I remember the moment it became clear I was applying Stage 3 business strategies to my Stage 1 business.
This lightbulb went off: “Of course I’m frustrated and burnt out – I’m skipping steps I didn’t even know existed.”
It felt like someone let the pressure valve go.
I stopped measuring myself by a Stage 3 yardstick and instead gave myself permission to slow down, breathe, and do this well. That shift changed everything.
Maybe you’ve felt this too.
Like you’re doing so much and still not seeing the traction you expected. Or like you’re stuck in neutral spinning your wheels even with all the right intentions.
Here’s what I’ve found after owning 4 businesses and working inside dozens of more:
We waste energy not because we’re doing it “wrong,” but because we’re doing the right things at the wrong stage.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- The 3 core stages of business growth
- How to know which stage you’re really in (even if you’re already making money)
- Common signs you’re applying the wrong strategy for your stage
- Key assets and systems to focus on at each stage
- The mindset shifts that will support you through each transition
- Gentle, aligned ways to move forward without burnout or hustle
Most entrepreneurs don’t have a strategy problem.
They have a sequencing problem.
When you know what stage you’re actually in, and align your efforts accordingly, your work feels smoother and you move forward without burning out.
The 3 Stages of Growth
Here’s how I break it down:
Stage 1: Proof of Concept Phase
This phase typically lasts 6–24 months. You might be tempted to rush through it… or get stuck here way longer than necessary.
If your revenue has plateaued, and your energy is fading, you may be trying to scale without a solid foundation. That creates internal friction and makes your progress feel like pushing a boulder uphill.
This phase typically lasts 6–24 months. You might be tempted to rush through it… or get stuck here way longer than necessary.
If your revenue has plateaued, and your energy is fading, you may be trying to scale without a solid foundation. That creates internal friction and makes your progress feel like pushing a boulder uphill.
Your goals in this stage:
- Prove people actually want your offer
- Deliver your service exceptionally well
- Test different offers, content, and messaging
- Develop your style and voice
- Build trust and credibility
Assets to focus on:
- Case studies (not just testimonials)
- Community building and engagement
- SEO and discoverability
- Foundational systems (website, onboarding, email list)
Mindset challenge I see most often:
Impatience and imposter syndrome.
Stage 1 is NOT about scaling quickly.
Stage 1 IS about getting strong roots in place so you don’t burn out later.
Where in your business are you craving more spaciousness?
If you’re in stage 1 then the CEO Flow Method — a 3-month sprint where we build your core assets and move through mindset blocks with thoughtful, strategic support is perfect for you. My clients often call this “business therapy” because of the grounded clarity and calm momentum it brings.
Stage 2: Stabilization Phase
This is the systems-and-structure stage. It often lasts 3–12 months.
This is where we lay the foundation for stage 3. Do not skip this part! You’ll thank me later.
In this stage revenue is coming in consistently, your audience is engaged, and things are starting to get busy. If things are working but you feel overwhelmed, it might be because your backend isn’t supporting your growth. You’re in demand, but everything still relies on you.
Your goals in this stage:
- Systemize client delivery and project management
- Refine your offers and messaging
- Prep to delegate or hire
- Create a seamless customer experience
Assets to focus on:
- Clear onboarding and delivery workflows
- SOPs (standard operating procedures)
- A simple funnel or customer journey
- Tech and tools that support scale (Kajabi, Thinkific, etc.)
Mindset challenge i see most often:
Letting go of being the “doer” and stepping into your CEO identity.
Stage 2 is NOT about building flashy automations.
Stage 2 IS about organizing the heart of your business so others can help carry it with you.
Which piece of your business still lives only in your head?
If you’re in stage 2 a System Build is the perfect fit. I’ll come in and set up or refine your systems with you. We’ll get you organized in a quarter of the time and prepare your business for scale (stage 3!).
Stage 3: Amplify Visibility & Scale
This is the season of optimization and visibility. It’s where all the work you’ve done starts to pay off.
You’re ready to scale, not by adding more, but by doubling down on what already works.
This is also where delegation becomes essential. Your team becomes the engine that keeps things running – freeing you up to lead, speak, and grow.
Your goals:
- Reach new audiences
- Book high-leverage visibility (podcasts, panels, speaking gigs)
- Diversify revenue streams
- Delegate effectively and confidently
Assets to refine:
- Your core offers
- Pitch deck for podcasts and speaking engagements
- Messaging and content strategy
- Team structure and SOPs
- Metrics and systems for scale
Mindset challenge i see most often:
Letting yourself receive -more time, income, support. Releasing the need to always be “busy.”
Stage 3 is NOT about hustle.
Stage 3 IS about building with intention and allowing ease.
What does it feel like in your body to not be busy all the time? Can you trust that rest is part of scaling?
If you’re in stage 3 a Business Management Retainer is the perfect fit. I support the big picture strategy, day-to-day operations, team leadership, and project planning, so you can stay in your zone of genius without constantly steering the ship alone.
Which stage are you truly in? (not the one you want to be in)
Pause and check in, is your current strategy aligned with your current season?
If you’re not sure and want an outside perspective, this is the exact kind of clarity you’ll get in a Free Strategy Session. I help you name the stage and define your priorities.
You can book a free strategy call here. No pressure, just a conversation to help you see clearly what’s next.
