The 5 Hard Truths No One Tells You About Running a Business
Mar 19, 2025Episode Summary
Starting a business is exciting—but let’s be real, it’s also incredibly hard. No one tells you about the real struggles of entrepreneurship until you're deep in the trenches, trying to keep your business afloat. In this episode of Hobby to Profitability, Jacqueline Green shares the five hardest truths about running a business, plus practical tips on how to overcome them.
Subscribe on Your Favorite Platform
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- You’ll Work Harder Than Ever
Most people start a business seeking freedom—but in reality, you’ll likely work twice as hard as you did at your 9-to-5 job. Success comes from discipline, systems, and scalable strategies that allow you to eventually step back.
- No One Cares About Your Business As Much As You Do
Your family, friends, and even employees may be supportive, but they won’t feel the same weight of responsibility that you do. Learn to separate emotions from decision-making so you can build a sustainable company without burning out.
- The Money Doesn’t Come as Fast as You Expect
You might hear success stories about businesses skyrocketing overnight, but for most entrepreneurs, profitability takes time. Tracking cash flow, knowing your numbers, and focusing on long-term growth will help you stay in the game.
- Entrepreneurship Can Be Lonely
It’s easy to feel isolated when your closest friends and family don’t understand the daily struggles of running a business. Find your support system—whether through networking groups, masterminds, or a business coach—to keep yourself motivated and connected.
- Mindset Matters More Than Strategy
No strategy will save a business if the owner doesn’t believe in its potential. Your mindset affects decision-making, resilience, and the ability to push through tough times. Work on shifting from a worker’s mentality to an owner’s mentality and focus on growth, not just daily tasks.
Resources & Links Mentioned
Marketing Momentum Workshop – Need help building a real business strategy? Let’s create a clear, scalable marketing plan that works for you. Learn more here.
Book Recommendation: Who Not How – The game-changing mindset shift for business owners.
Final Thoughts
Starting and running a business isn’t easy, but understanding these hard truths will help you avoid burnout, plan for growth, and stay resilient. Ask yourself:
- Which of these five truths resonated with you most?
- What’s one small step you can take this week to shift from worker to CEO?
Need guidance on your marketing strategy? Book a free Marketing Health Check and let’s build a business that works for you!
Don’t forget to subscribe to Hobby to Profitability on your favorite platform so you never miss an episode!
Episode Timestamp Breakdown
[00:00] Introduction: The myths of entrepreneurship
[02:17] Hard Truth #1: You’ll work harder than any other job
[04:50] Hard Truth #2: No one cares about your business as much as you do
[09:00] Hard Truth #3: The money doesn’t come as fast as you expect
[13:42] Hard Truth #4: Entrepreneurship can be lonely
[15:44] Hard Truth #5: Mindset matters more than strategy
[18:00] How to shift your mindset from worker to CEO
[19:35] Action step: What to do next
Sign Up for Our Monthly Newsletter
Get helpful career, business, and design tips right in your inbox each month.
At Behind the Design, we are committed to building a stronger design community by reimagining education, training, and support for interior designers. Through our various software training options, educational articles covering everything from leadership to marketing, and soon Continuing educational courses, we are committed to helping you. Join our newsletter to get the latest education and training updates.