Here’s a quick win challenge to help you get started.

If you're an entrepreneur that is tired of being stuck in the weeds, working hard but not seeing the results you want, this episode is for you. Today, we're going to talk about how disorganization and broken systems might be holding you back and how you can make small changes that give you better results. So, whether you're struggling to stay productive or just craving more freedom in your business, this episode will give you actionable steps so you can reclaim your time and finally create a business that works for you. Welcome to the Mind Your Time podcast. I'm Shannon Baker, your coffee loving host and business operations strategist. Each week, I'll share practical insights and bold strategies, rooted in my power and motion framework, to help you streamline your operations, reclaim your time and build a business that supports your life. Whether you're just starting out or scaling to six figures and beyond, these episodes will help you take control and create success on your own terms. So grab a cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and let's dive into today's topic. Are you feeling buried in the daily grind of running your business in the weeds, so to speak, wondering why all the effort that you're putting in isn't paying off the way you had envisioned? Well, let me ask you this. What if the issue isn't how hard you're working, but it's because you're trying to build your business on a shaky foundation because you don't have the right systems holding it up? Think about that for a second. You're hustling, you're showing up, you're putting in the hours, you're losing sleep, but you're not seeing the growth you want. If that hits home, you're definitely in the right place, because today we're going to talk about how you can turn your back office chaos into a strong foundation for growth and freedom, using my power in motion framework, because it's time for you to stop spinning your wheels and start building a business that works for you, not the other way around.

Picture this you wake up ready to take on the day. You fix your morning cup of coffee, you do a little journaling or Bible reading as you sip on that coffee and enjoy the quietness in the room. Then you get ready to start your day. You've got it all planned out. You're determined. You're going to check off every item on your to-do list, but by noon you're overwhelmed. The emails keep coming in. You've had to put out several fires for a client and then you find out that a major process is broken and you don't know how to fix it. Does that sound familiar? It's okay, I've been there too. This is actually where a lot of entrepreneurs get stuck, because they're juggling everything, feeling pulled in every direction and left wondering why they're still in the same place that they were six months ago. I get it Again. I've been there.

I remember one morning that I sat down at my desk staring at a sea of files on my desktop. I needed to find a contract for a client, and after 10 minutes of searching, I couldn't locate it. Not only was I frustrated, but it also drained my energy and my productivity. At that moment, that's when I realized that my digital clutter wasn't just annoying, it was costing me time and keeping me from being productive. So let's do something about that right now.

If this is something that you've been putting off, here's a quick one challenge for you. Take a look at your computer desktop. Is it covered in random files and icons? If it is, I want you to pause this episode and create one folder call it ORGANIZE ME, and I want it in all caps, so that this folder stands out. Then take a deep breath and drag every single file on your desktop into that folder. Now, this isn't about perfection. This is about making progress, and progress beats perfection every time. Once you've done that, I want you to look at your clean desktop. It feels good, right? Well, that's our ultimate goal with getting organized having clarity that creates mental space for what matters most to you. Now imagine what getting organized could do for your entire business when you create systems that work. Now I'm going to share a true story with you that shows the power of getting organized.

One of the first projects that I tackle with every client is digital organization. For example, I had a client who had a six-figure business and it was growing fast. Now, on the outside, her business looked successful because it was at least on the books. Her clients loved her work because she was good at what she does. She still is, and her calendar is always booked in advance. But behind the scenes, it was absolute chaos. She had two Dropbox accounts, two Google Drives and no clear separation between her personal and her business documents. Her digital files were scattered across random folders or in no folders at all. Her calendar was a total nightmare of overlapping meetings. She was always overbooked and her client onboarding process, which was non-existent, was so inconsistent that she always forgot steps and this always caused complications. Later she was overwhelmed, exhausted and constantly worried about dropping the ball, because she did a lot. She spent more time putting out fires than actually doing productive work, so her business wasn't just chaotic, it was really running her into the ground.

