I’m sitting at my desk, coffee in hand, heart full of ideas—and if I’m being honest, a little bit of overwhelm too. The world of business and marketing is shifting fast, and with AI stepping onto the scene in a big way, it’s starting to feel like we’re all figuring it out in real time.

And here I am, building something right in the middle of it all.

We just did a massive update to Wordsmith. A completely redesigned dashboard that feels so much better—cleaner, easier to navigate, more intuitive. We added a whole new lineup of writing styles (they’re honestly so fun to play with), and more than anything, we laid the groundwork for what’s to come.

But I’d be lying if I said it didn’t feel big.

A Dream That’s Growing Bigger Than Me

When I first launched Wordsmith, it was simple: I wrote the content myself. I uploaded it. You logged in and had access to captions that were ready to go. It was built for real business owners who just needed a little help showing up online.

Now, we’re dreaming bigger. With AI entering the chat, everything has changed—and also, somehow, everything has stayed the same. Because at the core of Wordsmith is the same mission: to help you feel confident, clear, and supported in your content.

This next chapter? It’s about deepening that support.

So What’s Coming? Let Me Show You What I’m Dreaming Of

First up: a marketing calendar inside Wordsmith. One that helps you not just create content, but plan it. Organize it. Feel like you actually have a strategy again. (Because we both know that’s half the battle.)

Second: AI-powered idea generation that’s based on your business. I want you to be able to take a quiz that tells Wordsmith who you are, what you do, and how you want to sound online. And from there? Content ideas that actually make sense for your brand. Not generic fluff. Just real, aligned suggestions that take the pressure off.

Third: cross-platform sharing and creative assets. Imagine creating one amazing piece of content and Wordsmith gives you the visuals and the resized versions for Instagram, your newsletter, even Pinterest or LinkedIn. Total time-saver, right?

This is what I’m mapping out right now, with sticky notes everywhere and my mind racing with possibility.

It Feels Big—Because It Is

This next season of Wordsmith isn’t about chasing trends. It’s about building something that truly becomes part of your business. Something that gives you back your time and energy. Something that lets you feel proud of what you’re putting out into the world.

But I’m also human. And sometimes, building something that hasn’t been done before? It feels heavy. I want to get it right. I want it to be something you love using.

So I’m asking: if you’ve got ideas, needs, or things you’d love to see inside Wordsmith, tell me. LEave a comment. Reply to the email. Your feedback means more than you know.

At the end of the day, I’m not building Wordsmith for me. I’m building it for you.

For the one who has so many ideas but no time to write them. For the entrepreneur who wants their marketing to feel more authentic. For the dreamer who’s tired of staring at the blinking cursor.

Let’s build this next version of Wordsmith together.

Because what’s coming? It’s going to be good.

And I can’t wait for you to be part of it.

Content Prompt: I’m not for everyone—and that’s a good thing. If you’re looking for [X], we probably won’t vibe. But if you want [Y], then you’re in the right place. Here’s why I do things differently, and why that might be exactly what you’ve been needing.

Copywriting Formula: Polarizing POV + Clarity

This week’s content prompt is all about standing tall in what makes your business unique.

By owning your perspective and getting clear about what you don’t do, you make room for your dream clients to lean all the way in. That’s the magic of a Polarizing Point of View – it doesn’t mean you’re being controversial for the sake of it. It means you’re being clear.

This is your permission slip to say, “This is who I am, this is how I work, and this is why it works.”

Why It Works:

Because clarity is magnetic.

In a noisy online world, people are craving honesty, realness, and someone who knows exactly what they stand for. When you confidently communicate who you’re for (and who you’re not), you build trust faster and attract the people who are already aligned with your style, your values, and your offer.

This kind of content weeds out the wrong fits and draws in the people who will love what you do—and stick around for the long haul.

Wordsmith Instructions:

Use this content prompt to draw a bold line in the sand. Write a post that highlights what you don’t offer, what you do, and why your approach is intentional. Share a little behind-the-scenes or personal story that reinforces your perspective.

New to Wordsmith? Just drop in this content prompt and a few details about your business. Wordsmith will create a blog post, newsletter, and social captions that sound like you and speak straight to your dream clients. It makes content creation faster, easier, and way more aligned.

How to Use This Prompt:

• Start with something your business isn’t
• Share what your business is
• Explain why this difference matters
• End with a CTA that invites your people in

Example Post Using This Prompt:

I’m not the kind of business that teaches you to post 5 times a day and hustle harder.

If you’re looking for fast hacks and overnight wins, I’m probably not your girl.

But if you want to build a sustainable, aligned business that grows with intention—welcome. You’re in the right place.

I built Wordsmith for people who want to connect with their audience, not just convert them. For people who believe their message matters and want content that reflects their values, their voice, and their heart.

You won’t find one-size-fits-all content here. You’ll find prompts that spark something real, plus the tools to turn those ideas into blog posts, emails, and captions that help your business grow.

Because you don’t need more content. You need better content that feels like you. Sign up for Wordsmith here

Information Needed About Your Business:

To bring this prompt to life, think about:

• What are you not offering or promising?
• What do your clients love most about your unique approach?
• How does your perspective differ from others in your industry?
• What makes your way more meaningful, sustainable, or impactful?

Use this prompt to speak with confidence. Your people will hear it—and feel it.

Let’s talk about a word that gets tossed around a lot in the world of entrepreneurship: consistency. It sounds good, right? It’s the kind of thing we all say we want more of—it’s pinned on vision boards, scribbled in planners, and woven into goal-setting rituals. But if we’re being really honest with ourselves, it’s not always the most exciting thing. It’s not flashy, it’s not glamorous, and it rarely comes with instant results or applause.

Consistency is steady. It’s quiet.

It’s the small, sometimes boring actions repeated over and over again… that eventually add up to something pretty incredible.

And this year? I made some big life shifts, both personally and professionally—and at the center of it all was my intention to finally embrace consistency like never before.

