When you feel like you’ve hit a wall in your business, what do you do? As an entrepreneur, I understand the importance of staying true to yourself and building a business that you can be proud of. Sometimes, this means taking a leap of faith and pivoting your business in a completely new direction. The fear of making the wrong decision can be paralyzing, but successful business owners make mistakes all the time. Instead of letting that fear take over, they take action and learn from whatever results they get.

And that’s where the power of pivoting comes in.

You see, businesses that survive are those that adapt to change. If you box yourself (and your business) into this idea of what it “should be”, you might be missing incredible opportunities to grow and get the freedom you deserve.

I started my career as a photographer, capturing exquisite moments for others. But as my family grew, I craved flexibility and time freedom that I simply didn’t have. I was nervous about radically changing my career path, but I did it anyway – because it was the RIGHT step for me.

At first, there was a lot I had to learn and mistakes I needed to make as I started creating and selling digital products from my living room. The fear and doubt didn’t compare to the ease and joy I felt going to work each day, knowing that I was building a business I could be truly proud of. Working towards having the freedom to homeschool my kids, or take off for a spontaneous family vacation, or have more time for myself AND my family was worth the risk.

What makes the risk worth taking for you?

Whenever you feel anxious or worried about always making the “right” decision in your business, re-focus on why you’re creating a business. And allow yourself to be nervous, but take action anyway.

Pivoting your business is all about: freedom and flexibility like never before, increased income opportunities, and the chance to wholeheartedly pursue your passions.

Here’s how you start:

Get clear on what you want your life to look like. How do you want to spend your time? Embrace the art of taking calculated risks and exploring new territories. Who around you is already where you want your business to be? Seek advice from those who’ve walked before you.

Pivoting your business can be scary and uncertain, but sometimes the best decisions take us out of our comfort zones. By staying true to yourself and being willing to change, you can build a business aligned with your passions and goals. Looking back, I’m thrilled I had the courage to move in a new direction. I had no idea that in just a few years, I’d achieve my goal: making over a million in passive income.

With every passing year and each product launched, the process of pivoting felt less terrifying and more like stepping towards new horizons. The shift from photography to digital products, to creating Wordsmith, each move was about making a world I believed in. Wordsmith was about helping businesses be authentic online and eases articulating one’s brand message.

The venture into uncharted waters opened up opportunities I hadn’t imagined. Feedback was not just transactions; they were conversations, affirming that authentic communication is vital for a memorable online presence.

Over ten years have passed, and what once felt like risky changes have become achievements. The fear of big decisions has turned into excitement for the next change. Now, the thought of not growing is scarier than facing the unknown.

Each product and interaction is a reminder of the potential in embracing life’s pivots. As I start new projects, my goal remains: to create something meaningful for others and keep exploring new ideas.

Looking back, those big changes were paths leading to a meaningful destination. This journey is wonderful because it’s ever-evolving. I hope as you move on your entrepreneurial road, each change brings you closer to your true goals.

As you set your sights on the next goal or idea, think: What change is waiting for you? Are you ready to face it with courage and an open mind? You won’t know what’s on the other side unless you try.

If you’ve ever run an ad on Facebook or Instagram, you probably know how it goes. The second you stop the campaign, the results vanish. The likes, the clicks, the engagement, they all disappear like they were never there to begin with.

It can feel like pouring money into something with a really short fuse. A flash of visibility, followed by silence.

But Pinterest? Pinterest plays by a different set of rules. And that’s exactly why I love it so much.

Unlike most platforms, Pinterest ads don’t just stop working when your campaign ends. They keep showing up. They keep driving traffic. They keep bringing in sales. Even when your budget runs out.

That’s the magic of Pinterest. And it’s one of the biggest reasons why Pinterest ads work so well. Even after you stop paying.

So let’s talk about how that actually works and why it’s worth paying attention to.

Pinterest Isn’t Social Media. It’s a Search Engine.

This is the first mindset shift you need to make. (and the thing a lot of people get wrong).

Pinterest isn’t really social media. It’s a visual search engine. That means when someone types in “fall capsule wardrobe” or “things to do in NYC,” they’re searching with intention. They’re looking for something very specific.

And the best part? Your ad doesn’t vanish once it’s been seen. It stays on the platform. It keeps showing up in search results. People save it. Share it. Discover it months or even years after your campaign ends.

On most platforms, your ad’s lifespan is measured in hours. On Pinterest, it’s measured in months or more. This is why Pinterest ads work differently. They are actually built to last.

