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.

Let’s talk about Pinterest ads—the not-so-secret weapon I’ve used to quietly and consistently scale my business without relying on algorithms or going viral. I know paid ads can feel a little intimidating (or a lot), especially if you’ve never dipped your toes into that world before. I used to feel the same way. Ads felt like something reserved for “big” businesses with teams and fancy strategies… until I realized Pinterest was playing by completely different rules.

If you’re new to Pinterest ads—or maybe you’ve heard a whisper about them and want to see what the buzz is really about—this post is for you. I’m going to walk you through exactly how Pinterest ads work, why they’re different from social media ads, and how they could be the sustainable traffic-driving, sales-generating strategy you’ve been looking for.

Let’s dive in.

What Makes Pinterest Ads So Different?

Here’s the thing most people don’t realize: Pinterest isn’t a social media platform—it’s a search engine.

Let that sink in for a second.

While Instagram and Facebook are built for interaction and connection, Pinterest is built for discovery. People come to Pinterest not to scroll for entertainment, but to find things.

To plan. To dream. To search for inspiration or a solution.

And that mindset changes everything when it comes to advertising.

Think of it like this: Pinterest is where people go with intention.

They’re already searching for ideas—recipes, outfit inspiration, home design, content strategies, wedding decor, business tips… and yes, even the exact products and services you offer.

So when your ad shows up on Pinterest, it doesn’t interrupt someone’s day like an Instagram ad might. Instead, it joins the journey they’re already on. It becomes part of their vision board. And that’s powerful.

So… How Do Pinterest Ads Actually Work?

Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible.

When you run a Pinterest ad, you’re essentially paying for your pin (a visual post) to show up in front of people who are searching for content like yours. Here’s what that process looks like:

1. Create a Pin (Ad Image or Video)

This is the creative part! You’ll upload an image or video—ideally something that’s scroll-stopping, helpful, and aligned with your brand. You can add a short headline and a link to your website, product, service, or blog post.

2. Choose Your Audience (AKA Targeting)

Here’s where the magic happens. Pinterest allows you to target based on keywords—the search terms your dream customer is typing in. This is what sets it apart from most social platforms. You can also target people who have:

• Interacted with your website
• Engaged with your pins
• Or fit certain interests, locations, or demographics

You’re putting your content exactly where people are looking for it.

3. Set Your Budget

You get to decide how much you want to spend. Seriously—you can start with just $5 a day and see what works. Once you start seeing results, it’s easy to scale up. (I’ve had days where I spent $11 and made over $400. Wild, right?)

4. Track & Optimize

Pinterest gives you a dashboard where you can see how your ads are performing. Which pins are getting clicks? Which ones are converting? You can pause, adjust, or duplicate ads based on what’s working. It’s like having your own little marketing lab.

Why Pinterest Ads Work So Well (Especially for Small Businesses)

I’ve run ads on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest—and here’s why Pinterest continues to win in my book:

• Longevity: Pinterest pins last. Even after you stop paying for an ad, that pin continues to live on the platform and gain organic traction.
• Search Intent: You’re targeting people actively looking for your offer.
• Less Saturation: Pinterest ads are still underutilized, which means your competition is probably sleeping on this.
• Budget-Friendly: You can start small and scale based on what’s converting.
• Perfect for Evergreen Offers: Courses, memberships, digital products, and even services with strong value can thrive here.

My Journey with Pinterest Ads

When I started using Pinterest ads, I was honestly just testing the waters. I uploaded a few prewritten captions I had sitting on my laptop and ran a small ad to see if anyone would bite. Spoiler: they did.

That one test led to building a platform called Wordsmith—my all-in-one content creation tool for business owners who want done-for-you strategy, writing prompts, and personalized support to show up online.

And yes, Pinterest ads helped scale Wordsmith to over $600,000 in revenue (without posting on social media every day).

I realized I had found a way to build something meaningful—without chasing algorithms or needing to be constantly “on.”

So… Where Should You Start?

If you’ve been curious about Pinterest ads, here’s my honest opinion: they’re one of the best places to start if you’ve never run an ad before. Why? Because:

• You’re placing your ad in front of people already searching for what you offer
• It doesn’t require a big budget
• You’re not dependent on having a huge social media following

And if you’re wondering what you should promote first, I always recommend starting with your best-selling offer—not something new or untested. Promote what already works.

Want Me to Show You How to Set It Up?

So many of my business friends were asking how I ran my Pinterest ads that I decided to record the entire process—from choosing the creative to targeting, tracking, and optimizing. I walk you through the exact steps I take to build ads that convert—and I kept it under 90 minutes because I know your time is precious.

If you’re ready to learn how to run your own ads, but want someone to actually show you the behind-the-scenes—this is for you.

👉 Grab the Pinterest Ad Strategy here

Running Pinterest ads changed everything for me. It gave me a way to grow without burning out. A way to scale without needing to show up online every single day. A way to connect with people who were already searching for what I offer.

And maybe, it’ll do the same for you.

For the last several years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of helping over 12,000 passionate business owners with their content—whether through one-on-one client work or through Wordsmith, the platform I built from the ground up to help entrepreneurs like you show up and share what they do in a way that actually connects.

