Starting and scaling a business is exciting, but let’s be honest—it can also feel overwhelming. Between juggling client work, finances, family responsibilities, and everything else, it’s easy to slip into burnout.

That’s why I’ve created my Must List—a set of seven non-negotiables that have helped me grow and sustain a business I love while chasing big dreams. Some of these are logistical, others are mindset-related, but all of them have been game-changers in my journey.

1. A Simple but Solid Financial System

Half of small businesses don’t make it beyond five years, and one of the biggest differentiators is how owners handle money. Early on, I tracked “cash in, cash out” but had no forecasting. It led to too many surprises. Today, I rely on simple tools (and a great accountant!) to know my numbers, set goals, and plan with confidence. Past episodes to listen in to include my interviews with Gina Knox, Sheila Hansen, and my money mindset episode.

2. A Repeatable Marketing Plan

You don’t have to be everywhere—you just need to be consistent. For me, that means leaning on a mix of social media, podcasting, and email marketing. The trick is finding what you can sustain and then showing up again and again. An episode from earlier this year that may be helpful if you’re looking for more marketing help is this one.

3. Boundaries & Non-Negotiables

You are the boss. You set the hours. You define expectations. Without clear boundaries, you’ll overcommit and burn out. One of my biggest lessons has been learning when to say no so I can say yes to what matters most. For more on the power of no, check out this episode with Brooke Fitzgerald.

4. A Community of Like-Minded Women

Running a business can be lonely—but it doesn’t have to be. Having a circle of ambitious women who get it has carried me through the highs and lows. Whether it’s a mastermind, a networking group, or a circle of friends, community is fuel. I loved recording this episode with my mastermind girls a couple years back!

5. Permission to Not Have It All Figured Out

Perfectionism is the enemy of progress. I’ve learned that you don’t need to see the full staircase—you just need to take the next step. Trust your intuition and allow yourself to grow as you go.

6. A Healthy Money Mindset

Research shows women are 63% more likely than men to self-fund their businesses and less likely to seek outside funding. Too often, we undervalue our work. The moment I raised my prices to reflect my expertise, everything changed—not just my revenue, but my confidence.

7. Resilience & Reframing

Setbacks are inevitable, but they don’t have to define you. When I hit obstacles in my business, I ask myself: What is this teaching me? How can I come back stronger? That mindset shift has made all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Self-employment isn’t always convenient. But with strong systems and the right mindset, it can be deeply rewarding. My Must List isn’t about perfection—it’s about sustainability, alignment, and creating a business that supports your life.

What would make your must list?

Resources & Links:

• U.S. Small Business Administration survival rates
• Forbes on women entrepreneurs and funding
• Fundera research on small business burnout
• Connect with Molly on Instagram: @mollyknuth
• More episodes + resources: mollyknuthmedia.com