Growth is essential in every area of life but especially crucial in a business. A thriving business tracks its growth regularly and knows which steps to take to maintain progress. Your business should be growing to some extent every year, but remember that success doesn't happen overnight. Growth, however small, is still progress.
Maintaining steady growth will establish your business and expand your brand. No matter your level of business, there's always room for growth. Approach everything with a mindset to learn, and you'll go further faster.
To measure growth, compare where you are this year to the same time last year. You'll probably be pleasantly surprised to see your business has grown more than you thought.
Look back over your years of business and pinpoint the areas of growth that led to where you are now. Was there a breakthrough year or a dream job that opened doors? Did you have a revelation that completely changed how you approach business? Can you remake the recipe that resulted in those strides of growth?
If you feel stuck and don't see growth, focus on one area at a time to develop. Devote your time and attention to it and consider investing in education or mentorship. Avoid the comparison game, and don't get discouraged. Growth can be slow but stay the course, and you're hard work and dedication will be rewarded eventually.
Once you've started growing, it's time to maintain it! Surround yourself with people who inspire you to challenge yourself and push for excellence. Look for ways to expand your business's market and increase your passive income. Make it a goal to learn something new in photography or business management every year.
Submit your work to top publications and raise your prices to reach a new clientele. Become an educator and teach topics you're passionate about and have a wealth of knowledge to share. Niche down your brand or pivot to specialize in a new industry.
The incredible thing about being a creative business owner is there are no limits to the direction you can take! Grow at your own pace and on the right path for you. Know that you're capable of reaching the moon and having the business of your dreams.
