Frances Quinn
It’s easy to get caught up in habits that seem productive but actually limit your business’s growth. As a business owner, you want to make the most of every effort, every strategy, and every opportunity. But if you’re constantly obsessing over these three things, you may find you’re working harder, not smarter.
Here are three common habits that often hold business owners back, along with some practical steps to help you move past them.
1. Obsession with Perfection
High standards are valuable, but aiming for perfection in every detail can end up keeping your business stuck. Many founders fall into this trap, spending too much time trying to perfect each element instead of moving forward. In practice, efficiency often gets you further than perfection.
Break free by:
- Focusing on high-impact actions over minor details
- Simplifying decision-making to keep things moving
- Empowering your team to make decisions and take ownership
- Balancing strategy with intuition so you’re not getting stuck in analysis
If letting go of “perfect” feels challenging, start by identifying one area in your business where progress will create more impact than perfection. This more balanced approach helps free up time and allows your team to work with a stronger sense of momentum.
2. Obsession with Control
It’s natural to want a close eye on your business, but holding on too tightly can limit both your team’s potential and your own. Many founders struggle to delegate, fearing that only they can get the work done “the right way.” But handing off responsibility is often what helps accelerate real progress.
Instead, learn to let go by:
- Delegating with trust
- Building a team you can rely on
- Encouraging autonomy so your team feels motivated to step up
- Using tools that make collaboration seamless
- Celebrating wins as a team
If letting go of control is a challenge, start by clearly defining roles and expectations. Invest time in training to ensure your team is set up for success. With measurable goals, collaborative tools, and regular feedback, you’ll build a capable team that’s committed to driving the business forward.
3. Obsession with Immediate Results
Focusing on quick wins is tempting, but it can create tunnel vision. Many business owners get caught up in chasing short-term gains, only to find themselves repeatedly starting from scratch. Having patience with a strategic approach is what actually creates sustainable success.
Instead, focus on long-term progress by:
- Emphasising intentional, strategic planning
- Building and nurturing long-term relationships
- Investing in practices that lead to sustainable growth
- Balancing immediate needs with future goals
If strategic patience is a struggle, take time to revisit your business vision. Check that your daily actions align with your larger goals, and stay open to shifts when necessary. Learning from industry leaders and keeping up with market trends can give you valuable perspective on what’s possible with a long-term view.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Each of these habits comes from a drive to succeed. But often, they end up slowing down your progress rather than supporting it. By shifting your approach to value efficiency, trust, and long-term growth, you’ll start unlocking the full potential of your team, your business, and yourself.
Real growth happens when you build a solid, adaptable foundation. Letting go of these habits can help you stay agile, empower your team, and set up a business that thrives for years to come.
If you want to make sure you have everything covered, book in a FREE 15-MINUTE STRATEGY CALL to discuss what you can let go of so you can boost your profits and watch your small business, coaching, or consulting practice thrive! 👇
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