Growing a business can feel big and scary. That’s why I love looking back at fatherly business tips that helped me stay grounded—and joyful—along the way.
My dad wasn’t just a business owner. He was, in essence, a teacher. But he taught me lessons that made me the leader I am today. As a mom of two and the founder of several businesses, I’ve found that those tips—passed down over dinner or on long car rides—are the ones I use daily to run a business that feels aligned with who I am.
Let me share a few of those lessons with you. They might seem simple, but don’t be fooled—they work.
1. Show up—even when it’s hard
My dad used to say, “Just showing up puts you ahead of half the crowd.” I didn’t get it at first. But now? I get it deeply.
Being present makes a big difference, whether you’re tired, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step. This might mean logging in to check on your orders or writing one email to your list, even if it’s short. And, yes, I might be attending a networking call this week. These little actions add up.
That’s one of the best fatherly business tips I’ve used repeatedly: keep showing up, even when things feel messy.
2. Don’t rush—it’s not a race
When I first started, I wanted results yesterday. I thought success meant fast growth. My dad always said, “Slow and steady wins every time.”
Now I teach my clients to slow down, too. You don’t need to rush to post every day or have a full product line in your first month. In fact, that can lead to burnout. Instead, grow step by step. Add one offer at a time. Improve your systems. Learn as you go.
When you slow down, you actually go faster—because you’re building something strong.
3. Keep your word
This is a big one. Dad always kept his promises. He said, “When you say you’ll do something, do it.” It’s how people learn to trust you.
As a business owner, your word matters. Did you tell a customer you’d reply in 24 hours? Do it. Promised your community a newsletter on Friday? Send it. Your people will feel safe with you, leading to long-term loyalty.
4. Take breaks when you need them
Another of my favorite fatherly business tips is this: rest is part of the plan. Dad made time for family dinners, baseball games, and Sunday drives. He taught me that a good life isn’t just about work.
So now, I block out family time guilt-free. I go to my kids’ activities. I step away from my desk. And you can too. You don’t have to earn your rest. In fact, when you rest, you come back with more ideas and energy to grow your business.
5. Love what you do—and let people see that
This tip might be the most powerful one of all. I grew up watching my dad love teaching. His students and coworkers felt it, and I did, too.
Now, when I live or teach in my community, I let my love for what I do show. People can feel it, and that feeling creates a connection.
When you love your business, people notice. And that love attracts customers, clients, and collaborators who love you right back.
Final Thought
If your business journey feels confusing, try using some of these fatherly business tips. Let them ground you and guide you. You don’t have to be perfect. But you need to stay connected to who you are, show up with heart, and take it one step at a time.
You are building something beautiful. One day, you’ll pass down your own wisdom, just like my dad did for me.
If you have questions or need support with business planning, please schedule a free clarity session with me.
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