And here’s the truth: you can learn a lot when you’ve been behind the curtain that many times.

Whether it’s writing a single Instagram post or mapping out a full-blown yearly strategy, you start to see patterns. You start to see what works and what doesn’t. You start to see the difference between content that fills space and content that moves people.

You also start to see where entrepreneurs get stuck—and friend, it’s usually not because they don’t care enough. It’s usually because they’re wearing too many hats and trying to juggle everything on their own.

So today, I want to share a few lessons I’ve learned from writing content for hundreds (okay, thousands) of businesses—big and small, scrappy and seasoned, across nearly every industry you can imagine.

And more importantly, I want to tell you how all of that wisdom has been poured into Wordsmith—so that you can finally create content like a pro, even if you’re doing it all yourself.

Lesson #1: Great Content Isn’t Just Pretty Words

You’d be surprised how many people think great content means perfect grammar, the right buzzwords, or some clever hook.

But the best-performing content I’ve ever written? It’s not the one that sounds the fanciest. It’s the one that sounds like you.

Real connection comes from storytelling. From owning your voice and speaking directly to the person you want to help.

When I’m writing content—whether it’s for one of my premium clients (those are my full-service, high-touch marketing strategy clients)—or whether I’m crafting content for Wordsmith, I’m not trying to write like a copywriting robot.

I’m writing like a real person who understands the brand, the voice, the mission, and the heart behind it.

Because that’s what converts. Not the flash, but the feeling.

Lesson #2: The Most Ignored Content Is Often the Most Important

Want to know what type of content gets skipped the most?

It’s not the reels or the captions or the carousels. It’s the emails. The blog posts. The long-form content that feels like “too much work.”

But that’s also the content that does the heavy lifting in the long run.

Blog posts bring in organic traffic. Newsletters build real relationships. Strategic content that lives beyond 24 hours? That’s the stuff that creates sustainability.

I’ve seen it over and over again—people pour all their energy into social media, only to feel like they’re on a content treadmill. The real magic happens when you create content that lasts.

Which is why Wordsmith was built to support more than just social media captions. It’s built to help you plan out your blog, your email list, your SEO content, and your long-term strategy—so you’re not just showing up, you’re showing up smart.

Lesson #3: People Click (and Buy) When They Feel Understood

You want the secret to content that converts?

It’s empathy.

When people feel seen, they trust you. When they trust you, they listen. And when they listen? That’s when the magic happens. That’s when they buy.

The most successful content I’ve written hasn’t been the boldest, trendiest, or most “viral-worthy.” It’s been the content that reflects someone’s inner thoughts back to them in a way that feels safe and honest and hopeful.

So when I created Wordsmith, I didn’t want it to sound like AI wrote it. I wanted it to sound like you. Like someone who knows exactly what their audience is going through and can meet them there with the right words.

Because when your content feels personal, it is powerful.

Lesson #4: You Don’t Have to Do It All Alone

Let me be honest for a second: most of the people I work with—especially my premium clients—are really good at what they do.

They’re photographers, coaches, wellness practitioners, designers, artists, and educators. They’ve built businesses that are so aligned with their purpose…

But almost every single one of them has told me some version of this:

“I just don’t know what to say online.”

“I want to show up more, but content takes so much energy.”

“I don’t have the time to write something meaningful every single day.”

“I just want to focus on the thing I love, and let you handle all the content.”

And that’s where I get to come in. That’s where Wordsmith comes in.

Because you don’t need to outsource your entire brand voice to a copywriter. And you don’t need to keep guessing what to post each week.

You just need a clear strategy, a little support, and a tool that helps you put your ideas into words that actually work.

What Makes Wordsmith Different?

It’s not just a tool—it’s a system, built from the heart.

Wordsmith is where all these lessons I’ve learned over years of writing and refining and testing content strategies come to life. It’s filled with real prompts, real examples, and done-for-you content that feels like you wrote it on your best day.

And the best part? It works for any kind of business because it focuses on connection first.

You don’t need to sound like everyone else. You just need to sound like you, consistently.

If you’ve ever wished someone could just swoop in, read your mind, and write the words you meant to say… that’s what Wordsmith is for.

We’ve had over 12,000 business owners sign up so far—and I built it for people just like you.

You can test it all out with a free 7-day trial, and see exactly how easy it is to create content that feels aligned, strategic, and true to you.

Try Wordsmith for Free →

You’ve got something amazing to share. Let’s help you say it—beautifully.

Want Me to Handle It For You?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or simply ready to hand over your content and marketing strategy to someone who gets it—I’ve got you.

Every year, I take on a very small number of private clients for full-service content and marketing support. Think: your content planned, written, and executed by someone who’s not only a writer and strategist, but a business owner who’s walked this road herself—multiple times.

You wouldn’t just be hiring someone who knows how to write content or build a plan… you’d be hiring someone who’s built and grown her own businesses from the ground up. Someone who understands the demands, the decisions, the juggling act—because she’s living it too.

I’ll bring the exact strategies, proven workflows, and sustainable systems I’ve used to grow my own brands (including Wordsmith) to your business. You’ll get content rooted in SEO, a long-form-first approach, and a plan that makes marketing feel manageable again.