Your Ad Doesn’t Disappear. It Keeps Circulating.

On Pinterest, when someone sees an ad they love, they don’t just click. They save it to their board. That means they plan to come back to it. Or they want to revisit it when the timing feels right.

Once that pin is saved, it continues to circulate. It pops up in other people’s feeds. It reaches new users who are searching for similar things.

I’ve had promoted pins that I ran years ago still bringing in traffic today. Without spending another penny.

That is something I have never experienced with Instagram or Facebook ads. Pinterest has this built-in power of staying relevant long after the promotion ends.

Evergreen Ads Bring Evergreen Results

Let’s say you’re launching something new. Maybe it’s a course, a seasonal product, or a free download. You pour energy into creating beautiful visuals and smart copy. You launch the ad.

On other platforms, you have to keep reposting. You have to fight for visibility all over again every few days.

Pinterest doesn’t work that way.

If your ad is useful and visually appealing, Pinterest will keep it in circulation. People will continue to save it and search for it, even if you’re no longer actively promoting it.

That makes Pinterest the perfect place for evergreen content. Something you create once can keep serving you again and again. That’s a smart strategy. And it’s one of the biggest reasons why Pinterest ads work so well for long-term results.

You Don’t Need a Massive Budget

Another reason I always recommend Pinterest ads? They’re affordable.

You don’t need a massive budget to get started. You can test campaigns with five or ten dollars a day and still see traction.

Better yet, your money works harder for you. Because the content you promote continues to get seen and shared long after your budget is used up. You’re not paying just for a moment of attention. You’re investing in content that sticks around.

If you’ve ever felt nervous about running paid ads or worried you wouldn’t get a return, Pinterest is a great place to start. It’s low pressure, high potential, and very forgiving compared to other ad platforms.

Pinterest Is the Quiet Power Player in My Business

Over the years, I’ve seen platforms rise and fall. I’ve chased the algorithm. I’ve burned out trying to keep up with social media. And every time I step back, guess what continues to work quietly in the background?

Pinterest.

It’s not flashy. It doesn’t demand daily posting or dancing reels. But it works. Steadily. Consistently. Predictably.

Pinterest ads have helped me grow my email list, sell digital products, promote blog content, and increase traffic to my website. All with way less stress and far more staying power than anything else I’ve tried.

That’s why I always tell people Pinterest is worth learning. Once you understand the platform, it becomes a tool that works for you around the clock.

Even when you take a break.

Even when the campaign is over.

Ready to Try Pinterest Ads?

If you’re tired of throwing money at ads that vanish the minute you stop paying… If you’re done with chasing quick wins and want something that actually lasts… Then Pinterest ads might just be your next smartest move.

They work differently, and that difference is what makes them powerful.

I created a course that walks you through exactly how to set up and run Pinterest ads that continue to perform even when your campaign is done. No fluff. No overwhelm. Just a strategy that makes sense for the long haul.

👉 Grab my Pinterest Ad Strategy course here

Let’s build something that keeps working for you long after you hit pause.

I think we all do this in our own way. For me, it’s my website. No matter how many other things are on my to-do list, I always find myself going back to tweak, rearrange, or rewrite something on there. It doesn’t matter that it’s already functional or that the last update was just a week ago. Something about it keeps pulling me back in.

Maybe it’s because Showit makes it so easy. Maybe it’s my creative brain trying to convince me that it’s a “productive” use of time. Or maybe, deep down, it’s because perfecting it feels safer than moving forward.

The funny thing is, in every other area of my business, I’m usually great at staying focused. I love crossing things off a list. I love building systems that keep me moving. I don’t often get stuck in indecision.

But when I talk to friends or clients, I’ve realized this is something a lot of people struggle with. The difference is, most of the time, they don’t even realize they’re stuck.

They just keep going back to the same task over and over, telling themselves it’s not ready yet. That one more tweak will make it better. That with a little more time, it’ll finally feel right.

As someone who’s wired to move forward, I wanted to understand this better. Because if so many smart, capable women are getting caught in this loop… what’s really going on?

Is This You, Too?

Have you ever reopened a finished project just to fix “one more thing” (or worse re-do the whole dang thing just because)?
Do you find yourself constantly reworking content, offers, emails, or designs you’ve already marked as done?
Are you waiting for the moment when it finally feels perfect enough to share?

You’re not the only one.

