How can I stop holding myself back in business? 9 hidden habits you can fix now
Are You the Biggest Roadblock in Your Business?
Most entrepreneurs blame external factors—lack of time, market conditions, or even social media algorithms—for their business struggles. But what if the real issue isn’t out there? What if the biggest obstacle to your success is you?
The truth is, many entrepreneurs unknowingly sabotage their own growth. In this article, we’ll explore 9 common ways you might be getting in your own way—and more importantly, how to stop.
1. Overthinking Every Decision
Analysis paralysis is real. If you spend more time planning than executing, you’re delaying results. While strategy matters, action beats perfection every time. Start before you feel ready.
Fix It:
Set a 24-hour rule for small decisions and a one-week rule for big ones.
Take imperfect action and refine as you go.
2. Decision Fatigue
Making too many decisions in a day drains mental energy, leading to burnout and poor choices. If you're constantly making small, unimportant decisions, it takes away from your ability to focus on high-impact ones.
Fix It:
Automate or delegate low-priority decisions.
Create routines and templates to reduce daily choices.
3. Wearing Too Many Hats
You can’t do everything alone. If you’re micromanaging every task, you’re limiting your business’s potential and burning yourself out.
Fix It:
Delegate tasks that don’t require your expertise.
Invest in automation tools to streamline operations.
4. Avoiding Sales and Self-Promotion
Many entrepreneurs hesitate to sell because they don’t want to seem pushy. But if you’re not confidently promoting your offers, how will people know you can help them?
Fix It:
Shift your mindset: Selling is serving.
Create a system for consistent lead generation and sales.
5. Not Tracking Your Numbers
If you’re not measuring key business metrics (revenue, expenses, lead conversions), you’re running your business blindfolded.
Fix It:
Start tracking 3-5 key performance indicators weekly.
Use simple tools like Google Sheets or a project management app.
6. Waiting for the ‘Perfect’ Time
There’s no perfect time to launch, hire, or pivot. If you’re waiting for all conditions to be just right, you’ll never make a move.
Fix It:
Set deadlines for major actions and stick to them.
Accept that every stage of business involves risk.
7. Staying Stuck in the Comfort Zone
Growth requires discomfort. If you only do what feels safe, you’re missing out on opportunities to expand.
Fix It:
Challenge yourself to take one uncomfortable action per week.
Surround yourself with people who push you to level up.
8. Not Sharpening Your Axe
If you jump into your work days without a plan, things will always take longer, and you’ll end up wasting your days fighting fires before handling important tasks because they always scream louder.
Fix It:
Plan your days, weeks and months in advance.
Prioritize important tasks over urgent tasks, so you always feel accomplished instead of burnt out.
9. Not Investing in Yourself or Your Business
Trying to grow your business without investing in education, mentorship, or better systems is like expecting a plant to grow without water.
Fix It:
Invest in courses, coaching, or masterminds to fast-track progress.
Upgrade your business tools when needed to improve efficiency.
Final Thoughts: Get Out of Your Own Way
Your business success is in your hands. The more you recognize and address these self-imposed barriers, the faster you’ll see results. Take action today—because the only thing standing between you and your next level… is you.
About The 5 Percent Alliance:
If you’re new here, WELCOME! Hey! I’m Laurie. Founder of The 5 Percent Alliance. And I’m on a mission to lower the small business failure rate across the U.S. & beyond! And I’m looking for the 5% of small business entrepreneurs who are serious about building their dreams, not settling for less & finding the long term success & financial stability they deserve! Read more about The 5% story & our plan to do the impossible HERE.