So our first project was cleaning up her desktop and her digital files by separating and consolidating everything into a single system. That's where we implemented what I now call a power week. We tackled her digital junk drawer head on, organizing everything into a system that worked for her, and it has been a game changer From there. We were able to create streamlined and repeatable processes, including the onboarding process, and that removed the guesswork from her operations. Now, for the first month, everything was working well. For the first time, she felt like she finally had her business under control. But then chaos started creeping in. Does that sound familiar? So at our 30-day check-in call, we dug into what was happening and she had an aha moment. She had started slipping back into her old habits and wasn't using the system the way we built it to work. But once she recommitted to the process and made her systems part of her daily routine, letting them do their job, everything changed. Within a few months she was sticking to her office hours, taking unplugged weekends and vacations with no laptop and no stress, because she knew her business would keep running without her.

That's the power of combining systems with discipline. Systems only work if you let them. They don't restrict you. They actually create space in your daily life, and that space gives you the freedom you want and need to focus on what matters most in your life and in your business. And this transformation ties directly into the Power in Motion framework, because it's not just about organizing your files. It's about building a solid foundation in your business that sets you up for long-term success. Now, if you're curious about all five steps of this framework and how they work together, I go into each of them in detail in another episode, which is the ultimate end-of-year planning framework to build momentum for next year. I'll put a link in the show notes so you can check that out later.

Now here's a hard truth. I don't want you to have to learn this the hard way. Without systems, your business isn't scalable. Actually, it's a house of cards that can fall apart very easily. Every minute you spend on things that could be automated or delegated, it's not just time wasted, it's time that is stolen from the things that matter most to you. That's your health, your family and growing your business.

So let's flip the script. Imagine freeing up just two hours a week. What could you do with that time? Maybe it's taking a walk to clear your mind and getting more movement. Maybe you can enjoy an uninterrupted coffee break or lunch out with a girlfriend during the day, or finally being able to sit down and read that book that's been sitting on your nightstand for months. Those two hours is not just time saved. There are moments you can reclaim for yourself. But guess what? None of that is possible without systems. Now would it be helpful for you to have access to resources that make this process a little bit easier for you? Well, inside of the Mighty Society membership, I've created workbooks, templates and other resources that will not only help you build systems tailored to your unique business and its needs, but there are resources in there to help you learn how to make time for yourself and practice self-care daily.

These aren't cookie cutter solutions. They're designed to help you streamline your operations and reclaim your time, and, once your systems are in place, discipline is what keeps them working for you. This is how you build sustainable growth not by working harder, but by working smarter. But systems are only part of the equation. Let's talk about your mindset. Systems won't fix the chaos you're experiencing if you're stuck in survival mode, and this is where the three C's come into play. That's calm, clarity and commitment. Being calm protects your energy and helps you stay grounded when things feel overwhelming. That's why my tagline is keep calm and streamline. And then clarity that helps you stay focused on solving the right problems instead of spinning your wheels and wasting time on the wrong ones. And commitment well, this is a game changer. Commitment turns your progress into lasting success.

Now, there is one thing that I've noticed all of my clients have in common that keeps them from sticking to their systems once they're in place. It's fear. Whether it's fear of letting go, fear of trusting someone else, fear of trusting the system or fear of failure, they experience either one or all of these things and they start slipping back into their old habits. So, whether you experience one or all of these, fear will keep you clinging to the chaos and then accepting it as a normal way of living, and we don't want that. Here's the thing, though. Discipline. Don't want that. Here's the thing, though Discipline it's not restrictive, it's actually liberating. Discipline allows you the space that you need to focus on what matters most while letting go of the rest. That's what real self-care looks like for us as business owners. It's being able to say I matter enough to create a business that supports my life, not the other way around. So here's something else I want you to do for your next quick win Grab the BizOps checklist via the link in the show notes.

