You’re not failing. You’re not behind. And you’re not alone.
I know this not only because I’ve worked alongside entrepreneurs and business owners for decades — but because I’ve started, grown, and navigated my own businesses. I’ve lived the excitement of growth, the pressure of responsibility, and the moments where progress quietly slowed and I couldn’t immediately see why. One thing experience has taught me is this:
“We only learn what we bump into.”
Experience shifts perspective — and that perspective helps us make better decisions the next time.
Businesses rarely stall because their owners lack commitment or capability. They stall because growth introduces blinders, blind spots, and obstacles that aren’t always visible from inside the business.
Growth creates new demands. And when those demands outpace clarity, structure, or decision support, progress slows — sometimes subtly, sometimes abruptly.
The good news is that most small businesses stall at the same three growth points. Once you recognize where you are, you can move forward with far more confidence and far less overwhelm.
Stalling Is Not a Breakdown — It’s a Signal
Growth tends to happen in stages, and each stage asks something different of the business owner.
Growth Point #1: The Founder Bottleneck
- Everything starts running through you — decisions, problems, priorities, pressure. Over time, it becomes weight.
Growth Point #2: Lack of Strategic Clarity (Not Lack of Ideas)
- Opportunity feels abundant, but focus is scattered. Strategy only works when built on clarity, not urgency.
Growth Point #3: Outgrowing Informal Systems
- What once felt flexible becomes fragile. Tools alone don’t solve structural problems.
The Common Thread: Growth Reveals Blind Spots
Growth reveals blind spots faster than most entrepreneurs expect. The instinct is to push harder — but that often narrows perspective.
What helps is slowing decision-making, creating clarity before action, introducing structure that supports judgment, and not growing alone.
Where do I Fit Into This Journey?
My role is to act as a sounding board — someone in your corner who understands the terrain and helps you see what’s hard to see from inside the business.
A Moment for Reflection...
Which growth point feels closest to where you are right now?
What would change if clarity came before action?
It's ok if you don't know where to start. Here is a Self-Assessment to get you started with the right questions.
Ready for the Next Step?
If you’re looking for a structured way to work through these growth points, my Business Development Workshop provides clarity, alignment, and an actionable plan. Get the Outline
If you’d prefer to start with a Free 30-Minute Clarifying Conversation, it’s simply a chance to talk through where you are with an experienced entrepreneur as a sounding board. Schedule a Call Here
“It is always worth a conversation. Talk to Lori.”