What you might not realize is that what feels like fine-tuning can actually be a form of resistance. It’s perfectionism in a cozy sweater. It’s fear pretending to be focus. And it might be holding you back more than you think.

In this post, I want to unpack why we get stuck in this loop, how it quietly chips away at our progress, and the mindset shift that helped me finally break free from it.

A 2022 study published in the Journal of Behavioral Decision Making found that over-analyzing decisions leads to more stress, lower confidence, and reduced satisfaction. Even when the outcomes are better. Which means the more you go back to something, the less peace you’re likely to feel about it.

Let’s change that.

Why We Keep Going Back

It might seem like a small thing, but the tendency to revisit a task over and over can seriously slow your growth as an entrepreneur. And most of the time, it isn’t about the task itself.

Here’s what might actually be going on:

1. It feels safer than starting something new
Launching a new offer? Pitching a client? Sharing something vulnerable on social media? All of that comes with uncertainty. Going back to what’s familiar feels like work, but it’s actually avoidance.

2. You care a lot (and that’s beautiful)
You want it to be right. You want it to reflect your heart. You want it to make an impact. That level of care is a gift, but if it turns into over-editing, it can start to steal your momentum.

3. You’re stuck in a loop of self-doubt
If you’re constantly questioning whether something is good enough, you’ll never feel ready to release it. That loop can disguise itself as being detail-oriented when really it’s about confidence.

4. You’re addicted to the feeling of “almost ready”
The in-between can be comforting. It’s the space where you can keep creating without being exposed to feedback. But staying there too long prevents the real growth that comes from sharing your work.

The Mindset Shift That Set Me Free

I had to ask myself one day, while staring at my website’s homepage for the fiftieth time—what am I really looking for here?

Was I trying to make it better? Or was I trying to avoid moving on?

That was the aha moment. I wasn’t editing because something needed to be fixed. I was editing because I didn’t want to deal with the next step.

When I realized that, everything changed.

I gave myself a rule: “Once it’s 90 percent there, it’s done.” Not because I don’t care—but because I care enough to share it before I overthink it to death. And honestly? That decision alone saved me hours every single week and helped me show up with more confidence.

How to Break the Loop (For Real This Time)

You don’t need more coffee or color palettes. You need clarity, courage, and a plan. Here’s how I’ve helped myself (and my clients) actually move forward:

Set a “Done” Boundary

Before you even start a task, decide how many times you’ll revisit it. Give yourself two rounds of revisions. Or set a firm deadline. When you have a stopping point, it’s easier to resist the urge to keep circling back.

Use the 90 Percent Rule

Perfection is the enemy of done. If it’s 90 percent solid and you’re just fussing over little tweaks, it’s time to call it complete. That last 10 percent often costs you more time and clarity than it’s worth.

Ask: “What Am I Avoiding?”

Every time you go back to a project that’s technically finished, pause and ask what the real reason is. Are you afraid to launch? Nervous about feedback? Naming it is the first step in breaking the pattern.

Create a Safe Space for Imperfection

Set a future date for updates. Instead of trying to perfect everything now, plan to revisit it in 90 days. This gives your brain peace of mind, and gives your work room to breathe.

Focus on Forward Motion

When in doubt, move on. That doesn’t mean rushing, it means trusting. Forward motion is where clarity, feedback, and growth live. Don’t wait until something’s flawless to let it be seen.

Give Yourself Permission to Be Done

Here’s the thing. Some of the most impactful work I’ve ever put out into the world was not perfect. But it was honest. It was helpful. And it was shared.

That’s what people need from you. Not more polish. More presence. More truth. More of you, showing up as you are, right now.

So if you’re stuck in the loop, of redesigning, rewriting, or revisiting something that doesn’t need your energy anymore, let this post be your sign to move on.

Tired of Going in Circles? Billi Was Built for This.

Okay… shameless plug incoming. But only because it fits so perfectly.

If this loop feels familiar, constantly circling the same tasks, trying to keep your business organized in your head or across five different apps, I want to introduce you to something we just launched and are ridiculously excited about.

It’s called Billi, and it’s the CRM I wish existed when I started.

Billi is simple, clean, and actually helpful. It keeps everything… clients, invoices, contracts, bookings, and more, in one place so you can stop spinning your wheels and finally move forward.

It wasn’t born from a desire to build a big tech company. It was born out of our real-world need for a tool that makes running a business easier. And honestly? We nailed it.

