I remember walking into the client's office for the first time—papers stacked on desks, phones...
Running a business is demanding (Not for the Weak or Faint Hearted). I know; I have been in nine different startups over the years, with five of them being my own. As a leader or entrepreneur, you’re constantly pulled in multiple directions, wearing various hats. But ask yourself this critical question:
Am I spending most of my time working in my business or working on my business?
The difference may seem subtle, but it determines whether your company grows — or whether you stay stuck in the day-to-day grind. The quicker you figure this out, the better, because you will reduce stress and gain profits.
The Problem Most Leaders Face
Running a business is demanding. You’re pulled in multiple directions, constantly putting out fires, and wearing every hat in the company. It feels like the business owns you, instead of you owning the business. The result? Stress, stagnation, and missed opportunities.
The Internal Struggle
You didn’t start your business to get bogged down in day-to-day tasks. Deep down, you know you should be focusing on growth, strategy, and leadership. But the urgency of “right now” keeps pulling you back into operations.
Working In Your Business: The Operator’s Trap
Working in your business means you are in the weeds:
- Handling customer calls
- Putting out fires with employees
- Managing orders, invoices, and logistics
- Personally solving every problem that comes up
This is the operator’s trap. Necessary? Yes. Sustainable? No.
If you’re always working in your business, you’re keeping the wheels turning, but you’re not building momentum. The result: your business owns you, rather than you owning your business. Your company, your family, your health, and your profits will stagnate or deteriorate, and life will pass you by without enjoying it.
Working On Your Business: The CEO Mindset
Working on your business is about leadership, growth, and vision. It’s when you step back to focus on:
- Building long-term strategy
- Establishing processes and systems
- Delegating effectively
- Developing your people into leaders
- Identifying new markets, partnerships, or opportunities
This is the CEO mindset. When you prioritize working on your business, you shift from being the “doer” to being the “builder.” That’s how sustainable businesses scale. Being out in front of your business enables you to network with like-minded individuals, focus on strategic partnerships, and achieve your objectives. You are responsible for what your company does poorly or adequately. NO ONE ELSE!
How can you Shift From working in your company to on your company
Here are five actionable steps to help you make the shift today:
- Audit Your Time
For one week, track how you spend every hour. Highlight tasks that could be delegated or automated. - Build Systems and Processes
Document workflows so your team can handle tasks without constant input from you. - Delegate Relentlessly
Ask yourself: “Am I the only one who can do this?” If not, train and empower someone else. - Schedule CEO Time
Block time weekly (non-negotiable) for strategy, innovation, and leadership development. - Measure What Matters
Define KPIs that focus on growth (such as sales, customer acquisition, and profit margins) rather than solely on operational busywork.
Why This Matters
Business owners who fail to make this shift burn out or fail to make strategic decisions. Growth plateaus can lead to employee frustration, and leaders may lose sight of their original purpose.
On the other hand, businesses where leaders consistently work on the business:
- Scale more effectively
- Build resilient teams
- Increase profitability
- Position themselves for long-term success
Final Thought
The difference between working in your business and working on your business is the difference between being a leader with a hobby and being a visionary leader.
Every business owner/leader has been in this position. Speaking for myself, I know how easy it can be to want to do it all or feel that I am the only one who can get it done. Don’t be that business owner; take stock and do the right thing now.
If you’re ready to step into the CEO role your business needs, start today. Audit your time, build systems, delegate, and make space for strategy.
Your business will thank you — and so will your future self and your family.
If you’re struggling to make this shift, Coastal Barrier helps leaders implement the systems and strategies to work on their business, not just in it. Contact us today to start scaling with clarity and confidence.
