There’s a truth in business that’s uncomfortable but essential to understand if you want to grow.
Not everything (or everyone) that got you here will get you there.
I’ve seen it time and time again with the business owners I coach - and I’ve lived it myself.
In the early stages, it’s all hands on deck. You say yes to everything, juggle roles, work with whoever’s available (or affordable), and build a version of the business that works.
But then… you hit a wall.
And what once felt like momentum starts to feel like maintenance.
The people, processes, and mindset that were perfect for survival aren’t built for scale.
Sometimes it’s:
- A team member who was great when you were small… but struggles in a bigger system
- A supplier or partner who’s no longer aligned with your direction
- Or even your own habits; wearing all the hats, making every decision, doing everything manually
And this is where most business owners hesitate.
Because change feels disloyal.
Or risky.
Or scary.
But here’s the reality: growth requires evolution.
You don’t have to throw everything away.
You don’t have to become someone completely different.
But you do have to be honest about what’s holding you back.
I worked with a client recently who’d built a brilliant £400k business - but she was exhausted. Her team were loyal but under-skilled, her systems were cobbled together, and her calendar was chaos.
She knew it couldn’t continue, but the guilt was real.
“These people helped me build this…”
“I can’t just change everything now…”
But staying the same was costing her more, financially and mentally.
So we restructured.
Upgraded roles.
Built systems.
Brought in a higher calibre of support.
Within 12 months she’d doubled her revenue and halved her hours.
Because the truth is: you owe your business more than you owe the past version of it.
You don’t need to be ruthless.
But you do need to be real.
Ask yourself:
- What am I clinging to because it feels safe, not because it’s serving me?
- Who (or what) helped me survive, but is now holding me back from thriving?
- Where do I need to upgrade? My systems, my support, or my standards?
Every new level demands a new version of you.
Not because the old you failed. But because you’ve outgrown the old way.
And that’s a good thing.
To your next level,
James
P.S. If this struck a nerve...it’s probably time to have a proper conversation about your next move. When you’re ready, I’m here to help make that transition clear and intentional.