Is Your Business Running You? It’s Time to Flip the Script

Do you ever feel like your business is running you, rather than the other way around? As interior designers, we often pour our hearts into our work, only to find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, and unsure if the sacrifices we’re making are truly worth it. If you're tired of feeling like you're working for your business instead of it working for you, it's time to rethink your approach.

At the heart of successful interior design lies more than just creativity and innovation—it’s about crafting a business that not only thrives but also enhances your life. Drawing from nearly 20 years of personal and professional experiences, I’ve navigated the ebbs and flows of business growth, and now I want to share strategies that will help you do the same.

Embracing the Natural Ebb and Flow

The business of interior design, like life itself, has its seasons—periods of expansion, contraction, and everything in between. Early in my career, I experienced massive growth, especially in my twenties when I was single and had the energy to push my business to new heights. But as I entered my thirties, got married, and started a family, I had to learn the importance of scaling back. This wasn't just about cutting back on hours—it was about being intentional with my time, knowing when to lean in and when to step back.

The key is to recognize and plan for these phases. A flexible business plan that accommodates both growth and contraction allows you to harness the full potential of your business when it’s time to grow, while also giving you the space to contract without losing momentum.

Preventing Burnout with a Sustainable Work Model

Burnout is one of the biggest challenges for interior designers, especially when your business demands more from you than it gives back. After nearly two decades in the industry, I’ve seen firsthand how the pressure to constantly expand can lead to exhaustion and even a loss of passion for the work we love.

To combat this, I’ve implemented a sustainable work model that allows for both high-intensity growth periods and restful, rejuvenating downtimes. This model is not just about managing workloads—it's about creating a lifestyle that supports your well-being. By scheduling intentional breaks and prioritizing your mental and physical health, you can maintain your creativity and enthusiasm for the long haul.

Aligning Your Business with Your Values

As interior designers, our work is an expression of who we are. Yet, it’s easy to lose sight of our core motivations when we’re caught up in the day-to-day demands of running a business. Over the years, I’ve found that regularly aligning my business goals with my personal values is crucial for long-term success and fulfillment.

When I earned my Master’s degree in Business Administration, I learned the importance of strategic planning. But it wasn’t until I began coaching other designers that I truly understood how essential it is to align business objectives with personal values. This alignment ensures that your business serves your life—not the other way around.

Three Actionable Steps to Reclaim Your Business

You don’t have to choose between a successful business and a fulfilling life. By taking these three actionable steps, you can create a business that not only thrives but also brings you joy and fulfillment:

1. Develop a Flexible Business Plan: Create a plan that allows for both expansion and contraction. This flexibility will enable you to scale your business in a way that fits your lifestyle, no matter what season of life you’re in.

2. Implement a Sustainable Work Model: Avoid burnout by building a work model that supports both your professional and personal well-being. Schedule regular breaks and ensure that your business activities are sustainable in the long term.

3. Align Your Business Goals with Your Personal Values: Regularly revisit your business goals to ensure they align with your core values. This alignment will keep you motivated and ensure that your business serves your life, not the other way around.

Create a Business That Serves You

You deserve a business that works for you, that allows you to live your life fully while still achieving your professional dreams. By embracing the natural ebb and flow of business growth, implementing sustainable practices, and keeping your core motivations front and center, you can build a business that not only meets your financial goals but also enriches your life.

Let’s discover together how to create a business that serves your life, bringing you joy and fulfillment without sacrificing profit. Your journey to a balanced, successful interior design career starts here.

If you're ready to reclaim your business and design a life that brings you both joy and success, let’s get started. Book your strategy session with me today to explore how we can tailor these strategies to fit your unique situation. Or, if you’re looking for more insights, watch my presentation to the Interior Design Society here and start transforming your business into one that truly serves you.

Your journey to a balanced, fulfilling interior design career begins now—let’s make it happen together!