If that kind of partnership sounds like what you need, reach out. I only take on a few of these projects each year—and only when it feels like the right fit on both sides.

Content Prompt: If you’ve been stuck in the cycle of [specific problem], I see you. It’s frustrating. It’s exhausting. And it’s not your fault. But what if it didn’t have to be this hard? With [your service], you don’t have to keep spinning your wheels. I’ll help you [specific benefit] and finally move forward.”

Copywriting Formula: PAS (Problem – Agitation – Solution)

One of the most effective formulas for copy that connects is PAS. Why? Because it leads with empathy.

We start by identifying the problem your audience is facing—something that makes them nod their head and say, “Yep, that’s me.” Then, we agitate the pain a little—reminding them what it feels like to sit in that struggle. And finally, we offer the solution—your service, your offer, your expertise. It’s not just a pitch; it’s a hand reaching out saying, “I’ve got you.”

It works because it’s human. It’s honest. It shows your audience that you get them before you try to guide them.

Why It Works:

People take action when they feel understood. PAS shows your audience that you know exactly where they are, what they’re dealing with, and what’s possible on the other side. It turns the conversation from “here’s what I do” to “here’s how I can help YOU.”

It’s not about painting a doom-and-gloom picture. It’s about validating their experience and being the person who’s willing to offer a better way.

Wordsmith Instructions:

Write a blog post that speaks directly to a common struggle your audience is facing. Use PAS to identify the pain point, stir the emotion behind it, and show how your service offers real relief. Keep it heartfelt and honest. End with a CTA that gently invites them to take the next step.

New to Wordsmith? Think of it like your behind-the-scenes copywriting BFF. You feed it a weekly content prompt (like this one!) and a little info about your business, and it turns those ideas into polished blog posts, newsletters, or social media captions that sound like you. No guesswork, no burnout, just beautiful content in minutes.

How to Use This Prompt:

• Start with the problem. What’s something your audience is stuck on or struggling with right now?
• Lean into the emotion. Describe how that problem makes them feel. What does it stop them from doing?
• Offer the solution. Show them how your service changes that experience.
• Invite them in. Wrap it up with a warm, clear CTA.

Information Needed About Your Business:

To use this prompt effectively, get clear on:

• What’s a struggle your audience regularly faces?
• How does that struggle make them feel? What does it cost them?
• How does your service specifically solve that problem?
• What is the next step they can take to work with you or learn more?

Once you have these pieces, you’re ready to write content that feels less like selling and more like showing up to serve.

Example Post Using This Prompt:

Let’s talk about something a little uncomfortable…

That feeling of staring at a blank screen, knowing you need to post something for your business but having zero idea where to start? It’s real. And it’s not just you. So many entrepreneurs—even the seasoned ones—feel paralyzed when it comes to creating content.

You want to show up consistently. You want to say the right things. But between everything else on your plate, content often gets pushed to the back burner.

Here’s the truth: it doesn’t have to be this way.

That’s why I created Wordsmith. So that instead of overthinking every caption, blog post, or email, you have a clear path forward. You get a weekly content prompt (like this one!) and everything you need to turn it into meaningful, on-brand content that actually connects with your audience.

Less stress. More clarity. Way more confidence.

Let’s finally take content creation off your mental load. Sign up today and let Wordsmith help you share what you do in a way that feels easy and true.

A few weeks ago, I started working with a new client—someone who, like many of us, has been wearing all the hats in her business. She’s passionate about what she does, incredibly talented, and deeply committed to serving her people. But when we started talking about her marketing strategy, I heard it in the voice: that familiar sound of burnout.

She was tired.

Tired of trying to keep up with the trends. Tired of throwing content out into the void and hoping it landed somewhere meaningful. Tired of wondering if what she was doing was even working. And most of all? Tired of trying to do it all on her own without any real support.

She was at a point where the constant hustle had worn her down. She didn’t want to keep running in circles, working around the clock. What she wanted was to learn how to slow down, to build something that felt sustainable instead of stressful.

And honestly? I’ve been there, too.

There was a time when I thought marketing meant chasing whatever was trending that week, showing up daily on social media, and constantly spinning my wheels just to stay visible. I thought that if I wasn’t doing all the things, I was falling behind. And let me tell you: that approach doesn’t just lead to burnout—it leads to disconnection.

What I love about working with clients on their marketing strategy is getting to take a step back with them. Zooming out. Looking at the big picture. There’s something incredibly powerful about bringing in a fresh set of eyes—someone who isn’t deep in the day-to-day of your business. When you’ve been doing this work for so long, it’s easy to become blind to the parts that aren’t working as well as they could be.

But from the outside? Those gaps are often obvious. And with a little distance, clarity starts to form. We start to see where the energy is leaking, where the opportunities are waiting, and how to bring it all back into alignment.

Because the truth is, the most effective marketing doesn’t come from reacting. It comes from intention.

The Power of a Long-Term Marketing Strategy

When you build your business around a long-term marketing plan, you gain something most entrepreneurs are desperate for: clarity.

Instead of waking up every morning wondering what to post or scrambling to get content out the door, you know exactly what you’re working toward. You have a path. You’re not winging it—you’re following a plan that supports your vision and your life.