The Plan I Created (And Why This Year Felt Different)

At the end of last year, I sat down with my planner and a very long list of hopes for the year ahead. I love mapping out the big picture of my business—it’s something I look forward to every year. But this time, I went deeper. I created not just a broad annual strategy, but a detailed daily and weekly plan for my life and work.

And something shifted.

Instead of chasing inspiration or trying to build as I went (which, let’s be honest, was my norm for a long time), I started building structure. I mapped out 52 weeks of intentional focus—what I wanted to create, when I’d share it, and how it aligned with my bigger goals. I added tasks into my calendar with purpose. I made space for work and life.

And even though I’ve been in business for 16 years, this year—this year—I’ve felt more consistent than ever. And although I am working less hours, I really feel like I am getting so much more done.

It Wasn’t Easy… But It’s Working

Each week, I have a small list of “must complete” tasks. Not 30 things. Not a never-ending to-do list. Just the non-negotiables that, if completed, would keep me aligned with my bigger vision.

And let me tell you—it’s not always easy to check them off.

I’m a mom to four kids. Two are homeschooled. Two are little and full of energy. My days are full of snacks and questions and sticky fingers and math worksheets and bedtime stories. There are days when the laundry piles up and the dinner is frozen pizza. There are nights, like tonight, when I sneak downstairs after everyone’s asleep to open my laptop in the quiet and do the work I didn’t get to earlier.

But I show up.

Because consistency, for me, means showing up again and again—even when it’s not perfect, even when I’m tired, even when inspiration feels far away. It’s carving out time for what matters. It’s making a promise to yourself—and keeping it.

And the beauty of consistency is that it builds momentum. The more I show up, the more natural it feels. The more I follow the plan, the more clarity I have. It’s not always exciting… but it’s fulfilling.

What Consistency Looks Like in My Business

Since marketing is the heart of my business—and long-form content is my sweet spot—I committed to showing up every single week with new content. Blog posts. Newsletters. Evergreen content. And not just randomly posted when I found time, but with intention.

Each week, I follow a content plan I mapped out months ago. I batch when I can. I repurpose content across platforms. I share ideas I believe in.

And you know what? It’s working. Not just because it’s driving traffic or growing my audience (though it is), but because it feels good. It feels aligned. It feels like I’m running my business instead of letting it run me.

What It’s Meant for My Life

I built this business to support my life—not to take it over. And consistency has helped me live into that vision more than anything else.

Because of the systems I’ve set up, I can work when it works for me. I can wake up with the sun, not a long to-do list hanging over my head. I can have slow mornings with my kids, focus during naptime, and actually be present at dinner.

I don’t feel behind all the time. I’m not trying to catch up. I’m just steadily moving forward—little by little, day by day.

And honestly? That’s the kind of work that feels really good.

How You Can Add More Consistency Into Your Business and Life

If you’re reading this and thinking “I want that too…”—I’ve got you. Here’s how I’d start:

1. Create a simple weekly rhythm.

What are the 2–3 things that truly matter in your business each week? Pick your must-dos and schedule them in. That’s your new baseline.

2. Plan ahead (just a little).

You don’t need a 12-month business plan. Start by outlining the next 4 weeks. What do you want to create or share? Where will you show up? How does it all fit into your bigger goals?

3. Track your progress, not perfection.

Did you show up today? Did you take one small step? That counts. Celebrate it.

4. Let life shape your strategy.

Build your business around your life—not the other way around. Your schedule doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

5. Stick with it—especially when it gets boring.

This is the hardest part. Consistency will get boring sometimes. But boring is often where the breakthrough lives.

This year hasn’t been about overnight wins or viral moments. It’s been about showing up, one small step at a time. It’s been about learning to trust the process, even when it’s slow. It’s been about finally realizing that consistency—as quiet and unglamorous as it might be—is the real key to building something sustainable.

So if you’re in a season where you’re craving more ease, more rhythm, more trust in your own business… start here.

Start small.
Start steady.
Start again tomorrow.

Because consistency might not be flashy—but it’s the thing that builds the life you’ve been dreaming of.

A few years ago, I thought having a big following meant I was successful. I measured my momentum by how many likes I got, how many new followers clicked over, how often my content was shared. Back then, the numbers felt like a reflection of my worth. They were the proof I thought I needed that I was doing something right.

But somewhere along the way, I started asking a harder question:

What does success really look like—for me?

And the honest answer? It didn’t look like constantly chasing content ideas or feeling the pressure to stay “on” just to be seen. It didn’t look like growing an audience just for the sake of growth.

Instead, success looked like freedom. Like peace. Like getting to be home with my kids, working on projects I love, and building something meaningful without having to share every moment of it online.

Stepping Away From the Metrics

My real reward hasn’t been growing a large social media following. It’s been building a business that doesn’t depend on one.

And I’ll be honest—at first, I wasn’t even sure it was possible. Everyone I knew who was doing great in their business seemed to be all-in on social media. They were sharing constantly, showing up publicly, and building visibility by staying front and center. And for a while, I tried to keep up with that rhythm.

Because there’s no real rule book on how to build a modern business without social media. It felt like I was trying to merge old-school business principles with a modern-day spin—and I didn’t know if it would actually work.

For a long time, I leaned on social media because I thought it was the key to growth. And yes, it helped me build momentum in those early years. But it also made me feel like I had to be everywhere, all the time. That I had to share everything to be relevant. That my visibility equaled my value.

It wasn’t until I shifted my focus to long-term, sustainable marketing that everything changed.

I started to really focus on building my email list. I focused on creating evergreen content that lives on (hello blog posts and newsletters). I paid attention to the parts of my business that still worked even when I was off social media.

And slowly, something powerful happened:

I started breathing again.

And to really prove it, I didn’t post a single time in 2024 to show myself that yes, I could 100% run my business without needing social media.

Living a Quiet Life That Still Moves Big Things

I stopped feeling like I had to document every single moment.