No monthly fee. Just a tiny 1% of your invoices. That’s it.
Built by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs.
No fluff. Just the features you actually use.

If you’re tired of circling the same systems and just want something that helps you do the work and get on with your life, Billi might be exactly what you need.

Come check it out (and be one of the first to use it): www.hellobilli.com

Because moving forward in business shouldn’t feel so complicated.
And with Billi—it won’t.

There was a time in my business when I believed I needed to be everywhere, all the time. Posting daily on Instagram, replying to comments within minutes, managing busy Facebook groups… the social media hustle was nonstop. And truthfully? It was exhausting. Most business owners (including me at some point in the past) hope to grow a bigger audience on social media. They think, their sales will increase, launches will sell out, and all their marketing problems will be solved.

But something happened. I started looking closer at where my sales were actually coming from. The analytics behind my business. And surprise, it wasn’t social media.

Are Followers Really the Key to Success?

Have you ever felt like your success is tied to your follower count? Like if your social media presence doesn’t blow up, then your offers won’t either? Or you think that those that have the massive followers on social media, somehow know how have an easier time to create sold out offers?

What if I told you that the most successful launches I’ve ever had came from email lists with fewer than 1,000 people?

And what if the key to a sold-out offer wasn’t more visibility, but deeper connection?

This post will walk you through how I’ve built some of my best sale days and offers without relying on social media and how you can too. You’ll learn the tools I use (spoiler: email lists and Pinterest play a big role), the mindset shifts that helped me stop chasing followers, and why sustainable marketing always wins.

Why Smaller Email Lists Can Outperform Big Followings

Here’s the thing. Social media is loud, crowded, and constantly changing. One algorithm shift can tank your reach. One viral post doesn’t always translate into sales. But building your own list? That’s an asset you own.

Your email list is the only direct line you have to your audience without any middlemen. You’re not at the mercy of an app deciding whether or not your content is shown. You hit send, and it lands in their inbox.

And guess what? You don’t need 10,000 people to make a living. You probably just need 100 solid customers or clients.

Let’s Do the Math: You Don’t Need 10,000 Followers

Let’s break it down for a second. If you have an offer that’s $200 and 50 people buy, that’s $10,000. If it’s $500 and 20 people buy, that’s the same. Most of us don’t need a massive audience. We just need the right people in our corner.

When you start seeing your goals in numbers instead of followers, things get a lot clearer. You realize that what you’re building is possible and within reach.

How I Shifted from Social to Sustainable Marketing

Over the years, I started paying attention to the backend. I noticed that my evergreen blog content, optimized for SEO and paired with Pinterest traffic, was driving more consistent sales than anything I did on social media.

At first, it felt strange to pull back from platforms that had helped me grow. Social media was how I built my early audience. But I also knew I was tired. Tired of chasing visibility. Tired of feeling behind. I wanted strategy over noise. I wanted long-term growth instead of temporary wins.

So I pivoted.

The Simple Tools That Changed Everything

I started spending more time on:

• Writing valuable blog content that lives on forever
• Building opt-ins and funnels that convert
• Pinning my content on Pinterest (which, by the way, is a visual search engine, not a social media platform)
• Emailing my list with content that actually connects

And I watched my business shift into something stronger, more sustainable, and honestly, a lot more fun.

5 Practical Steps to Build a More Sustainable Business

1. Build an Email List

Stop waiting for the perfect time or the perfect lead magnet. Start collecting emails now. Even if you only have 20 people, those 20 people cared enough to say yes. That’s huge. Write to them. Serve them. Sell to them. That’s your core.

2. Map Out a Realistic Sales Goal

Instead of chasing vague success, get clear. How many sales would it take to hit your goal? Break it down. Most of the time, the number is smaller than you think. And when you see how possible it really is, it gives you momentum.

3. Create Evergreen Content that Works While You Sleep

These are pieces of content that live longer than a 24-hour Instagram story. Invest time in creating resources that show up in search results and answer your audience’s questions. That’s what SEO is all about.

4. Use Pinterest as a Long-Term Traffic Source

Pinterest is a game-changer because it’s not a social app. It’s a search engine. Your pins can drive traffic for months, even years, after you post them. It’s one of the top traffic drivers to my site, and content I pinned years ago still performs.

5. Shift Your Strategy to Play the Long Game

Social media might be flashy and fun, but it shouldn’t be your whole marketing plan. When you stop relying on constant output and start building assets that compound over time, your business becomes less fragile and more freeing.