And the best part? You don’t have to rely on short-term bursts of energy or viral moments to keep your business going. You build momentum instead of burnout.

Where I Start With Every Strategy

Whether I’m working with a client or mapping out my own quarterly goals, I always start in the same place:

What are we actually trying to build here?

Are we trying to grow a community? Launch a new offer? Drive more email sign-ups? Book more high-ticket clients?

Once we know the goal, we reverse-engineer the strategy. We ask:

• What content supports this?
• What platforms are best suited for this message?
• Where does our ideal client hang out, and how can we meet them there?

Think Beyond Social Media

Let’s be honest. Social media can feel like a full-time job in itself. And while it has its place in a solid marketing strategy, it should never be the whole thing.

When you rely only on short-form content that disappears in 24 hours or gets lost in the algorithm, you’re constantly hustling to stay visible. But when you build your strategy around content that lasts—like blog posts, email marketing, and search-friendly platforms like Pinterest—your marketing works for you even when you’re not actively creating.

That’s what I mean by marketing for the long haul.

What a Sustainable Strategy Looks Like

Here’s a peek at the kind of strategy I help my clients build (and what I follow myself):

Start with a big picture business strategy.

• Think about your business goals, offers, and what you want to build over the next 3, 6, or 12 months.
• Create a few key business content categories (like content pillars) that align with these goals.

Brainstorm your content by category.

• For each category, make a running list of content ideas—these can be blog posts, newsletters, educational pieces, behind-the-scenes shares, or client success stories.

Create your content schedule.

• Plan out your content by month and week so you’re not scrambling to create on the fly.
• If you want to create two pieces a week, you’ll end up with around 104 strong pieces of content for the year—more than enough to stay consistent and visible.

Follow a content funnel that prioritizes long-term platforms.

• For me, that looks like this: Blog (for SEO and long-form evergreen content) → Pinterest (to generate consistent traffic) → Newsletter (to deepen connection and drive sales) → Social Media (as a repurposing tool).
• The key is to put the most effort into the content that lasts the longest and works the hardest for you over time.

Automate and repurpose.

• Use scheduling tools, batch your content, and set up email sequences that nurture your audience without needing to be online every day.
• Turn one piece of content into five with intention—just like that, your marketing becomes smarter and more sustainable.

Track results and refine.

• Review analytics monthly and take note of what’s working, but don’t get lost in the numbers. Let data guide you, not control you.

Make space for rest.

• When your content is working in the background, you get your time back. Take a break, go outside, spend time with family—your business will keep growing.

When the Plan Brings Peace

I’ll never forget the moment my client said, “I finally feel like I can breathe.”

We had just mapped out three months of content, aligned with her business goals, set to be repurposed across multiple platforms. No guessing. No scrambling.

Just clarity, and confidence.

And that is what a good marketing plan should give you.

Ready to Create a Strategy That Supports You?

You don’t need to be everywhere. You don’t need to do all the things. You just need a marketing plan that supports your vision and leaves room for your life.

If you’re tired of the hustle and ready to find more ease in your business, start by asking yourself:

• What do I actually want to build?
• Where does my audience actually find me?
• What kind of content do I enjoy creating?

Let those answers lead you.

Because the most sustainable marketing strategy isn’t the one that gets you quick likes. It’s the one that lets you build a business you actually love to show up for.

And that? That’s marketing for the long haul.

You know what makes my day? Celebrating those small wins that feel like a big deal—like when I see an entrepreneur take one tiny step that completely changes their momentum. These little moments lead to massive change, and today, I want to remind you just how powerful those small wins truly are.

Big Success Is Built on Small Wins

We recently launched Version 2 of Wordsmith, and while it was an exciting milestone, I can’t help but look back on all the tiny moments that led us here. It’s easy to focus on the big victories—the major launches, the big revenue milestones, the growth. But the truth? It’s the small, daily steps that made those big wins possible.

There were so many moments where I felt like I was moving slowly. Where progress felt like it was taking forever. I run my business while being a stay-at-home mom to four amazing kids—two of whom we homeschool, and two who are still in the stage where they need me every minute of the day. Some days, I felt like I wasn’t getting enough done. Other days, I saw small sparks of progress that reminded me I was on the right path.

So today, I’m pausing to celebrate. This big milestone? It’s really a collection of all the tiny bits of work that stacked up over time. Every late-night brainstorming session, every email sent, every test run—all of it led to this moment.

Your Small Wins Matter (More Than You Think)

Maybe for you, it’s finally hitting ‘publish’ on that blog post you’ve been sitting on. Or sending an email to a potential client. Or setting up that sales page. These might seem like minor steps, but they add up. Each time you take action, even if it feels small, you’re building momentum toward something bigger.

A few ways to start stacking those wins:

• Write down one thing you accomplished today—even if it’s small.
• Recognize the effort behind your work, not just the end result.
• Celebrate progress, not just completion.