Now, I show up on social when it feels right. Sometimes that means sharing more. Sometimes it means taking a quiet step back. But either way, my business doesn’t stop. My growth doesn’t pause. Because I’ve built a foundation that doesn’t rely on being plugged in 24/7.

And I can’t tell you how freeing that is.

There’s something sacred about being able to live your life without constantly performing it. About being present in a world that keeps telling you to produce. Some days I look around at the stillness in my home, the sound of my kids playing, the quietness of this life I’ve created—and it feels like success in its purest form.

This isn’t the kind of success you can measure by likes or views. It’s quieter than that.

It looks like mornings spent working in peace. It looks like knowing your worth isn’t tied to visibility. It looks like creating content you love, not content you’re pressured to make. It looks like building something sustainable, something soul-filling, something that doesn’t burn you out.

My business today looks very different than it did five years ago. It’s slower. It’s quieter. It’s deeply fulfilling.

And if you’re feeling the tug to change how you run yours—to step away from the noise, to do more of what feels right, to stop letting social media dictate your rhythm—I want you to know: it’s possible.

You don’t have to be everywhere. You don’t have to show everything. You don’t have to build a business that runs on likes.

You can build something honest. Something rooted. Something beautiful and deeply yours.

That, to me, is the new success.

Let’s talk about something that’s been quietly revolutionizing the way I work behind the scenes—AI. Now before you start picturing some robot sitting at a desk doing all my marketing for me—let me stop you right there. This isn’t about replacing the heart of your business or handing over everything to technology. It’s about working a little bit smarter. About giving yourself the gift of help in a world where we’re all trying to wear a dozen hats at once.

The other day, I posted a quick poll on Instagram asking who’s using AI—even in small, simple ways. 51% of my audience said they use it. The other 49%? They slid into my DMs with the same question: “Okay, but how?!”

If you’ve been feeling the same—curious about AI, wondering how it actually fits into your business without feeling robotic or overwhelming—this post is for you.

I’m going to walk you through exactly how I use it in my own work, why I created Wordsmith to help other business owners do the same, and where I’d start if I were brand new and just getting my feet wet.

I’m a Writer at Heart… But Not Always a Perfect One

Let me be honest with you—I’ve always loved writing.

There’s something about putting thoughts into words that feels like home to me. It’s how I make sense of the world. How I connect. How I teach and serve and show up.

But grammar?
Perfect sentence structure?
Avoiding run-on thoughts that sound more like a rambling voice memo?

Yeah… not so much.

I moved to America when I was 11 years old and didn’t speak a word of English. I learned the language by listening—by paying attention to the rhythm, the tone, the meaning behind the words. And while I eventually became fluent and feel like someone who’s great at communicating, I never had those early years of formal grammar lessons or spelling drills.

So now, when I sit down to write, I know what I want to say—but sometimes the mechanics don’t always come out perfectly. I write the way I talk. I pour my thoughts out quickly and with feeling. And honestly? I think that’s part of what makes my writing real and relatable.

Still, that’s also why AI has become one of my most trusted tools.

Using AI as a Second Set of Eyes

I can’t even count how many times I’ve typed out something I felt good about only to second-guess it later. Is this clear enough? Does it make sense? Is it too long? Too short? Too much?

With AI, I don’t have to bother a friend or send off yet another email to ask for feedback. I open up my favorite AI writing tool and ask it for help. And you know what? It’s fast. It’s supportive. And it gives me the clarity I was looking for without the emotional toll of overthinking everything.

I also use AI to get feedback on ideas, to rework headlines, to help me simplify a long piece of content, or even just explain something I want to understand better. My husband (a software engineer) uses it, too—to review his code, build test cases, troubleshoot bugs.

It’s not doing the work for us.
It’s helping us do the work better.

Why I Built Wordsmith Using AI

When I first created Wordsmith, AI wasn’t even a part of it. I was writing every single caption, newsletter, and blog post inside the platform by hand—and uploading them each month for other entrepreneurs to use.

And it worked. People loved it. The feedback was beautiful.

But over time, I started hearing the same thing again and again:
“I wish I could personalize this more… I love what you wrote, but I want it to sound more like me.”

That’s when I started exploring what AI could do.

So we built it into Wordsmith—not as a replacement for good writing or thoughtful marketing, but as a tool to help business owners write more authentically, efficiently, and with confidence.

Today, Wordsmith is like having a team of copywriters on call. Trained to understand your writing style. Focused on authentic, human-centered marketing. And ready to help you go from “no idea what to say” to “content that’s ready to publish.”

So… Want to Start Using AI? Here’s Where I’d Begin.

If you’re curious about using AI but not sure where to start, here’s my honest advice:

1. Start small.

Don’t try to replace everything overnight. Pick one task where you often feel stuck—maybe it’s writing your weekly email, brainstorming content ideas, or repurposing a blog post into a few social captions using Wordsmith.

2. Use AI as a collaborator, not a shortcut.

The best results happen when you bring the vision and AI helps bring it to life. You still get to be the voice. AI just helps you say it more clearly, consistently, and confidently.

3. Choose tools that are built for your goals.

You wouldn’t use a hammer to bake a cake, right? (Hopefully not.) The same goes for AI. General tools like ChatGPT can be great for some things—but platforms like Wordsmith are built specifically to help entrepreneurs like you write your content, your way.

That’s why so many of our users prefer it. It’s focused, simple, and actually helps you get content done.

AI is still really new to our world. And if you would have asked me 3 years ago if I’d be using it daily, I would have said no. But once I realized how much it could actually help me with my business… I was hooked.

And if you’ve been curious, this is your nudge.

Start slow. Explore. Let it help you where you need support—not to do less, but to do what you do even better.

And if you want to try Wordsmith, you can start with a free 7-day trial and see how it works for you. No pressure. Just a chance to see what’s possible when you stop doing it all alone.

Most importantly, have fun with with it. We live in some exciting times when it comes to business and technology.

Content Prompt: When you [specific action or result from your service], it doesn’t just change [initial benefit]—it changes everything. From [related benefit] to [unexpected positive outcome], the ripple effect is real. Let’s start creating yours today.

