I’ve seen countless entrepreneurs struggle with the same issue: feeling overwhelmed, short on time, and unsure if they’re truly succeeding. But what if I told you that the problem isn’t your work ethic or your abilities? What if the real culprit is how you’re defining success itself?
The Hidden Pressure of Traditional Success Metrics
When we launched The Business You Really Want podcast, we were flooded with reviews from women entrepreneurs who felt immense pressure to meet traditional success metrics.
These hard-working business owners were caught in a cycle of trying to achieve someone else’s definition of success, often at the cost of their well-being and personal lives.
The truth is, success isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula. What works for one entrepreneur might be completely wrong for another. Yet, we’re constantly bombarded with messages about what success “should” look like: six-figure incomes, rapid scaling, and working around the clock.

Time Crunch: The Entrepreneur’s Constant Companion
Another common theme among our listeners is the perpetual feeling of not having enough hours in the day. As entrepreneurs, we often fall into the trap of believing that if we’re not constantly busy, we’re not being productive or valuable. This mindset leads us to fill every available moment with work, leaving no room for rest, reflection, or unexpected opportunities.
But here’s a radical idea: what if having margin in your schedule is actually the key to greater success and fulfillment?
Redefining Success on Your Own Terms
So, how do we break free from these limiting beliefs and create a business that truly aligns with our values and desires? Here are a few strategies I’ve found effective:
- Question Everything
Don’t blindly accept conventional wisdom about what success looks like in your industry. Take the time to reflect on what truly matters to you and what you want your life to look like beyond just your business.
- Embrace Flexibility in Your Goals
Remember that your definition of success can and should evolve as your life circumstances change. What worked for you two years ago might not be the best fit now. Regularly reassess your goals and make sure they still align with your current values and situation.
- Create Margin in Your Schedule
Start small by intentionally leaving 5-10 minutes of unscheduled time in your day. Gradually increase this margin, allowing yourself to simply be without the pressure of productivity. This space can lead to increased creativity, better problem-solving, and a more sustainable work rhythm.
- Seek True Accountability
Find someone who can provide objective, non-judgmental accountability. This person should be able to offer new perspectives and insights, helping you stay on track with your unique vision of success.
If you want our team as your accountability partner, join the Weekly Course of Action waitlist. Enrollment opens in January, April, July, and October each year.

The Power of Aligned Operations
At the heart of creating the business you really want is aligning your operations with your personal definition of success. This means taking a holistic look at how you run your business, from goal-setting to time management to financial strategies.
When your operations are in sync with your values and desired lifestyle, you’ll find that success becomes less about meeting external benchmarks and more about creating a business that truly fulfills you.
Embracing Your Unique Path to Success
As we’ve explored in our podcast, there’s no one right way to build a successful business. The key is to define success on your own terms and then align every aspect of your business to support that vision.
Remember, it’s okay to want something different from what others are chasing. Your version of success might involve working fewer hours, focusing on impact over income, or finding ways to blend your personal passions with your business goals.
By letting go of external pressures and embracing your unique path, you can create a business that not only thrives but also brings you genuine satisfaction and fulfillment.
Ready to dive deeper into redefining success and aligning your business operations?
Listen to the full episode of The Business You Really Want on your favorite player or watch it on YouTube. Join us as we explore practical strategies for building a business that truly lights you up and supports the life you want to live.
About Your Hosts
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. Known for her unique approach to problem-solving and accountability through the G.E.A.R.S. framework, Gwen empowers clients to achieve their definition of success without sacrificing what matters most.
Tonya Kubo is a marketing strategist and community builder who helps entrepreneurs build thriving online communities. As co-host of The Business You Really Want and Chief Marketing and Operations Officer (CMOO) at Everyday Effectiveness, she keeps conversations on track and ensures complex business concepts are accessible to everyone. A master facilitator with 18+ years of experience in online community building, Tonya takes a people-first approach to marketing and centers the human experience in all she does.