Why Celebrating Small Wins Helps You Stay Motivated

When we focus only on the big picture, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The finish line can seem so far away that we forget to acknowledge how far we’ve already come. But when you start celebrating small wins, something incredible happens:

1. You build momentum. Every small win is proof that you’re making progress, which keeps you moving forward.
2. You stay motivated. Seeing progress, even in tiny increments, fuels your motivation to keep going.
3. You shift your mindset. Instead of feeling like you’re always chasing success, you start seeing that you’re already succeeding.

Think about it—if you only allow yourself to celebrate when you hit the “big goal,” you’re robbing yourself of so many moments of joy and motivation along the way.

Small Wins Are the Foundation of Every Major Success Story

It’s easy to look at successful entrepreneurs and assume they had some big breakthrough moment that changed everything. But if you dig deeper, you’ll find that every success story is built on small, consistent actions.

The bestselling author didn’t write their book in one sitting—they wrote a little bit every day. The six-figure business owner didn’t build their empire overnight—they showed up consistently, refining their strategy as they went.

Every successful entrepreneur you admire? They started with small wins. And if they can do it, so can you.

How to Create a Habit of Celebrating Small Wins

If you’re ready to make this a habit, here’s how to start:

1. Keep a Daily Win Journal

Each day, write down one small win. It could be as simple as “sent an email to a new lead” or “wrote the first paragraph of my blog post.” Over time, you’ll see how much progress you’re making.

2. Share Your Wins With Others

There’s something powerful about saying, “Hey, I did this today!” Whether it’s a business friend, a mastermind group, or even your audience on social media—sharing your wins helps reinforce their importance. Something I would like to do is share these little wins more online. I usually just share them with my husband or sister.

3. Reward Yourself Along the Way

Set up mini-rewards for hitting small milestones. Maybe after completing a week of consistent work, you treat yourself to your favorite coffee. Maybe after finishing a project, you take an afternoon off. Rewards make progress feel fun and exciting.

4. Shift Your Focus From “Done” to “Progress”

Instead of only celebrating when something is finished, start acknowledging the steps it took to get there. You don’t have to wait for the big moment—celebrate the little moments along the way.

If you’re like me, you probably don’t stop often enough to reflect on how far you’ve come. We get caught up in what’s next—the next launch, the next goal, the next step. But today, I want you to do something different:

Pause. Breathe. Take a moment to tell yourself how proud you are of the work you’ve done.

Success isn’t just about the big moments; it’s about the tiny ones that got you there. Keep stacking those wins, and before you know it, you’ll be looking back at how far you’ve come, too.

If you’ve ever hesitated to launch a new product, delayed offering a service, or held back from putting yourself out there because it “wasn’t quite ready yet,” you’re not alone. Perfectionism in business is real, and it’s one of the biggest things holding so many entrepreneurs back. Whether it’s waiting for the perfect website, the flawless branding, or the ideal timing, perfection keeps so many from actually moving forward.

But here’s the truth: imperfect action will always outperform perfect ideas that never leave your notebook.

I used to believe that every business decision had to be meticulous. Every product launch had to be flawless. Every offer had to be built out completely before I could share it with the world. And you know what? I wasted so much time trying to make things perfect that I often missed the moment.

When I finally let go of perfection and focused on just launching, my business started growing faster than ever. I started learning in real time, tweaking as I went, and getting invaluable feedback from real customers—feedback I never would have gotten if I was still sitting on an “almost ready” idea.

So if you’ve been waiting for everything to be just right before taking the next step in your business, this is your permission slip to just launch it.

Why Imperfect Action Wins Every Time

1. Momentum Beats Perfection

Your business doesn’t need perfect—it needs momentum. Success comes from taking action, adjusting as you go, and learning from what actually works instead of what you think might work.

Some of the most successful businesses didn’t start with a perfectly polished offer—they started by getting something out into the world, then refining it based on real-world feedback.

You can’t improve what doesn’t exist.

2. Your Customers Don’t Need Perfect—They Need Solutions

Think about it—when was the last time you bought something because it was “perfect”? You likely made the purchase because it solved a problem or made your life easier.

Your ideal customer isn’t sitting around waiting for your business to have the perfect website, the perfect branding, or the most polished product. They are looking for solutions to their problems. The faster you launch, the sooner you can help them.

3. Speed Gives You an Advantage

While others are still tweaking and perfecting their offers, I already have my first version live, gathering real feedback, bringing in sales, and improving based on actual data. Speed is often the deciding factor in gaining traction.

I’ve always been a pro at launching things before they’re “ready.” My goal isn’t perfection—it’s to get my ideas out there so I can refine them with my customers and clients. The best businesses don’t start with perfection; they start with a first version that gets better over time.

4. Done is Better Than Perfect (And More Profitable)

I can’t tell you how many entrepreneurs I’ve met who have brilliant ideas but never act on them because they’re afraid they’re not “ready.”

Meanwhile, someone else with half the experience is out there launching, promoting, and making money simply because they’re willing to put themselves out there.

If you’re waiting for everything to be perfect, you’re missing out on sales, opportunities, and momentum. The most successful businesses are the ones that start before they’re ready.

How to Let Go of Perfectionism and Start Taking Action

If you’re struggling with perfectionism in your business, here’s how to shift your mindset and start showing up with confidence.

Step 1: Set a Deadline and Stick to It

Perfectionism thrives on endless tweaking. If you don’t set a deadline, you’ll always find another reason to delay. Set a firm launch date and commit to it.