Copywriting Formula: Cause and Effect

This week’s content prompt taps into one of the most powerful parts of storytelling: cause and effect.

It’s easy to talk about what your service does on the surface—but what happens after that initial transformation? What shifts? What doors open? What positive chain reaction begins?

When you help your audience understand the full scope of what’s possible, they don’t just want your service—they feel the value.

Why It Works:

Sometimes the big, life-changing moments start with small steps. But your audience might not always see how those small wins lead to bigger transformations. This formula paints the whole picture.

It connects the dots between what your service does today and how it impacts everything else tomorrow—business growth, confidence, peace of mind, freedom, energy… all the things your audience actually wants.

And when they start to see that domino effect? They’re all in.

Wordsmith Instructions:

Use this week’s prompt to explore how your service creates ripple effects in your client’s life or business. Start with one clear transformation, then show how that creates positive change in other unexpected or meaningful areas.

Using Wordsmith? Add this prompt and a few simple business details into Wordsmith. It’ll turn your ideas into a blog post, newsletter, and social captions that feel aligned, personal, and full of value.

How to Use This Prompt:

• Start with one clear transformation your service offers
• Share a few unexpected or deeper ways that transformation continues to impact your clients
• Show how it all connects back to what your audience is really craving
• Invite them to experience that ripple effect for themselves

Information Needed About Your Business:

To make this prompt powerful, reflect on:

• What is the first, most visible transformation your service creates?
• What deeper or longer-term effects does that transformation cause?
• What do those changes mean to your audience’s life or business?

This prompt helps you paint the full picture—and remind your audience that the first step often leads to something even better.

Example Post Using This Prompt:

When you finally stop overthinking your content, it doesn’t just give you more clarity—it gives you your time back.

It helps you feel confident showing up online. It helps you stay consistent, even on your busiest weeks. It helps you attract more aligned clients who actually get you.

That’s the ripple effect of using Wordsmith.

You stop spinning your wheels and start creating content that works. You have a plan. You show up differently. And before you know it, your business starts feeling more fun, more aligned, and more profitable.

That’s what I want for you.

If you’re ready for the kind of momentum that keeps working long after you press post, let’s get started. Join Wordsmith here

You ever have one of those days where you open Instagram and instantly feel… tired? You scroll for a few seconds, see someone’s highlight reel, remember you haven’t posted in days (or weeks), and immediately feel that weight. That ugh, I should really post something kind of guilt that seeps in before you even finish your coffee.

If you’re anything like me (and so many other women I talk to), you’ve probably found yourself thinking, Do I really have to keep showing up here? Can I just… stop?

Lately, I’ve been having a lot of conversations with fellow business owners—smart, talented, creative women—who are all quietly wrestling with the same question:

“What if I just stopped posting Instagram?”

Let’s talk about that.

Are You Burned Out… or Just Ready for a New Way?

First, let’s name it: you’re not lazy, flaky, or uncommitted to your business if Instagram feels heavy right now. You’re probably just burned out by the constant pressure to be “on” all the time.
You know what I mean:

• Trying to keep up with trends that change every five minutes
• Wondering if your caption was too long, too short, too real, not real enough
• Watching your views tank and wondering if it’s you or the algorithm
• Feeling like you have to share every personal moment or “pivot” just to stay relevant

It’s exhausting.

But what if this feeling isn’t a sign that you’re failing?
What if it’s actually an invitation to do things differently?

I Stepped Back—And Found Something Better

A while ago, I decided to take a break. Not just a “detox” where I swore I’d be back in a week (spoiler: I usually was), but an actual year long pause to re-evaluate what purposeful content really looked like for me.

What I found wasn’t just more white space or less stress—it was clarity.

I realized I didn’t want to chase every trending audio or force a reel just to stay visible.
I wanted to create content that mattered.
Content that would last longer than 24 hours and didn’t rely on a perfect photo or a catchy hook.

That’s when I came back to something that’s been quietly working in the background for me for years: my email list, my blog, and actually spending more time working on all my ideas.

Here’s What I’m Doing Instead of Pouring It All Into Instagram

I’ve completely restructured the way I think about content. It’s not about “posting to post” anymore—it’s about showing up with purpose. And these three things have changed everything:

1. I’m focusing on my email list first.

It’s not flashy. It’s not public. But it’s mine. I’ve had over 100,000 passionate business owners subscribe to be on my list and that feels better than any social media metric. When I write an email now, I picture a real person reading it. Just one person who needs what I have to say. And I let that be enough.

2. I’m blogging consistently again. And loving it.

Long-form content has space for real thoughts, stories, lessons. It’s not trying to fight for 8 seconds of attention. It’s timeless—and it keeps working long after you hit publish.

3. Working on Wordsmith To Help Others

These days, I spend more time behind the scenes—helping other business owners create content that makes it easy to show up consistently and with confidence. And the more I do that through Wordsmith, the more I learn about what it really means to show up with purpose.

When I’m not writing for myself, I’m creating for Wordsmith.
Crafting blog prompts, writing email sequences, building out content plans… all with the intention of giving business owners like you the tools to share your message in a way that feels aligned—not overwhelming.

Wordsmith has become more than a platform. It’s a quiet partner in helping others find their voice again.
And in the process, it’s helped me refine mine, too.

You’re Not Wrong for Wanting to Quit—But You Do Have Options

If you’ve been feeling like Instagram isn’t the place for you right now… it’s okay.
You’re allowed to shift.
You’re allowed to change how you show up.
And you’re absolutely allowed to find a better, more aligned way to market your business.

The truth is, you don’t have to be everywhere. You just have to be intentional with where (and how) you show up.

Want a Fresh Start with Your Content Strategy?

Everything I’ve learned about content—the kind that connects, that carries weight, that actually means something—has shaped what I’ve built inside Wordsmith.

After years of helping business owners write words that felt like home, and after learning firsthand how powerful it is to show up with purpose (not pressure), I knew I had to create something more than just another writing tool.