You Don’t Need to Be Everywhere Just in the Right Places

This is your reminder. More followers aren’t the goal. Strong strategy and the right audience are.

Stop measuring your success by your reach, your likes, or your comments. Start focusing on what actually moves the needle.

Permission to Do It Differently

I get it. It’s tempting to think that more followers will equal more sales. That once your content blows up, then you’ll be able to hit your goals.

But here’s the truth. You don’t need a huge audience to build a thriving business. You need the right audience. A strategy that works for you. And the confidence to build a business that doesn’t rely on being online 24/7.

If you’ve felt burnt out by the pressure of social media, try something different. See for yourself how you can turn your marketing strategy into a plan that actually works consistently.

Start where you are. Use what you have. Build slowly, intentionally, and strategically.

It usually starts like this: A simple idea pops into your head while you’re making lunch or folding laundry or trying to fall asleep. It doesn’t shout. It doesn’t beg. It just quietly returns, again and again. “What if I tried this?” That’s how it’s always been for me.

Over the years, I’ve launched multiple businesses, products, services, each born from nothing more than a passing idea and a willingness to try before everything was perfectly figured out.

Some flopped. Some flourished. One quick launch I nearly dismissed as “too simple” ended up bringing in over $684,000 in revenue. (Yep, really.)

The common thread? I didn’t wait until everything was polished. I started before it felt “ready.”

But here’s the thing: when we hear people say “start before you’re ready,” it sounds inspiring—but also kind of vague. What does that actually look like? For me, it looked like publishing a sales page I wasn’t 100% sure about. It looked like launching without all the bells and whistles. It looked like trusting my gut more than my inner critic. The common thread? I didn’t wait until everything was polished. I started before it felt “ready.”

Do You Have an Idea That Won’t Leave You Alone?

Maybe it’s a digital product you know your audience needs. Maybe it’s a shift in your services that would bring your work closer to what lights you up. Or maybe it’s something completely new.

But then the voice creeps in: You don’t have it all figured out yet.

If you’ve been stuck in idea limbo, wondering when you’ll finally feel ready—this post is for you. I want to share what I’ve learned from taking messy action, launching without guarantees, and letting real-world feedback shape my path.

Because the truth is, starting your business before you’re ready might just be the smartest thing you ever do.

The Story: When I Almost Didn’t Launch

A few years back, I had an idea for a super simple digital product. It wasn’t flashy. It wasn’t complex. Honestly, I didn’t think it was anything groundbreaking. I was simply trying to solve a problem I myself kept having as a business owner. I figured, worst case, I’d end up with the problem solved. Best case, there might be other business owners struggling with the exact same thing—and I could help them too.

But something told me to try it.

So I put it out into the world.

No fancy funnel. No massive social media following. Just a good offer that solved a real problem, paired with a Pinterest ad and an email to my small-but-loyal list.

That product went on to generate $684,000 in revenue.

And what still amazes me is that I almost didn’t launch it at all.

When I first launched the idea, it was built in the scrappiest way possible. I didn’t want to waste time, so I used a simple course platform to host the content, dropped in the materials, and opened it up as a membership. That was it. There wasn’t a fancy dashboard or custom design. I was just curious to answer one question: Were people actually interested? I figured I could polish and expand the idea later.

It wasn’t until we hit $11,000 in sales that I started building the full site and dashboard for it. I had put so little effort into the launch intentionally—I just needed proof of concept. And that clarity made all the difference.

The Shift: Action Creates Clarity

That experience (and many others like it) taught me something huge:

You can’t learn what your business needs until it exists.

The market will tell you what’s working. Your audience will tell you what they love. And your gut? It will sharpen with every step you take.

But none of that happens if the idea stays in your notebook.

When you start before you feel ready, you give your idea a chance to breathe. And when it breathes? It grows. Maybe not exactly the way you imagined—but often in ways far better than you planned.

And while I’ve definitely had launches that fell flat or ideas that never quite landed, the ones that did? They changed my life. Not because they were perfect—but because they were real.

What Helped Me Start Before I Felt Ready

Here are a few mindset shifts and strategies that helped me (and might help you too):

1. Treat It Like a Test

Instead of thinking about it as “launching a new (business, service, product” think of it as running an experiment. Experiments can change. They can grow. They don’t need to be perfect. They’re simply a starting point.