Here’s the trick: Treat your launch like an appointment with a client. You wouldn’t cancel on them last minute because you needed “just one more tweak,” right? Hold yourself to that same standard.

And if you’re worried that things won’t be perfect? They won’t be—and that’s okay. The key is getting started and improving as you go. You can always refine later.

Step 2: Launch With a Minimum Viable Offer

Instead of waiting until everything is built out, start with a simple, functional version of your product or service. Your audience doesn’t need all the bells and whistles on day one; they need something that delivers value.

A minimum viable offer (MVO) helps you:

• Validate your idea without months (or years) of work.
• Get real customer feedback early on.
• Make adjustments based on what people actually want—not what you think they want.

Waiting for perfection before launching usually results in over-building, over-complicating, and over-spending. Keep it simple. Get it out there. Improve as you go.

Step 3: Test and Iterate

The most successful entrepreneurs don’t launch once and call it a day. They launch, test, tweak, and improve. This cycle is the secret to long-term success.

Here’s how you can apply this:

• Run a beta version of your offer and gather feedback.
• Look at real-world data—what’s working, and what’s not?
• Adjust your pricing, messaging, or delivery based on customer responses.

Remember, iteration is what turns “good” into “great.” But you can’t iterate on something that doesn’t exist. Get it out there first, then refine it.

Step 4: Trust the Process

The first version of anything will never be perfect. And that’s okay. Trust that you’ll learn, grow, and improve only by taking action.

Think of every big success story—you won’t find a single entrepreneur who got everything right from the start. What you will find is someone who was willing to start messy, learn quickly, and keep going.

Your business is no different.

If you’ve been stuck in the perfectionism cycle, let this be the sign you need to break free.

You don’t need to be perfect to be successful. You just need to be consistent, real, and willing to take action.

So, take a deep breath, trust yourself, and just launch it. Whether it’s a new product, a service, or a big idea—done will always be better than perfect.

If you’ve ever felt exhausted trying to keep up with social media trends just to stay visible, let me introduce you to one of the BEST platform for passive sales: Pinterest. Unlike Instagram, where your posts disappear into the void within a day (or even hours), Pinterest works differently.

It’s not a social platform like most everything thinks—it’s a search engine. That means the content you post today has the power to bring in sales weeks, months, even years down the line.

And that, my friend, is the kind of marketing I can get behind.

How Pinterest Works Differently From Social Media

Most social media platforms are designed to keep people engaged on the platform itself—endless scrolling, short-lived posts, and constantly shifting algorithms. Pinterest, on the other hand, is designed to send people off the platform to find what they’re looking for.

Think of it like this:

• Instagram = Content disappears fast. You have to keep posting to stay relevant.
• Pinterest = Content builds over time. One pin can send traffic to your site for years.

Why Pinterest Is Perfect for Passive Sales

Here’s the magic of Pinterest—it connects buyers to your business at the exact moment they’re looking for a solution.

Think about how people use Pinterest. They’re searching for inspiration, ideas, and things to buy. Whether it’s a Lightroom preset, an online course, or a physical product, they’re already in the mindset to take action.

This is why Pinterest drives some of the highest-converting traffic compared to other platforms. People aren’t just scrolling mindlessly; they’re searching with intent—and when your product pops up as the solution? That’s when the magic happens.

How I Use Pinterest to Make Passive Sales

Step 1: Optimize Your Website for Pinterest Traffic

Before you even start pinning, make sure your website is ready to convert visitors into customers.

• Create clear landing pages for your products, services, or freebies.
• Have an email opt-in to capture leads from Pinterest traffic.
• Use strong CTAs (calls to action) that guide visitors toward making a purchase.

Step 2: Create Pins That Drive Clicks

Pinterest is a visual platform, so your pins need to be eye-catching and click-worthy.

Here’s what works for me:

• Bold, easy-to-read text overlays.
• Text heavy pins (My audience loves these kinds of pins!)
• High-quality images that stand out in the feed.
• Vertical (2:3 ratio) graphics for better visibility.
• Clear descriptions that include relevant keywords.

At the bottom of this blog post, you’ll see four Pinterest pins I designed for this article. I built this into my site using Showit, so I don’t have to waste time designing new graphics from scratch. I simply screenshot them and upload them to Pinterest!

Step 3: Pin Consistently

Unlike social media, where you have to post multiple times a day to stay relevant, Pinterest rewards consistency over time.

→ Pin 5-10 times per day (mixing your own content with curated content).
→ Work Pinterest into your workflow. With every article I write, it gets pinned to Pinterest. Since I publish multiple articles a week, I am constantly creating new pins.
→ Keep your boards organized and niche-specific. Content that’s not relevant to my work, I put into secret boards.

Step 4: Run Pinterest Ads for Passive Sales

This is where things get exciting. If you really want to scale your passive income, Pinterest ads are a game-changer.

I’ve personally scaled my business using Pinterest ads without relying on social media. My best-performing ads have been running for over two years with no changes—and they’re still bringing in daily sales.

