Building A Strong Foundation: Key Strategies For New Entrepreneurs
by Leah Notarianni, Co-Founder and CEO of Legacy and Leverage
Starting a business is an exciting journey, but it’s also one that requires focus, strategy, and adaptability. While it’s tempting to dive into everything at once — building a website, crafting elaborate plans, and chasing shiny new ideas—the most successful entrepreneurs know that prioritizing what’s necessary over what’s novel is the key to lasting success.
Here are practical strategies to help you get started and stay aligned with your vision.
Do What’s Necessary, Not What’s New.
When launching your business, it’s essential to focus on finding and validating a revenue-generating channel. This is what will establish your business as viable and help you refine your offering. Many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of trying to tackle everything at once — building websites, investing in flashy tools, or pursuing numerous side projects. However, none of this matters if your core offering isn’t driving revenue. Prioritize tasks that move the needle for your business instead of succumbing to shiny object syndrome.
Find Alignment Before Clarity.
It’s easy to get stuck overanalyzing a million business ideas, searching for the perfect one. Instead, focus on finding alignment. Ask yourself: What business do you genuinely want to build? What excites you enough to endure the inevitable challenges of entrepreneurship? Starting a business requires relentless energy, and without alignment, it’s tough to maintain the momentum necessary for growth. Whether you’re an entrepreneurial spirit with an artistic flair or a passionate problem-solver, focus on doing what you love — it will fuel your journey during both the highs and the lows.
Ground Your Vision in Numbers.
Many entrepreneurs have lofty visions but fail to ground them in financial reality. Understanding the numbers behind your business is non-negotiable. Take the time to calculate what it takes to be profitable. What are your expenses? How many sales do you need to break even or hit your goals? By grounding your vision with math, you’ll not only have a clearer path to success but also avoid the pitfalls of overextending yourself or running out of resources.
Be Flexible in Your Approach.
Flexibility is one of the most underrated traits of a successful entrepreneur. While it’s essential to stay committed to your ultimate goals, the path to achieving them may shift. Allow yourself to adapt, pivot, and explore unexpected opportunities as they arise. The startup phase is dynamic, and being open to possibilities can lead to innovations and strategies that are even better than your initial plan.
Innovate and Strategize.
Running a business isn’t just about execution — it’s about taking the time to think, strategize, and innovate. Some of the best ideas come from stepping away from the daily grind and evaluating your processes and goals from a fresh perspective. Give yourself space to dream, brainstorm, and think beyond your current constraints.
Starting and growing a business is not for the faint of heart — it requires vision, discipline, and the ability to adapt. By focusing on what’s necessary, aligning with your passions, understanding your numbers, and embracing flexibility, you’ll set yourself up for sustainable success. Remember, your entrepreneurial journey is as much about the process as it is the destination.
Leah Notarianni is a Transformational Speaker, Business Mentor, and the Co-Founder and CEO of Legacy & Leverage, where she empowers industry leaders to transform their life and business from the inside out. Through expertly designed programs — including live events, group and private coaching, and certifications — Leah helps leaders to strategically scale their companies and create a greater impact in the world.