5 Lessons One Year of Running Your Own Business Will Teach You (Especially If You're Doing It Solo)
It’s been one year since I launched Booked by Alex, and while I started it with the goal of helping couples plan stress-free, meaningful trips, I never imagined how much I’d grow in the process.
If you’re running a business solo, or thinking about starting, these are five lessons I didn’t expect to learn, but I’m so grateful I did.
1. Resilience is built in the quiet moments
The big wins are amazing, but the real growth happens when you keep showing up on the days no one sees. The days you’re tired, unsure, or questioning everything and you show up anyway. I’ve learned that consistency, not perfection, is what builds resilience.
2. The right clients make all the difference
There is nothing better than working with clients who trust you, respect your process, and align with your values. I’ve learned that it’s okay to say no to opportunities that don’t feel like the right fit because when the match is right, the work flows with so much more ease and joy.
3. You don’t have to have all the answers
One of the most freeing lessons? It’s okay to say, “I don’t know yet.” I used to think I had to respond immediately or be the expert 100% of the time. Now, I know that honesty builds more trust than pretending ever could.
4. Trusting your gut is a skill you can strengthen
There were moments this year when I had to make decisions without a roadmap and more often than not, my gut was right. Learning to listen to that inner voice (and not the fear voice) has been a huge part of my growth as a business owner.
5. Your wins deserve to be celebrated
Not just the big, flashy ones. The small moments too the thoughtful DM from a happy client, the itinerary that came together beautifully, the inquiry that made you feel seen. I’m learning to pause and celebrate these, instead of rushing to the next task.
Running your own business is a wild, emotional, empowering ride. And if you’re doing it solo, just know: the growth you experience behind the scenes is just as meaningful as the milestones you share publicly.
If you’re thinking of starting something of your own, save this post for when you need a reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out. You’re learning, evolving, and doing better than you think.