If you’re curious about how to set up Pinterest ads the right way, I teach my exact system in my Pinterest Ad Strategy Course. It’s a 90-minute training that walks you through how to set up high-converting ads, target the right audience, and get sales on autopilot.

Check it out here: Pinterest Ad Strategy Course

Final Thoughts: Why Pinterest Should Be Part of Your Marketing Strategy

If you’re tired of constantly having to show up, create, and post on social media just to stay visible, Pinterest is your answer.

It’s a long-term marketing strategy that helps you attract customers without the burnout. Once your pins are out there, they keep working for you—bringing in traffic, leads, and passive sales without the constant effort.

Using Pinterest organically is a great start to get some traction, but if you’re ready to speed up the process even faster, my Pinterest Ad Strategy Course is here to show you exactly how to do it. I break down the entire system step-by-step so you can start running profitable ads with confidence.

If you had told me years ago that SEO would become one of my favorite parts of my marketing strategy, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. Like so many entrepreneurs, I thought social media was the way to grow. I spent hours creating content, chasing trends, and trying to keep up with ever-changing algorithms—all in the hopes that my next post would reach the right people.

But then I started paying attention to something different: search engines. I realized that while social media posts disappear within hours or days, a well-written blog post, optimized for SEO, could bring me consistent traffic for years.

Now? Thousands of people find my business every single month—without me having to post on social media every day. And I’m going to show you exactly how you can do the same.

Why SEO Works (Even If You Don’t Have a Big Audience)

One of the biggest myths I believed early on was that I needed a huge following to make an impact. But the truth is, SEO works for everyone, no matter the size of your audience. Why? Because when people search for something on Google or Pinterest, they’re already interested in that topic.

They’re looking for solutions—which means they’re way more likely to become your next customer.

Here’s the beauty of SEO:

• It’s not about being popular—it’s about being searchable.
• It works 24/7, even when you’re not online.
• You create content once, and it keeps bringing in leads for months (or even years).

Unlike social media, where your content disappears into the void, SEO helps people find you exactly when they need you.

How I Use SEO to Attract Thousands of Visitors Every Month

I didn’t wake up one day magically ranking on Google. I had to be intentional about my strategy. Here’s exactly what I did to make SEO work for me—and what you can do too.

Step 1: Create Content That Solves a Problem

Think about your ideal client or customer. What are they struggling with? What questions are they asking? What solutions are they looking for?

Before I write anything, I always start by brainstorming content ideas that directly help my audience. Some of my best-performing articles are based on real questions I’ve been asked over and over again.

💡 Action step: Make a list of 10–15 common questions or problems your audience has. These will become the foundation of your SEO strategy.

Step 2: Use the Right Keywords

Keywords are what help people find you on Google. They’re the words and phrases people type into search engines when looking for something specific.

For example, if someone is searching for “how to write better Instagram captions,” I want my content to include that exact phrase so Google knows my article is relevant.

💡 Action step: Use a free tool like Google’s Keyword Planner to find keywords your audience is searching for. Then, include those keywords naturally in your blog posts, headlines, and descriptions.

Step 3: Optimize Blog Posts for Search

It’s not just about writing a great blog post—you also need to format it in a way that Google loves. Here’s how I do it:

• Use clear, keyword-rich headlines (like the one at the top of this article!)
• Break up your content with subheadings and bullet points to make it easy to read
• Include internal links to other relevant blog posts or pages on your site
• Write a strong meta description (the short summary that appears in Google search results)

💡 Action step: Go back through your existing blog posts and optimize them using these tips.

Step 4: Use Pinterest for Extra SEO Power

A lot of people forget that Pinterest is a search engine too. It’s not just a social media platform—it’s a powerful way to get long-term traffic to your site.

Every time I publish a new blog post, I create 4 Pinterest pins for it. That means more chances for people to find my content and click through to my website. And the best part? Those pins can keep driving traffic for years.

💡 Action step: Start using Pinterest as part of your SEO strategy. Create multiple pins for your blog posts and link them back to your website. If you scroll all the way to the bottom of this article on my site, you’ll see the 4 pins I design for every article. I built this into my site using Showit, which means I don’t have to waste time designing pins—I just take a quick screenshot of these 4 images and use them as my Pinterest pins.

Step 5: Build an Email List from Your SEO Traffic

Getting traffic to your website is great—but what happens next? I use SEO not just to attract visitors, but to turn them into subscribers and customers.

Every blog post I write includes an invitation to join my email list, where I share exclusive tips, content, and offers. That way, when people find me through search, they don’t just leave—they become part of my community.

💡 Action step: Add a simple email opt-in to your blog posts. Offer a free resource (like a guide or checklist) in exchange for their email.

What SEO Has Done for My Business

Since focusing on SEO, here’s what’s changed:

→ I no longer stress about social media algorithms. SEO brings in consistent traffic, no matter what’s trending.

→ My website gets discovered by thousands of new people every month. And I don’t have to “go viral” to make it happen.

→ I get sales and email subscribers on autopilot. People find my content, read it, and sign up without me having to be online 24/7.

And the best part? SEO keeps working long after I hit publish.

If you’ve been relying only on social media to grow your business, let this be your reminder: there’s a better way. SEO allows you to create content once and reap the benefits for months or even years.

