights that might make your own journey a little easier.

1) You Don't Need to Have It All Figured Out

When I first started, I thought I needed a fully formed plan, perfect branding, and every detail mapped out. The truth? You learn by doing. Your first version of your business doesn't have to be your final one. You're allowed to pivot, experiment, and reinvent as you go. Starting small and adapting along the way is far more valuable than waiting until everything feels "ready."

2) Start Where You Are, With What You Have

You don't need a fancy website, a huge budget, or thousands of followers to begin. Use free tools, test ideas, and build as you grow. Progress matters more than perfection.

3) Social Media Isn't the Whole Story

It's tempting to believe you need to go viral to succeed, but for most freelancers and small businesses, you don't. Focus on genuine connections with the right audience rather than chasing trends and algorithms. Slow, intentional growth lasts longer.

4) It's Okay to Wear All the Hats (For Now)

When you're starting out, you'll probably handle everything: marketing, admin, finances, content and client work. It IS overwhelming, but... it's temporary. Learning these roles early helps you understand your business better and eventually figure out what's worth outsourcing.

5) Boundaries Are Your Best Friend

In the beginning, it's easy to say yes to every request and reply to emails at midnight. But burnout happens fast. Protect your time, set clear boundaries with clients, and create a work schedule that fits YOUR life. Isn't that why you decided to go your own, in the first place?

6) Networking Doesn't Have to Be Scary

I used to think networking meant cold calls and awkward introductions. In reality, it's often as simple as connecting with other local business owners, showing up online, or joining community groups. Building relationships (not pitching!)  has opened more doors for me as a freelancer in a small town like Portlaoise.

7) You'll Doubt Yourself (More Than Once)

Starting out, imposter syndrome hit me hard and I still have it! I question my skills, my pricing, whether I was making the right decisions. It can be defeating but having a mentor who reassured me I was competent made a huge difference. Their confidence in me reminded me that I didn't have to feel ready to take action, I just had to start. Showing up, even when I doubt myself, is helping me build confidence.

8) Small Wins Are Still Wins

Your first client, your first website launch, your first positive testimonial, these matter. Celebrate them! It helps to note these dates and achievements somewhere, so you can look back and celebrate them again in the future. They keep you motivated on the tougher days and remind you how far you've already come.

9) Community Over Competition

When I first started, I thought I had to "stand out" from everyone else doing similar work. But I've learned that collaboration beats competition. Sharing tips, supporting others, and learning together has been invaluable and it makes running a business far less lonely.

10) Your Path Won't Look Like Anyone Else's

It's easy to compare yourself to freelancers who seem "further ahead," but everyone's journey is different. Some grow fast, others build slowly and intentionally. Both are valid. Focus on creating a business that works for your life, not someone else's version of success.

Final Thought

Running a small business or starting out as a freelancer isn't easy, especially if like me you're trying to balance building a business with looking after little ones and keeping everything else afloat. If you're on a similar path, I'd love to connect! Whether it's to share experiences, swap tips, or just have a coffee and chat about the ups and downs of figuring this all out.