In a recent podcast episode, Brad sat down with Andrea Liebross, an entrepreneur and coach who specializes in helping small business owners, particularly women, navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses. The conversation was rich with insights on overcoming the "messy middle," embracing change, and adopting a CEO mindset. Here are the main points and actionable steps you can take to elevate your business.

Key Takeaways

1. The Messy Middle

Andrea introduced the concept of the "messy middle," a phase where business owners find themselves stuck between initial success and the next level of growth. This period is often fraught with challenges, including time management, guilt over work-life balance, and the fear of scaling.

2. Thought Options and Big Thinking

Andrea emphasized the importance of considering all thought options. She explained that our brains are wired to default to familiar, often negative, thought patterns. By consciously choosing more positive and productive thoughts, business owners can unlock new possibilities and solutions.

3. Embracing Uncertainty

One of the core principles of thinking big is embracing the unknown. Andrea pointed out that uncertainty is a natural part of growth. Business owners must become comfortable with not knowing exactly how things will turn out but still take steps forward.

4. The CEO Mindset

Transitioning from a craftsman to a businessman involves adopting a CEO mindset. This means trading time and money for energy, focusing on strategic thinking, and optimizing both personal and business vitality. It's not about the size of your business but how you approach it.

5. Increasing Risk Tolerance

Andrea discussed the importance of increasing your risk tolerance. This involves practicing taking small risks to build your "risk muscle." Over time, this will make you more comfortable with larger, more impactful decisions.

Action Steps

1. Identify Your Messy Middle

Take some time to assess where you are in your business journey. Are you experiencing the messy middle? Identify the specific challenges you're facing, whether it's time management, scaling, or work-life balance. Write these down and consider seeking external help, like a coach, to navigate this phase.

2. Practice Thought Options

Start practicing the concept of thought options. When faced with a challenging situation, consciously choose to think about it in multiple ways. For example, instead of defaulting to "This is too hard," try thinking, "This is an opportunity to learn and grow." This shift in mindset can open up new avenues for problem-solving.

3. Take Small Risks

Begin by taking small, manageable risks in your business. This could be something as simple as increasing your prices or implementing a new marketing strategy. Track the outcomes and learn from them. As you become more comfortable with these smaller risks, gradually take on larger ones.

Conclusion

Adopting a CEO mindset and embracing the principles of big thinking can significantly impact your business's growth and your personal well-being. By identifying your messy middle, practicing thought options, and increasing your risk tolerance, you can navigate the complexities of scaling your business with confidence and clarity.

Direct Links:

Andrea's website: https://www.andrealiebross.com

Andrea's Instagram Account: https://andrea.liebross.coaching

Andrea's LinkedIn Account: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-liebross/

Andrea's Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/andrealiebrosscoaching/

Andrea's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/time-to-level-up/id1543392747rname

She thinks big book: https://andrealiebross.com/books

Resources:

Join my free Facebook group for Contractors: https://www.facebook.com/groups/contractorprofitblueprint

Free Sales Guide: https://theprofitclub.hammerandgrindpodcast.com/sales-training-optin

Profit Journal: https://www.lulu.com/shop/brad-huebner/profit-journal/paperback/product-ype4j9.html?q=profit+journal&page=1&pageSize=4