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What if business could be easy + fun?

Many years ago, I read an article on cross-training your strengths. As I implemented the author’s advice, I discovered that if you focus on improving your weaknesses, you’ll become average in those areas.

However, if you focus on developing your strengths - you’ll quickly unlock your zone of genius.

I’ve also learned the hard way that you can’t just ignore your weaknesses. The key is to find a system, tool or person to fill those gaps in your business.

Below, I’m sharing all of the partners, tools and systems that make running a business full of ease and keep me focused on my zone of genius.

 

How to unlock ease + joy in your business.

 
 
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Step 1: Make Friends With Money

Get your books in order. Really, stop whatever you’re doing right now get your free trial with Bench. Not only did I have the most amazing sales experience ever with them, but their contribution to my business happiness is continues to be priceless.

I used to hide from tax deadlines every year, but now I don’t skip a beat when tax season rolls around because I know my team at Bench is ready. I know you’ll love this company as much as I do! Sign up for Bench and get 20% off your first six months of bookkeeping here.

 
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Step 2: Pay Yourself

Get paid every month, on time. I used to be the last bill I paid, and so I got whatever was left over. And month after month, I was left out of my business finance equation. Then, I read a book called Profit First (brilliant!) and implemented the Mike’s system.

Now, I pay myself on time, each month - and I currently have about six months of payroll expenses in my account. I’ve implemented the Profit First system using a You Need a Budget. Then, I run payroll on autopilot using Gusto. Because I’d been using Gusto for the last 3 years, applying for the Payroll Protection Program was easy as pie. And my forgiveness process will be just as simple.

One more thing, when I do bring on contractors or part-time interns to help out in my business, Gusto makes onboarding and paying them a breeze. I know you’ll love Gusto as much as I do! In fact, I’ll pay you $100 to give it a try.

 
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Step 3: Build Your Tech Stack

I’m not techie, I just play on online :) Seriously, I’ve never had a programming class or gone to business school. Everything I know about online business is from being scrappy + willing to experiment.

From all that discovery, I’ve found a tech stack that works wonders for bringing my business dreams to life every single day. If you want to build a business with your strengths that changes the world in a positive way, here are the tools that will get you there.

Easily create a beautiful website with Squarespace. Then connect with you community + customers using MailChimp to schedule simple emails weekly. Set up a virtual coffee meet-up on Calendly to invite personal conversation into the mix. Create a Stripe account to take payments on any of these three platforms. Then, use Canva (the simplest and most fun design tool ever invented) to delight your community + customers with resources they’ll love.