Wordsmith was born out of that calling.
A desire to take the guesswork out of content.
To take your voice, your ideas, your style—and help you turn them into content that feels right.
Not robotic. Not trendy. Not “what everyone else is doing.”
But content that sounds like you. Because that’s what your audience really needs.

Wordsmith has transformed the way so many women are showing up in their businesses.
They no longer sit down at a blank screen, wondering what to say.
They don’t have to be on every platform or try to do it all alone.

Instead, they have a plan.
A voice.
A rhythm.
And a little support behind the scenes helping it all flow.

So if this post felt like a deep exhale… maybe this is your invitation.
Not to give up. Not to disappear.
But to begin again—with more intention, and less noise.

More than 12,000 entrepreneurs have already joined Wordsmith to simplify their content strategy.
You can, too. Start your free 7-day trial and get full access—explore it all, no strings attached.

Let’s be real—taking time off when you work for yourself sounds dreamy… until you actually try to do it.

You start picturing relaxing mornings, time with your family, and finally soaking in the life you’ve worked so hard to build. But then the to-do list hits. The unanswered emails. The client needs. The content calendar. And suddenly, your “vacation” starts looking a lot like working from a different time zone.

I’ve felt that tension before. But this summer? I’m doing things differently.

We’re packing up our family of six and heading to Europe—Germany (where I was born and raised), Switzerland, and Italy—for two full weeks. It’s not a work trip. It’s not a business retreat. It’s an actual vacation with my husband and all four of our kids. And I’m doing everything I can right now to make sure I can actually be present while we’re there.

If you’ve ever struggled to truly unplug as an entrepreneur, or if you’re planning your own time off soon, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how I’m preparing for a break that’s both peaceful and productive.

Planning Ahead: The Secret to Truly Enjoying Time Off

Every December, I sit down and plan out my entire year. It’s a ritual I look forward to, and it helps me approach my business with intention rather than urgency.

Because of that, I already know what work needs to happen week by week—and when we finalized our trip, I immediately started shifting my workload. Instead of trying to cram everything in last-minute, I’ve been slowly building the two weeks of work I’d normally do into the month prior.

Yes, it’s a little more effort upfront. But it’s so worth it when you can walk into vacation with your shoulders relaxed instead of hunched over your laptop.

Batching Content and Pre-Scheduling to Stay Visible

One of my biggest strategies? Pre-scheduling content in advance so my business stays consistent while I’m offline.

I’ve been batching blog posts, writing newsletters, and loading them into my scheduler so they go out while I’m away. That way, everything keeps flowing—without me needing to lift a finger or send one last email from the airport lounge.

It’s not about being everywhere at once. It’s about being strategic with your time. Do the work early, so you can rest when it really counts.

Letting Social Media Be Real Life (Not Just Business)

When it comes to social, I’m not overthinking it.

There’s no big campaign or content strategy for my trip. I’ll simply be sharing real-life moments—photos from Germany, scenes from the mountains in Switzerland, little updates from our family adventures.

I think sometimes we forget that people want to see the human behind the brand. They don’t expect you to be in launch mode 24/7. Sometimes, letting them in on the behind-the-scenes of your life builds more connection than any curated post ever could.

Unplugging Fully: Why I’m Saying No to Work While Away

Here’s the part I’m most excited about—and the one that takes the most discipline: I’m unplugging.

No emails. No Slack. No quick “one last thing” moments that pull me out of the present.

This trip is incredibly meaningful to me. Not just because it’s Europe (though I’ll never say no to fresh pasta and an Alps view), but because it’s deeply personal. I haven’t been back to Germany in years. My mother’s entire side of the family still lives there, and bringing my husband and all four of our kids to experience that part of my story is something I’ve dreamed about for a long time.

If I’m taking time off, I want to actually be off. I want to soak up every minute. And that means saying a big, brave no to work while I’m gone.

Helpful Tips for Business Owners Planning a Break

Want to take your own unplugged vacation? Here are a few extra tips that have helped me:

• Use a project management tool (Airtable is my go to) to track what needs to get done before you leave.
• Set up an autoresponder that shares helpful links or lets people know when you’ll be back.
• Communicate early with any clients or team members, so there are no surprises.
• Test your systems—if you automate anything, make sure it’s running smoothly before you go.
• Ask yourself “what would really happen if this didn’t get done?” You might find the answer is… absolutely nothing.

One of the things I love most about working for myself is the freedom I have to create a schedule that works for me.

Over the years, we’ve traveled full-time, spent years living in Hawaii, and now that we’re settled in New England, this trip feels like a new kind of dream. A chance to not just build a life—but live it.

And honestly? I haven’t fully unplugged like this in a long, long time. It feels good to work toward rest. To plan for space. To trust my business enough to let it run without me for a while.

If you’ve been stuck in hustle mode, maybe this is your reminder that time off isn’t just okay—it’s essential. You built this life for a reason. Don’t forget to enjoy it.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Have a trip coming up? Or maybe you’re dreaming of more time off but unsure how to make it happen? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop a comment below or come say hi on Instagram @elenaringeisen—I’ll be sharing some sweet family moments from Europe, and I’d love to cheer you on, too.

Here’s to building a business that gives you life—not one that drains it.

If you’re running a small business, you’ve probably felt the pressure to be everywhere—Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Reels, Stories, emails, DMs… it’s a lot. Especially when all you really want is to grow your business, reach the right people, and not feel glued to your phone.

That’s why I love Pinterest.

Not as a place to post pretty things just for the sake of it—but as a quiet powerhouse that works in the background of my business. It brings in new people, helps me grow my email list, and drives actual sales… all without needing a huge budget or daily content creation.

If you’ve ever wondered if Pinterest ads could work for you, I want to show you exactly why I think this platform is so perfect for small businesses like ours.

Let’s start with something I want you to really think about…

What would your business feel like if your marketing didn’t need you every single day?

What would change if new people could discover what you do—without you constantly posting, replying, and showing up on camera?

