Four Ways to Get Started, Without Losing Your Sh*t

Someone gave me a piece of advice a long time ago that has stuck with me ever since, and it applies to so many things. During the planning of my wedding (my husband and I just celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary this past summer), I was having a meltdown about the slide show playing. Someone pulled me aside and said, “Erin, you are the ONLY person who will know if something doesn’t go right or isn’t perfect. No one else has any idea what is supposed to happen, they for sure have no idea what everything is supposed to look like, and they haven’t been with you during any of the planning stages.” 

That was some of the best advice I’d ever received because they were right. I still remind myself of that to this day when it comes to business or whatever I’m working on. 

Whether you’re starting a business, creating a new habit, or wanting to try something new, it’s sometimes hard to know exactly where to start. It can feel so overwhelming. Most of us (hi, me too) get lost in perfectionism and the need to do it all right, but here’s the secret you already know: you don’t have to build it or do it all at once. 

Here are 4 Steps to help you get started with that thing you’ve been wanting to do, without losing your sh*t:

Step 1: Start Small and Validate

Before diving into every possible idea, focus on one. Hone in on a specific problem and test it in the real world. Ask yourself: What’s the smallest version of this that can work?

If you want to start a business take your idea out for a spin by asking potential customers what they need and, more importantly, if they’re willing to pay for it. Whether it’s a prototype or a service, start simple and grow from there.

If you want to start a new habit or project, remember to keep it simple. 

Step 2: Refine and Pivot

Once you’re out there, be ready to adapt. The feedback loop is your best friend. If you’re working on your business listen carefully to your audience and customers, take their feedback to heart, and adjust accordingly. If you’re working on a new habit or project, get present and observe your own progress.  Don’t be afraid to pivot if your original idea doesn’t resonate. Flexibility is a key trait of successful founders.

Step 3: Mind Your Systems

As you refine your idea, build systems that can scale - don’t forget this is for you or your business. Whether you are adding another product to your company, or your kid is starting a new sport and now you have to spend more time in the car, systems can simplify your workload, streamline your processes, and prevent burnout. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel every day. Create templates, document your steps, and use tools to automate where you can. Or, set reminders, put it on your calendar, and start listening to your favorite podcasts while you’re waiting.

Step 4: Prioritize Self-Care

Whether you’re running your own business or starting something new, it is all about endurance. You know that phrase: “It’s a marathon, not a sprint.” Your mind is your greatest asset—protect it. Take breaks, check in with yourself, and practice mindfulness. Remember, if you’re not taking care of yourself, you won’t have the energy to take care to keep building and improving on what’s most important - YOU. 

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Built on YES is here to remind you that you’re strong, capable, and ready for whatever you’re starting next. Stay flexible, keep refining, and take one step at a time—whether in business, habits, or life. You’ve got this.