Building a Side Business: What You Need to Know Before You Start

The Dream vs. The Reality of a Side Business

Starting a side business sounds exciting—flexibility, extra income, and the possibility of turning it into something bigger. But what no one tells you is how hard it actually is.

For the past year, I’ve been building my ghostwriting business while juggling consulting work, family responsibilities, and personal growth. And here’s what I’ve learned:

💼 It’s not just about working hard, but working smart.
Most people think if they work longer hours, they’ll succeed. But without the right focus, effort alone won’t take you far.

⏳ Time is your biggest bottleneck.
You can’t add more hours to your day, but you can choose what to prioritize. If you don’t, your side business will take over your life—or remain stagnant.

📉 There will be slow months.
Some weeks, you’ll feel unstoppable. Other weeks, you’ll wonder if it’s even worth it. This is normal.

🚀 Success isn’t overnight—it compounds over time.
Your business isn’t built in a single big win. It’s built through consistency, small improvements, and relentless execution.

📌 The Hard Truths No One Tells You

✅ You won’t feel ready—start anyway.
Waiting for the "perfect" time is just an excuse. Clarity comes from taking action.

✅ Passive income is not really passive.
Everything requires effort—especially at the start. Even automated systems need maintenance.

✅ Your mindset matters more than your skills.
Self-doubt, fear, and inconsistency kill more dreams than lack of talent.

✅ Selling is a skill you must develop.
If you’re not actively marketing, your business won’t grow. You have to learn how to position and sell your product/service or yourself.

✅ You need a support system.
Trying to do everything alone is a mistake. Find a mentor, join a community, or hire help when possible.

📌 Today’s Atomic Essay

🏆 Wins from Yesterday

✅ Refined my niche, bio, and outreach strategy.
✅ Hit the gym—completed aerobic, anaerobic cardio, and strength training.
✅ Published my daily atomic essay and writing my daily reflections now.

📅 Plans for Today

📍 Prioritize income-generating tasks—cold outreach, follow-ups, and proposals.
📍 Continue working on my educational email course.
📍 Get some deep work done and limit distractions.

🙏 What I’m Grateful For

✨ The ability to create something of my own.
✨ The lessons learned through trial and error.
✨ A supportive family and network.

💬 Your Turn

What’s been the hardest part of building(or planning) your side business?

📩 Reply to this email or comment below—I’d love to hear your experience!

🚀 Want to Join the Writing Journey?

✍️ Want to start writing daily? Join Start Writing Online (free email course) or the Ship 30 for 30 writing challenge.

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