What if your email list grew, your sales trickled in, and your content kept working for you… while you rested, created, or lived your life outside the screen?

If you’re a small business owner who’s tired of feeling like your growth depends on how much energy you have left that day, I want to introduce you to one of the most underrated platforms out there: Pinterest.

This isn’t about the pretty mood boards you used in 2012 or saving recipes you never make (though I still do that). I’m talking about Pinterest as a quiet workhorse—a tool that helps your business grow sustainably, affordably, and in a way that actually fits your life.

I’ve used Pinterest ads to grow my email list, increase sales, and bring in a steady stream of traffic to my site—all without spending thousands or being glued to my phone.

Here’s what we’re walking through today:

• Why Pinterest isn’t social media—and why that matters
• How Pinterest ads work (and why they don’t require a huge budget)
• What makes Pinterest users different—and how that works in your favor
• Why Pinterest is perfect for growing your email list
• What you don’t need to make it work (hint: not a designer!)
• And my honest reflections on why Pinterest ads feel so aligned with the way I want to run my business

By the end of this post, I hope you feel more spacious, more empowered, and more supported to try a marketing strategy that doesn’t just demand from you—but gives something back.

Let’s dive in.

Pinterest isn’t social media—it’s a search engine

This is the biggest mindset shift: Pinterest isn’t like Instagram or TikTok. It’s not about trends or followers. It’s a search engine. People go there with purpose—looking for ideas, solutions, inspiration, or products.

That means your content doesn’t get buried after 24 hours. Pins have a long shelf life, especially if you’re using Pinterest ads to get them in front of your ideal audience sooner.

If you’ve ever wanted your content to keep working for you long after you post it—this is where that happens.

You don’t need a big budget to see results

You can start running Pinterest ads for as little as $5–$10/day. And unlike other platforms that eat up your budget fast, Pinterest tends to be more efficient because of how people use it.

Most Pinterest users are already in the mindset to plan, buy, and take action. They’re not just scrolling. They’re searching. That makes it easier to reach people who are already looking for what you offer.

Even a small budget can go a long way when it’s paired with a clear message and a strong visual.

Pinterest users are in buying mode

Pinterest has something really special going for it: people trust what they find there. And they use it when they’re ready to do something.

So if you’re thinking, “But no one’s ever heard of my brand”—that’s actually an advantage here. Over 90% of Pinterest searches are unbranded, which means people are open to discovering new products and businesses. Like yours.

It’s one of the few places online where small businesses can show up right next to big-name brands—and actually compete.

It’s low-maintenance marketing that keeps working

This is one of my favorite things about Pinterest ads: once you set them up, they keep working.

You can pre-schedule your content. You don’t have to post every day. You don’t have to be “on” all the time. You can even take a break (hello, vacation) and know that your content is still driving traffic and conversions in the background.

If you’re building a business with long-term sustainability in mind, Pinterest fits in beautifully.

Pinterest helps grow your email list (not just your engagement)

One of my biggest priorities is always growing my email list—because that’s something I own. Pinterest makes that easy.

When someone clicks on your pin, they’re taken directly to your website, not kept inside an app. That gives you a chance to connect with them beyond a one-time visit—whether that’s through a lead magnet, a freebie, or simply a warm welcome to your world.

It’s a calm, intentional way to grow—without the daily grind of trying to beat an algorithm.

You don’t have to be a designer to make great pins

I know design can feel overwhelming, but Pinterest doesn’t require you to be fancy. It just needs to be clear.

Use clean graphics, easy-to-read text, and imagery that helps your audience immediately understand what your content or offer is about. Tools like Canva (or Pinterest templates) make this incredibly easy, even if design isn’t your thing.

It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being helpful.

I know it can feel like you need to be a certain size or have a certain following before paid ads are “worth it.” But that’s the beauty of Pinterest—it works because it’s not dependent on how many people already know you.

If you’re clear on who you’re trying to reach and how you can help them, Pinterest is a space where you can quietly (and consistently) show up, offer value, and grow—without burning out or blowing your budget.

Want to learn how to run Pinterest ads that actually work?

If you’re curious about setting up Pinterest ads but feel a little overwhelmed, I put together something just for you.

It’s a 90-minute Pinterest Ads Tutorial that walks you through everything—from creating your first campaign, to writing great pin copy, to choosing the right settings without wasting money.

You can grab the tutorial here and start running your first ad today.

You don’t need a marketing team or a $1,000/month ad budget. You just need a plan—and this is a great place to start.

I can still remember the feeling—packing up my gear on a Friday night, knowing I’d be spending yet another weekend photographing other families while missing time with my own.

At the time, I was fully booked with motherhood sessions—those beautiful, emotional, joy-filled shoots with mamas and their babies. While I genuinely loved capturing those sweet connections and helping other mothers freeze time in such a fleeting season, there was always a quiet ache in my chest.

Because while I was giving my clients memories they’d cherish forever, I was missing out on my own.

I wasn’t there for lazy Saturday mornings in pajamas, or spontaneous afternoon walks with my kids. I was spending weekends creating for others, while watching my own time with my family slip by in the margins.

And what made it harder? I knew that if I stopped shooting—even for a weekend—I wasn’t just pressing pause on work. I was pausing my entire income.

That was the moment it clicked: I needed to build a business that could run with me and for me—even when I wasn’t actively working.

The Limitations of Service-Based Business (Even the Ones You Love)

Service-based businesses can be beautiful. They’re often built on heart and hard work. They let us share our gifts in deeply personal ways. But there’s an unspoken truth that not enough of us talk about: they have a cap. A limit.

There are only so many hours in a day. And as one person, there’s only so much you can do. Your energy becomes the currency. And over time, that becomes exhausting.

I reached a point where I realized I didn’t want to hustle for every dollar anymore. I didn’t want to build a business that only paid me when I showed up. I wanted freedom. I wanted flexibility. I wanted to make income even on the days I was fully in mom mode, snuggling my kids on the couch.

