As an entrepreneur, you’ve likely heard the advice “You need better systems!” countless times. Maybe you’ve even invested in fancy project management software or hired consultants to create standard operating procedures. But what if I told you that you already have systems in place — whether you realize it or not?
Systems are simply a collection of behaviors, which few people realize. At least, that’s what Tonya Kubo said during our most recent episode of The Business You Really Want.
Those habits and routines you perform daily without a second thought? Those are your systems.
The problem is, many of these unconscious behaviors could be secretly sabotaging your success.
Uncovering Your Hidden Systems
So how do you identify these invisible systems? Start with something familiar:
When the phone rings, what do you do? There is a system that we all have. We don’t even think about it as a system. But I know when the phone rings, the first thing I do is look. Is it a number that my phone recognizes?
By paying attention to your automatic responses and questioning why you make certain choices, you can begin to uncover the systems already at work in your business.
The Flexibility Trap
One of the most insidious hidden systems plaguing entrepreneurs is what I call the flexibility trap. Many business owners resist formalizing systems because they fear losing the freedom and flexibility that drew them to entrepreneurship in the first place.
However, this desire for constant flexibility can actually hinder growth and efficiency.
Entrepreneurs, particularly solopreneurs, really like flexibility. But the problem is too much freedom and flexibility for anyone, including the owner, means other people can’t start making decisions for themselves, because there’s no way to predict what the owner’s answer would be.
Creating Intentional Systems
The key is finding a balance between structure and flexibility. By identifying which processes truly benefit from flexibility and which could be standardized, you can create intentional systems that support your goals and values while still maintaining creative freedom where it matters most.
Ready to uncover the hidden systems in your business and harness the power of intentional behaviors?
Tune in to the full episode of The Business You Really Want for practical advice on identifying, optimizing, and documenting the behaviors that shape your business operations.
You can listen to the full episode on Apple and Spotify, or watch on YouTube.
Grab pen and paper for this one to note your thoughts on how aligning your systems can get you sustainable success and the business you really want.
About Gwen
Gwen Bortner has spent four decades advising executives and entrepreneurs in 45+ industries. She helps women succeed in business without sacrificing happiness by identifying their true desires and aligning their business functions. She spots overlooked bottlenecks and crafts efficient plans toward sustainable success that center your values and priorities.