2. Use What You Already Know

You don’t need to start from scratch. What have you learned from your past work, your audience, or your own experience? Build on that. Leverage it. Pull from the wins and the failures. They’re both valuable.

3. Create the Simplest Version First

What’s the bare minimum version of this idea? Create that. Get it out. Then improve it later based on real feedback. Perfection is a moving target—start with good enough.

4. Focus on the Person You Want to Help

When fear creeps in, shift your focus to the person who needs what you’re creating. Let them be your why. If your offer helps just one person, it was worth it.

5. Expect Imperfection

Your first version won’t be your final version. And that’s a good thing. Give yourself the gift of iteration. Make it better as you go. Just get started.

6. Set a Small, Doable Deadline

Give yourself a realistic deadline to launch. Not one year from now—think one month. Keep it light. Keep it doable. But commit.

7. Celebrate the Start

Even if no one else sees the effort it took, you know. Celebrate the courage it takes to start. That step is often the hardest—and the most powerful.

What Could That Look Like for You?

If you’ve been sitting on an idea, unsure whether it’s time to act—this is your sign. That idea came to you for a reason. Don’t let overthinking bury it.

Start before you’re ready. Trust the messy middle. Know that the best clarity often comes after the action.

The only way to know if it works? Is to finally just go for it.

My husband and I have worked on more projects together than I can count. He’s the lead developer behind everything I dream up. The one who translates all my wild, messy, inspired ideas into something real. We’ve built businesses side by side, taken long car rides just to brainstorm, and stayed up late many nights bringing our shared visions to life.

But the truth is: we’re total opposites.

I’m the carefree, million-ideas-a-minute type. I have paintbrushes and half-finished projects scattered around the house. I thrive in the beginning stages—in the energy of a new idea, the possibilities, the vision. I am Type B to my core. Entrepreneur through and through.

And he’s the guy who loves simplicity. Order. A step-by-step process. One task at a time. He wants someone to tell him exactly what needs to be done and when. Military-trained, logical, a Type A realist.

He brings structure. I bring spark.

Together? We somehow make it work beautifully.

The other day, I came to him with a new idea. I was buzzing with excitement, ready to bring it to life, and his immediate reaction was, “You can’t just do that.”

I smiled and said, “Why not?”

That conversation stuck with me. Because it sums up the difference between how we think—and also how I believe so many of us are conditioned to think when it comes to building a business.

My husband’s mindset makes sense in many contexts. Rules, order, expectations. A framework that helps people move safely through the world.

But entrepreneurship? That’s different.

Entrepreneurship taught me something that took me years to realize: The rules don’t apply. And if they do? You can change them.

There’s no single path to success. No universal playbook. No secret formula that works the same for everyone. You get to build the business that fits you.

Let’s take something as seemingly straightforward as pricing.

My husband would start by researching competitors. He’d study market trends. He’d analyze, assess, and carefully position his offer based on logic and industry standards.

Me? I price based on instinct.

I think about what the offer is worth. I think about what feels right in my gut. And most importantly, I think about how I want to feel delivering that product or service. Energized? Valued? Confident?

I don’t really care what others charge for the same thing.

Because I’m not building someone else’s business. I’m building mine.

One of the greatest myths in business is that there’s a right way to do it.

You don’t need permission to pursue your dream. You don’t have to follow industry norms if they don’t align with you. You don’t have to grow the way someone else did, or market the way they do, or price like the rest of the field.

That’s the freedom of entrepreneurship.

You get to write your own rules.

And sometimes, yes—you’ll meet resistance. Someone will say, “You can’t just do that.”

But that’s when you smile and ask, “Why not?”

Because the moment you start playing by your own rules, everything changes. You begin creating from truth, not fear. From alignment, not comparison. From courage, not conformity.

Working with my husband has taught me so much about balance—and about honoring the value in both perspectives. His structure helps bring my ideas to life. And my belief in possibility helps stretch his idea of what’s possible.

But at the heart of it all is this shared truth: the best businesses are the ones that reflect the people behind them.

So if you need a reminder today: You’re allowed to do it differently. You’re allowed to do it your way. You’re allowed to trust your gut, follow your heart, and believe in the ideas that light you up.

You don’t need a rulebook.

You just need the courage to ask yourself: “What if I can?”

And then go out and prove 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.

March flew by in a blur of gym days, steady strides, and more than a few proud moments. What stood out most? Not just the mileage milestones—but the mindset shift. Even though I hit some exciting new goals this month, I also gave myself permission to slow down a bit and enjoy the process. I showed up consistently, even if that meant just a simple 3-4 mile run. I honored my need for rest, taking two days off each week. It wasn’t about chasing big numbers every day—it was about building a rhythm I could stick with.