My First Step Into Passive Income (It Wasn’t Fancy)

It started small—almost by accident. I began sharing my editing tools with other photographers. I packaged up my presets (you know, those dreamy film-inspired edits that I love) and offered them as digital downloads.

And then something amazing happened.

Sales started coming in while I was sleeping. Or while I was at the park with my kids. Or while I was working with a client on something completely unrelated.

That shift was the beginning of something much bigger. It was proof that I could build something once—and have it continue to work for me long after I hit publish.

From One Product to Multiple Streams

After that first taste of passive income, I was hooked—but not in the “let’s build an empire” kind of way. It was more about curiosity. I started asking:
What else can I create that helps others, solves a problem, and doesn’t require me to be tied to my laptop 24/7?

I created courses, templates, guides, and most recently, Wordsmith—a monthly digital content membership designed to help business owners show up online with ease. That became a whole new stream of recurring monthly revenue. Not only was it passive, it was purposeful.

And suddenly, my business didn’t feel like a treadmill anymore. It felt like a garden. One I could water, nurture, and watch grow—even if I wasn’t there every single second.

Scaling Without Burnout

The best part of building passive income into your business isn’t just the money (though that part is wonderful, too). It’s the margin it gives you.

It’s the way you can finally exhale.

I no longer have to scramble during launch week. I don’t have to fill my calendar to pay the bills. I get to build, create, dream—and still be present at home. I’ve grown my business year after year without sacrificing the things that matter most to me.

And I’ve been able to do that by focusing on the parts of my business I could automate, scale, and sustain.

So, What Is Passive Income (Really)?

Let’s clear something up—passive income doesn’t mean no work. It means front-loading the work. You create something once (a digital product, a course, a membership, a resource, a software) and you set up systems so it continues to work in the background.

There’s setup. There’s testing. There’s refinement.

But once it’s running? It frees you up to do more of what you love—without the constant grind.

Here are a few examples of passive income that work beautifully for service-based businesses:

• Digital products: templates, guides, checklists, presets, etc.
• Online courses: teach your process, share your knowledge.
• Memberships or subscriptions: recurring income that adds up fast.
• Affiliate marketing: recommend tools and products you love.
• Printables or downloads: easy-to-make, high-value assets.
• Software & Platforms: If you know how to code this is such a perfect skill for generating passive income.

The options are endless—but the mindset shift is what really matters. You don’t have to trade hours for dollars forever.

Why It Matters More Than Ever (Especially for Moms)

As a mom of four, I’ve learned to value time more than anything. My business has to fit into my life, not the other way around. I want to build something that allows me to be there for all our homeschool lessons, the sick days, the slow mornings.

That’s the real power of passive income—it gives you choices.

I get to decide how I spend my time. I get to take on client work because I want to, not because I have to.

I get to run a business that doesn’t burn me out.

My Advice? Start Where You Are

If you’re reading this and thinking, “This sounds amazing, but where do I even start?”—I’ve got you.

Ask yourself:

• What do people ask me for help with all the time?
• What do I already have (a process, a tool, a system) that others would pay for?
• What’s something I could package and sell digitally?

Start with your strengths. Build something small. Get it out there.

And remember—your first product doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be real and helpful.

Building businesses around passive income hasn’t just changed my revenue—it’s changed my life. It’s given me space, peace, freedom, and flexibility. It’s allowed me to grow something meaningful without burning out.

And that’s what I want for you, too.

So if you’ve been hustling in a service-based business and wondering if there’s a different way… let this be your sign to explore what’s possible. Figure out a way to add passive income to your current business.

You don’t have to do it all the hard way. You can build something beautiful that works for you.

I know what it feels like to pour your heart into your business—sleeves rolled up, coffee in hand, dreaming big—but still wondering how you’re supposed to actually get eyes on your product or service. There are a million strategies out there. Everyone has their “secret formula.” And with so many voices telling you to do this or try that, it’s easy to feel like you’re spinning your wheels.

I’ve been there.

And that’s exactly why I want to talk to you about one platform that completely changed how I market my business—and brought in real results without eating up my entire week or sanity.

Yes, I’m talking about Pinterest ads.

And before you write them off as just pretty pictures or a DIY haven (though we do love a good farmhouse table makeover), let me tell you: Pinterest ads are one of the best-kept secrets in digital marketing.

Let’s unpack it.

So… Are Pinterest Ads Worth It?

Short answer: YES.
Long answer: Still yes, but let me show you why.

Unlike Facebook or Instagram—where your ad is trying to interrupt someone’s scroll—Pinterest is where people go when they’re actively searching for ideas, inspiration, or solutions. They’re already in decision-making mode. So instead of fighting for attention, your ad can show up exactly when someone is looking for what you offer.

It’s like having a storefront on Main Street and placing your best-selling product right in the window display—right when the perfect customer walks by.

Why Pinterest Ads Work (Even If You’re Brand New)

What makes Pinterest ads so powerful is how they act more like a search engine than a social feed.

Think about it: People come to Pinterest to plan weddings, design living rooms, start businesses, and yes—shop. They’re already dreaming, already visualizing, already saving ideas for what they want. That means when your ad pops up in a relevant search, you’re meeting your ideal client mid-dream. (Which, let’s be honest, is the best time to show up.)

You don’t need a massive following.
You don’t need to be an influencer.
You just need to have something helpful, beautiful, or inspiring—and a clear idea of who it’s for.

When I launched my content platform, Wordsmith, I wanted to do something different. I didn’t want to rely on reels or TikToks or fight an algorithm that changed every five seconds. I wanted a sustainable way to reach the right people—women like you who are growing businesses and need tools that actually help.

So, I ran Pinterest ads.
And friend, they worked.

The Results I’ve Had With Pinterest Ads

Let’s talk numbers for a second. I’ve used Pinterest ads to help scale one of my businesses (Wordsmith) to over $600,000 in revenue—without spending hours online every day.

The ROI from Pinterest ads has consistently outperformed other platforms for me, and the best part? The pins continue to work for you long after the ad ends. That’s evergreen visibility.

