Things I learned as a small business owner/freelancer in 2021. They might seem small but they have had a big impact on my new strategy going forward.

1. Boundaries should be everywhere in your business from your contract to your schedule.

2. Implement a starter fee or down payment. When serious money is being spent, people act seriously.

3. Take time with new clients, get to know them, their work, and their expectations. Overnight onboarding almost never works out in your favor as a service provider.

4. We live in a world where rest is seen as a luxury or reward, when in fact it is a requirement. Staring at a screen all day has been proven to drain you, so it is important to allow yourself time to rest and go get some fresh air.

All of these lessons were growing pains for me this year. Luckily this growth spurt is over and we can begin again fresh!