One of the biggest highlights? Long run Fridays.

It’s the one day I get to run in the morning instead of the evening, and I made it count. This month, I set a goal to run 10 miles without stopping—and I actually did it! (Still smiling about it!)

I had a total of three long runs in March. The first time, I simply focused on running for two hours straight and ended up hitting 9 miles. For the second and third runs, I locked into a steady 5.5 MPH pace and was able to finish 10 miles just under the two-hour mark.

Now, if you’re a seasoned runner reading this, you might think, “Okay, not a huge deal.” But for someone who just started running three months ago?

It feels like a huge deal.

I’m learning how to maintain a slower pace for longer stretches—and that’s been a game-changer. I’m not ready for a marathon just yet, but the fact that I’m hitting mile 10 already? It gives me so much hope that I’m on the right track.

I’ve got my sights set on 13 miles in April (yep, a half marathon distance!). The tricky part is that I’m limited to a two-hour window at the gym—my little ones get to hang in the kid area while I work out—so I have to fit all of my training into that time slot.

Also worth mentioning: I’ve done all of my running so far on a treadmill. I know, I know—some runners absolutely hate the treadmill. But honestly? It’s been a great training ground for me. It’s helped me learn how to pace myself, focus on my breathing, and feel totally safe while working out. Now that the weather is starting to warm up, I’d love to test out some longer runs outside and see how that feels compared to running indoors.

If I had to sum up March in a sentence, I’d say it was about being consistent with the small stuff—and brave with the big stuff. I kept showing up on the short runs, and I pushed myself when it mattered most.

For April, I’m keeping the same game plan: shorter runs between 3-5 miles during the week, and longer Friday runs where I work toward that 13-mile milestone.

Let’s see what this next month brings!

Content Prompt: I wish more people knew that [insert lesson or truth about your industry]. After working with [clients/customers], I’ve learned that this one thing changes everything. Let me walk you through it—because this might be the shift you’ve been needing.

Copywriting Formula: Story + Teaching Moment

This formula blends personal storytelling with powerful takeaways. It lets you share something meaningful you’ve learned from your work, offer a new perspective, and gently guide your audience toward the next step.

It’s less about pushing a product, and more about pulling back the curtain on your expertise—in a way that feels human, helpful, and rooted in real experience.

Why It Works:

People love a good story—especially when it teaches them something new. This formula helps you connect the dots between what you’ve learned and what your audience needs to hear. It builds trust, adds value, and positions you as someone who knows their stuff and genuinely cares.

Sharing a lesson with a “this changed everything for me (and it can for you too)” energy makes your content both educational and deeply relatable.

Wordsmith Instructions:

Write a [Social media, newsletter, blog post] that shares something you wish more people understood about your work, your industry, or the transformation your clients experience. Start with a real story or example, add a helpful insight, and wrap it up with a CTA that encourages your audience to take the next step.

First time using Wordsmith? You’re in for something good. Wordsmith takes your message and turns it into content that sounds just like you (without you having to spend hours writing it yourself). Just drop in this prompt, share some details about your business, and let Wordsmith do its thing—helping you create content that feels true to your voice and super clear for your audience.

How to Use This Prompt:

• Start with a story or reflection. What’s something you wish people understood before working with you?
• Teach the lesson. What truth or insight has come from your real-life experience?
• Relate it back to your offer. How does this insight connect to what you do?
• Invite action. End with a call to take the next step (whether that’s booking, buying, or just learning more).

Information Needed About Your Business:

To use this prompt well, think about:

• What’s a belief or mindset your audience might be stuck in?
• What do you wish they understood before working with you?
• How has your own experience shaped this insight?
• How does your service or offer provide a better way?

This prompt works best when it comes from the heart. Let it be honest, helpful, and rooted in real-life moments your audience can see themselves in.

Example Post Using This Prompt:

I wish more people knew this before creating content: You don’t need to reinvent the wheel every time you show up online.

So many business owners believe they have to be wildly original or start from scratch every time they write a post. But after years of writing for my business (and hundreds of clients), I’ve learned that consistency and clarity matter way more than constant reinvention.

That’s why I created Wordsmith. To give you a foundation—a starting point—a weekly content prompt that helps you know exactly what to say, and why it works.