How Pinterest Ads Are Different

Let me break it down real quick:

• Pinterest = Discovery.
  People go there to find things. This is huge because you’re not interrupting their feed—you’re adding to their vision.
• Ads Blend In Naturally.
  A promoted pin looks like any other pin, which means it doesn’t feel pushy or salesy. It feels helpful. Relevant. Wanted.
• Your Results Grow Over Time.
  Even when you stop paying, those pins can keep getting clicks. (Yes, really.)

Not Sure What to Promote First? Start Here.

If you’re brand new to running ads, I always recommend starting with your best-sellers. Something that’s already proven to sell.

One of the biggest mistakes I see is people trying to launch a brand new offer through ads before it’s even been tested. But if something is already working organically—even just a little—it’s a great candidate for a paid ad.

Let your ads do the heavy lifting after you’ve seen that little spark. That’s when it’s worth pouring some gas on the fire.

And If You’re Thinking, “This Sounds Great, But I’m Overwhelmed…”

You’re not alone.

That’s actually why I created my Pinterest Ad Strategy course.
So many of my fellow business friends kept asking me: How do you actually set these up? How do you know who to target? What should the pins look like? I’ve even had friends over to watch me in the office as I walk them thorugh the whole process.

So I pulled back the curtain and recorded exactly how I set up my own campaigns—from strategy to targeting to tracking results.

And I kept it under 90 minutes because I know your time is precious. You don’t need a 10-hour course. You need a system that works.

👉 You can check it out here

If you’ve been looking for a way to grow your business that doesn’t require posting constantly or trying to chase trends, Pinterest ads might be exactly what you need.

They’re gentle. They’re powerful. And they’re perfect for purpose-driven business owners who want to build something sustainable.

So yes, Pinterest ads are worth it.

Not just because they work, but because they work in a way that aligns with how you want to build your business.

Slow, steady, smart.

That’s the kind of growth I’m here for.

There’s something beautiful about sitting down and writing a blog post. Not for likes. Not for the algorithm. But because you actually have something to say. Something you’ve learned. Something that could help someone else.

That’s how I’ve always approached blogging.

Over the years, I’ve come to realize just how much I enjoy writing long-form content. Unlike social media, where I always struggle to keep it short and snappy, long-form content gives me space. Space to think, to explain, to reflect. To share the lessons I’ve learned in building and running a passion-led business—and the ones I’ve learned the hard way.

Pair that with my love for sharing what’s worked (or totally failed) in my own journey, and blogging became my favorite way to show up online. The kind of marketing that feels like storytelling. The kind that lets me connect with the right people for all the right reasons.

But I get it—there’s a lot of noise out there these days.

“Is blogging dead?”

I’ve heard that question more times than I can count. And here’s the truth: it depends on how you define blogging.

If you’re thinking of blogging as writing a post, sharing a few photos, and hoping someone stumbles across it… yeah, that kind of blogging might be on its way out.

But if you’re creating blog content that speaks directly to your ideal client? That answers their questions? That shows them you get what they’re going through and have a solution that can help?

Then blogging is alive and thriving. I think it will continue that way for a long time.

The Power of Evergreen Content

What I love about blogging is that it keeps working long after you hit publish.

A post I wrote 10 years ago still brings in traffic today. A blog that answers a specific question can rank in search results for years. And if you’re someone who wants to build a brand that lasts, blogging is one of the smartest marketing tools you have.

Unlike social media posts that disappear in 24 hours or get buried in the scroll, blogs stick around. They become part of your business’s foundation. They’re searchable. They’re shareable. And they’re yours.

The Rise of AI (and Why Blogging Still Matters More Than Ever)

Here’s something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately:

With AI tools becoming more integrated into how people search for and discover information, your blog content matters more than ever.

Why?

Because the content you create helps teach those tools what your business is all about.

Most people don’t realize this, but AI platforms like ChatGPT, Claude, and others are trained on public content—including blogs.

That means every well-written blog post, every thoughtful article, every long-form guide you put out into the world contributes to how AI understands and recommends information in the future.

So while traditional blogging might feel like a slow burn, the truth is, it’s one of the best long-term plays you can make. You’re not just building traffic or trust with your human audience—you’re shaping your brand’s presence in the digital knowledge space.

And if, like me, you talk a lot about sustainable marketing strategies and running a passion-led business, that content becomes part of a much bigger ecosystem. One where people (and AI) are constantly seeking the most helpful, relevant, and human answers.

So yes—blogging still matters. In fact, it might matter even more now.

How I Use Blogging in My Own Strategy

If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I’m big on building a content funnel that works for you—not one that runs you ragged.

Here’s how I do it:

1. I start with long-form content — always. That’s where I can be the most helpful and detailed.
2. That content goes on my blog, which brings in traffic through SEO for years and years.
3. Then I create Pinterest pins to promote those blog posts (because Pinterest = search engine = long-term traffic too).
4. Next, I choose a few pieces to turn into newsletters for my audience.
5. Finally, I pull quotes and insights to share on social media. (I don’t always do this, as I have moved away from using social media so much).

Instead of making social media the main event, it becomes the last step. A sprinkle on top.

Want to Start Blogging Again (or for the First Time)?

Here’s what I’d say: Start small. Start simple.

Pick a topic you care about. Answer a question your ideal client keeps asking. Tell a story. Share a tip. Talk about something you’ve learned.

Let your blog be a place where your voice doesn’t have to be edited down to a reel or a caption. Where you can teach, connect, and show up fully.

And if you need help? That’s exactly why I built Wordsmith.

Inside the platform, you’ll find hundreds of pre-written blog ideas, categorized by niche and topic. You can generate a full-length blog post in minutes—with your brand voice baked in. Whether you love writing or dread it, Wordsmith helps you create content that feels like you.

It’s one of my favorite ways to help business owners simplify their marketing—and actually enjoy it again.

Want to give it a try? You can test it out with a free 7-day trial. Try Wordsmith here