So if you’re tired of feeling like you have to hustle just to stay visible, start focusing on SEO. It’s one of the smartest investments you can make for your business.

I used to believe that if I just followed the latest trends, my marketing would magically fall into place. That if I jumped on the latest viral sounds, participated in every trending challenge, and crafted my content to match what the algorithm wanted, I’d finally see the results I was chasing. But after years of playing that game—posting, adjusting, and constantly feeling behind—I realized something big:

Trends come and go. But your brand? It deserves a strategy that feels timeless.

Before I took a whole year off from social media, marketing felt like a never-ending to-do list. There was always something new to keep up with. A new format. A new platform. A new strategy that someone swore was the “game-changer.”

But when I stepped away, something beautiful happened—I realized that my business was going to be just fine without it.

That realization changed everything.

Why Chasing Trends Isn’t a Marketing Strategy

When I look back on my time before stepping away from social media, I see just how much I was creating for the platform instead of creating for my business. I wasn’t focusing on what actually worked for me—I was focusing on what was working for everyone else.

And that’s where so many entrepreneurs get stuck.

Trends give the illusion that if we just hop on board at the right time, our business will explode. But here’s the truth: chasing trends is like running on a treadmill—you’re constantly moving, but you’re not actually getting anywhere. Sure, you might get a quick spike in engagement, but what happens when that trend fades? You’re left scrambling to find the next big thing, repeating the cycle over and over again.

The biggest shift happened when I stopped looking at trends as a strategy and started looking at them as tools—things I could use occasionally, but not things I needed to depend on for success. And when I made that change, I found myself creating content that actually felt good, content that didn’t feel forced or rushed, but instead felt aligned with the vision I had for my business.

How I Built a Marketing Plan That Felt Like Me

When I took a full year off social media, I didn’t stop marketing—I just started doing it differently.

Instead of spending hours trying to craft posts that would perform well on social media, I asked myself a different question: What kind of marketing actually makes sense for me?

I thought about the parts of my business that were already working and leaned into them even harder. I wrote longer-form content because I love writing, and I knew that my best clients were the ones who took the time to read my words. I doubled down on my email list because I wanted a direct connection with my audience—one that didn’t disappear because of an algorithm change. I focused on SEO and Pinterest because I wanted my content to work for me for months, even years, instead of fading away in 24 hours.

And it worked. The more I leaned into the strategies that actually aligned with my strengths, the easier marketing became. I didn’t feel the pressure to keep up with trends because I was building something that would last beyond them.

How to Build an Authentic Marketing Plan That Works for YOU

If you’ve ever felt drained by trying to keep up with the latest marketing trends, I want you to know that you don’t have to. There’s another way. A way that feels lighter, more aligned, and most importantly—more sustainable.

1. Ask Yourself What You Actually Enjoy Creating

Marketing is only effective if you actually do it consistently. And consistency is impossible when you’re forcing yourself to create content you don’t enjoy.

So take a step back and think about what comes naturally to you. Do you love writing? Start a blog or a weekly newsletter. Do you enjoy talking? Maybe a podcast or video content is the way to go. Does storytelling excite you? Focus on platforms that allow for deep, meaningful connection, like long-form captions or email sequences.

Marketing doesn’t have to be about squeezing yourself into a box that doesn’t fit. It should feel like an extension of who you are.

2. Focus on Long-Term Visibility, Not Just Quick Wins

One of the biggest lessons I learned when I stepped away from social media was how much more powerful long-term visibility is compared to short-lived engagement. When you create content that is built to last—like SEO-optimized blog posts, evergreen email sequences, or Pinterest-friendly content—you’re setting yourself up for marketing that continues working for you long after you hit publish.

Instead of constantly feeling like you have to churn out more and more content just to stay relevant, imagine creating something once and having it bring in new leads for months or even years. That’s the power of long-term marketing.

3. Show Up for the People Already Here

One of the biggest marketing myths is that you always need to be chasing more—more followers, more engagement, more views. But here’s the thing: the people who are already following you? They are the ones who are most likely to buy from you.

Instead of focusing all your energy on trying to attract new people, what if you poured that same energy into nurturing the ones who are already here? Reply to their emails, engage with them in your DMs, send them valuable content that makes them feel seen. The strongest businesses aren’t built on a massive audience—they’re built on deep connections with the right people.

4. Ditch the Need for Virality

For years, I thought that if I could just create one viral post, everything in my business would change. But do you know what I realized? Virality isn’t a business strategy—it’s luck.

Going viral might get you a surge of new followers, but if those people aren’t your ideal clients, it won’t translate to actual business growth. Instead of chasing viral moments, focus on consistent, intentional growth—because that’s what leads to sustainable success.

Stop Playing a Game You Don’t Even Want to Win

Looking back, I realize how much time I wasted trying to “win” at social media when I didn’t even want to play the game.

Now? I create what I want, when I want, in a way that feels authentic and sustainable.

And that’s the secret—marketing doesn’t have to feel exhausting. You get to build a strategy that fits your business, not what’s trending. So let this be your permission slip to stop chasing every new thing and start creating a marketing plan that actually feels good.

Because at the end of the day? Trends fade. But your business is here to stay.