5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Business
Starting your own business is one of the most exhilarating, empowering things you can do. But it can also one of the most confronting. If I could go back and sit down with myself before I launched Kate Lodge Co., I’d grab a strong (decafe) coffee, take a deep breath, and remind myself of these five truths.
1. Your mindset is everything.
I used to think business success was all about strategy. But actually, mindset will make or break you. Doubt, imposter syndrome, perfectionism aren’t just roadblocks, they’re the whole damn terrain when you're just starting out. Learning to navigate my inner world, trust my voice, and back myself has been the biggest game-changer. Your belief in yourself is your most valuable asset. And don’t get me wrong - I am still learning and practicing this every.single.day. Imposter syndrome is a mutha-fu*@er!
2. You don’t need to do it all at once.
I burned out big time in 2019 trying to do everything, be everywhere, for everyone, and do allllllll the things. There’s so much noise out there telling you to have the perfect brand, email funnel, podcast, website, and social presence from day one. Truth is, you build a business one step at a time. Start with what matters most, and let the rest unfold. Consistency > urgency. And sure, when you are ready to create your brand and website - I’ll be here waiting and ready for you sister!
3. Your brand is not just your logo.
This one’s personal. I spent years in design and strategy before I started my own business back in 2019 (yep, after the ‘burnout’), and still I fell into the trap of obsessing over visuals before getting clear on my message. A magnetic brand starts with being crystal clear on who you are, what you stand for, who you serve, and why it matters. The visuals come after that. When the brand feels like you, that’s when everything clicks. And I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but I actually don’t have a crafted ‘logo’ right now… I’m focusing more on my message and the way I want people to feel when they interact with my brand vibe.
4. You don’t need to wait until you’re "ready."
The idea of being "ready" is a myth. I see it in my clients all the time and I’ve lived it too (heck, I’m living it right now matey!). You become ready by showing up. By taking the first step. By letting your imperfect first version exist, knowing that evolution is part of the process. Your future self is waiting on the other side of that action you’re putting off. Confidence is like putting in reps at the gym… it builds like a muscle.
5. Find your people.
Building a business can feel lonely, especially if you’re shifting out of a structured job or doing something different from the people around you. Find your community. Surround yourself with expanders and people who believe in what you're building, who remind you of your why, and who reflect back your brilliance when you forget. My business changed the moment I stopped trying to do it all alone. And my gosh, I honestly have some of the most amazing people in my circle now (if you’re reading this, you know who you are - so thank you!) and I am so bloody grateful.
Final Thoughts
If you're on the edge of something new, or you feel like you’re fumbling your way through the early stages, please know you’re not alone. Every founder and solopreneur I know has walked through doubt, overthinking, and growing pains. And if you're looking for a sign to keep going? This is it.
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start.
Big love,
Kate