Every prompt comes with guidance, strategy, and the tools to make it work for your business. You can write it yourself, or let Wordsmith build it out for you—from social posts to newsletters to full-blown blog content.

When content stops feeling so hard, you show up more. And when you show up more? Your business grows.

Ready to finally feel good about your content strategy? Let Wordsmith take it from here. Sign up here

It’s Monday morning. You sit down with your coffee, open your laptop, and realize you have no clue what to post this week. You scroll Instagram for inspiration, peek at what other people are doing, and before you know it, your time is gone—and you still haven’t posted.

Sound familiar?

Friend, it doesn’t have to be this way.

One of the most powerful shifts I ever made in my business was learning how to batch my content—and not just a few days at a time. I’m talking about building an entire month’s worth of content in just one afternoon.

Let me show you exactly how I do it. (You can apply this strategy to anything; Social media, your blog, newsletter.)

Step 1: Decide How Often You Want to Post

We’re not aiming for “post every single day or you fail.” We’re aiming for consistency you can actually stick to.

For those wanting to focus on social media, I think every other day works well.

That’s about 15 posts a month. Enough to keep your business visible and your message strong without making content your full-time job.

Step 2: Define Your Content Pillars

These are the categories your brand talks about regularly—the foundational themes that reflect what you do and who you help.

Think of them like buckets. Every piece of content you create will fall into one of these. Here are a few common examples to get your wheels turning:

• Educational (Teach something your audience needs to know)
• Inspirational (Share your journey, behind-the-scenes, or a mindset shift)
• Connection (Ask a question, tell a story, start a conversation)
• Promotional (Talk about what you sell, how to work with you, and why it matters)
• Testimonial/Social Proof (Share wins, feedback, or results from clients)

Pick 4-5 that feel right for you. These will guide everything.

Step 3: Brainstorm 3 Ideas for Each Pillar

If you have five content pillars and you write down three ideas for each, guess what?

That’s 15 content ideas—your whole month planned.

Let’s break down 15 post ideas—3 for each pillar—that any business owner can adapt to fit their niche:

EDUCATIONAL

1. 3 mistakes to avoid when [doing something your audience regularly does]

2. How to [solve a challenge your ideal client faces every week]

3. One quick tip that helped me [save time / save money / get better results]

INSPIRATIONAL

4. That one time I almost gave up on [your work] and what pulled me through

5. A behind-the-scenes look at [a recent launch, tough decision, or lesson learned]

6. A story about a client who [saw real change or growth with your help]

CONNECTION

7. Here’s why I started my business (and what I’d tell the old me now)

8. A little note for anyone who’s feeling [an emotion your audience resonates with]

9. This or that: [Coffee or tea? Early bird or night owl? Let’s chat!]

PROMOTIONAL

10. Want to [insert specific transformation]? Here’s how to work with me

11. One of my favorite wins from a recent client (and how we got there)

12. A sneak peek of [your product, offer, behind-the-scenes development]

SOCIAL PROOF

13. A reminder that results take time—and I’m proof of what’s possible

14. Sharing a sweet note from [a client or follower]

15. A review of [your product/service] that made me smile

You’ve just taken 15 ideas and turned them into dozens of content pieces. Without staring at a blank screen or trying to be clever at the last minute.

Step 5: Follow a Content Funnel That Works

Here’s what my content funnel looks like:

1. Blog: This is where my content lives first. It’s SEO-friendly and brings in long-term traffic.
2. Pinterest: Each blog post becomes 4+ pins that continue driving traffic long after they’re posted.
3. Newsletter: I pull two posts per week to share via email (one of them is my Weekly Content Prompt!).
4. Social Media: Select content from the blog makes it to social.

The focus is always on platforms that work harder for me long-term. I put my energy where I get return—and that isn’t always Instagram.

Want This Done For You?

Inside Wordsmith, we’ve built this process into the platform. You get a built-in content plan that maps out over three years of content ideas—categorized, organized, and ready for you to use.

You can pick a content idea, see how it fits into your strategy, and generate a blog post, newsletter, and social caption in seconds. It’s content creation, simplified.

Want to see it for yourself? You can sign up for a free 7-day trial and give it a spin. Try Wordsmith here

You don’t need to work more. You just need a better plan.

Building a month’s worth of content doesn’t have to take weeks, and you don’t have to do it alone. When you work smarter (not harder) and use tools that support your creativity, you get your time and your clarity back.