A new year often brings pressure for small business owners.
Pressure to grow faster, to sell more, to finally “get it right.”
But before you add another strategy or commit to another launch, there’s something far more important to address first: your small business mindset.
Because without clarity, even the best strategies can lead to burnout.
Below are 10 questions every small business owner should ask at the beginning of a new year—not to slow you down, but to help you grow with intention, sustainability, and confidence.
1. What made money last year—and what just made noise?
Visibility doesn’t equal viability. A healthy small business mindset focuses on revenue-driving actions, not performative marketing.
2. Where did my time go, and was it worth it?
Your calendar tells the truth. Time alignment is a cornerstone of sustainable growth.
3. Where am I chasing growth instead of deepening impact?
More isn’t always better. Sometimes refinement is the real strategy.
4. What am I doing out of habit that no longer moves the needle?
Outgrowing old strategies is a sign of leadership—not failure.
5. Which decisions did I rush that needed patience?
A grounded small business mindset leaves room for discernment, not just urgency.
6. What am I doing out of fear instead of faith?
Fear often disguises itself as logic. Faith asks better questions.
7. Where am I the bottleneck because I won’t delegate?
Growth requires trust. Delegation creates capacity.
8. What am I overcomplicating that should be simple?
Boring systems scale. Chaos doesn’t.
9. What does “enough” look like—and who defines it?
If you don’t define success, comparison will.
10. Who do I want this business to shape me into?
Your business should build your life—not replace it.
The Small Business Mindset Filter to Use All Year
Before you say yes to anything this year, ask:
“Does this create more alignment—or just more activity?”
That one question can protect your peace, your energy, and your profit.
Ready for Clarity?
If you’re ready to strengthen your small business mindset and move forward with confidence, book a complimentary clarity call with Andee. Together, you’ll identify what’s working, what’s heavy, and what needs to shift.

