The 5 Primary Stages of Business Every Entrepreneur Goes Through

Understanding Your Entrepreneurial Journey

Every entrepreneur experiences a unique journey, yet there are common phases that most business owners go through. Understanding these stages can help you navigate challenges, celebrate wins, and prepare for whats ahead. Lets explore the five primary stages of business that shape every entrepreneurs path to success.

Phase 1: Im trying to get there

The first one to three years of business are usually dedicated to trying to get there. You want more followers, more clients, more sales, more recognition—the hustle is very real and most often fueled by an optimistic desperation. What I learned in my own journey and what I tell my young entrepreneurs is to add more love into the hustle. Its great to work hard, but make sure you are having fun along the way.

If you are resenting your work because it isnt bringing in the results you want, your business cant flourish. Instead of trying to get there, recognize youve already arrived. You are already your own boss, and it takes time to build trust and get momentum. Dont give up—just keep plugging away with joy and more love.

Phase 2: I got there, and I am worried it will go away

The next phase we all experience is that fleeting sense of euphoric OMG, I made it! Whether you landed the sweet contract, the giant book deal, or the national TV segment, you think, I did it. Ive arrived! I got where I have been trying for so long to get to. Then almost immediately fear sets in and we worry Will it go away?

Things seem too good to be true. You wonder if people will take you seriously, or will it all go away? This is a fear-based reaction to living life at a new level. You arent used to the success, so naturally it could feel a little uncomfortable at first. The best thing to do is prepare yourself for this stage by owning your worth and valuing yourself sooner. When you believe in your work and what you have to offer, this stage is minimal.

Phase 3: I got there, but its not what I expected

You get to that elusive place. You may surpass your mentors or coaches with sales, followers, or even industry recognition. Industry leaders may seek you out for advice now. Youre no longer stressed about how to get there because you are there. You no longer worry about income because it flows in steadily. This is what youve worked so hard for, but you cant help but wonder why living your dreams feels so different than what you expected.

The key word is expected. Our expectations are what doom us in business. Expectations rob us from feeling good in the moment. Its good to have goals, but having expectations looks like phase one or two thinking: When I have X amount of clients I will be happy, or When I am on national TV I will be making tons of money, or When I release my book, I will be an instant best seller, etc. When these expectations dont happen we feel let down. Even when and if they do happen, it usually feels different than what we hoped for. Instead, focus on all of the good things that have happened and release your expectations.

Phase 4: I am proud of how far Ive come

The next phase is a glorious time when you recognize how far you have come. Youve worked really hard and have made a great difference for your clients, customers, or team members. You may take a vacation and decide not to work the entire time; you might celebrate by scheduling more playtimes with family and friends. This is a happy time in your life and something youve worked very hard for.

But you dont have to wait until your business is self-sufficient and you are successful to be proud of yourself. No matter what phase you are in, be proud of yourself each day you show up and do the best you can. That in itself is enough.

Phase 5: Relax and enjoy

The fifth stage all entrepreneurs work toward is the I did it phase. This is the time you can relax and truly enjoy what youve created. But this phase doesnt last long, because as entrepreneurs we are always thinking about our next launch, idea, or best practice to stay relevant to our core customers. So take some time to relax, enjoy your beautiful business, but roll up your sleeves and get back to work.

After all, the journey is the reward. The entrepreneurial spirit thrives on continuous improvement, innovation, and growth. Celebrate your wins, but remember that the real satisfaction comes from the process of building something meaningful.