In less than two minutes. It's gonna help you pinpoint exactly where your systems are leaking time Spoiler alert. You're going to feel the same sense of clarity that you got from cleaning up your desktop, but on a much bigger scale, when you complete that checklist. Now, if digital file clutter is what's holding you back, then that's where a power week comes in. It's a focused work week where we map out what you want your filing system to look like, and I do the heavy lifting and clean up and organize your digital files while you spend your time somewhere else. It's the perfect solution if you want to start with a clean slate and then build from there.

Now let's do a recap of what we talked about today. First of all, being disorganized leads to chaos, which is what's holding you back, but systems and discipline unlock the freedom that you desire, and systems are not just good tools to have at your disposal. They are the foundation of growth, the keys to clarity and freedom. We also talked about the mindset shifts that you need to embrace to make it all work Keeping calm to protect your energy and keep you grounded, having clarity to solve the right problems and be productive. And then being committed to making changes, not slipping back into your bad habits. So the progress that you've made leads to more success, which is what you want.

Now it's time for you to take action. Whether you download the Biz Ops checklist, join us inside the MY-T Society, reach out to me on social media to get your questions answered, or book a call with me to see what option is best for you, take the first step so that you can build a business that supports you. Remember, systems create clarity, and clarity creates the space for your business and your life to thrive together. So don't let another week go by without taking action. Start getting your systems in place. You have the power to create a business that supports your life and your values, so let's make it happen together.

Thanks for hanging out with me this week. If you've made it this far. It's clear you're ready to shake things up and take control of your business, and I'm here for it. But remember, just listening to this episode won't get you better results. I challenge you to break the mold and take action today. Your next move let's connect Head to the show notes and book a call with me to learn how the Mighty Society membership can help you streamline your back office and reclaim your time. If you're not ready for that step yet, no worries. Connect with me on Instagram, at the underscore Shannon Baker, and tell me what resonated most from today's episode. And if you're loving the podcast, leaving a review is a quick way to show your support and help more entrepreneurs like you break free from the chaos. Listening is great, but action creates transformation. Go, make it happen and, until next time, keep calm and streamline.

Hustle culture has you believing that the grind is the only way. But what if that's the very thing that's holding you back? Well, today we're busting three myths that are draining your time and energy and keeping you stuck in chaos. I'm going to show you how to reclaim your power with bold boundaries, intentional income and simple systems that work for you. Let's shake things up. This is an episode you don't want to miss.

Welcome to the Mind your Time podcast. I'm Shannon Baker, your coffee-loving host and business operations strategist. Each week, I'll share practical insights and bold strategies rooted in my power and motion framework to help you streamline your operations, reclaim your time and build a business that supports your life. Whether you're just starting out or scaling to six figures and beyond, these episodes will help you take control and create success on your own terms. So grab your cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and let's dive into today's topic.

What if I told you that the hustle is the biggest lie entrepreneurs have ever been sold, that working harder and longer it's not the path to success, but it's really got you on the road to burnout? Hustle culture tells us that freedom comes from grinding 24-7. But let's be real. We didn't start our businesses to work endless hours and still feel like nothing's working out. You started your business for freedom freedom with your time, freedom to make your own choices and to be free in your life to live it how you want. So why does it feel like your business owns you instead of the other way around? Well, imagine this it's late at night, you're sitting at your desk or in front of the TV with your laptop open, trying to wrap up client work that you promised you would finish days ago. Everyone else is asleep, so the house is quiet and you can't help but wonder is this really what you signed up for? Be honest, does that sound familiar? Well, if it does, it's okay. You're not alone. I've been there too.

There was a time when I was in that hustle mindset, thinking that being constantly available was just part of running a business. I thought it meant that I was serving my clients well, being reliable, and was building trust. But here's what I learned the hard way Always being available is not sustainable. In fact, it's the fastest way to burn out and it's a disservice to your clients. When you're always available, you sacrifice the things that make you your best self. You skip meals, you don't get enough rest and you don't make time for your family or yourself. So eventually, you're not going to be giving your clients the best version of you. They're actually getting the tired, stressed out and overwhelmed version that's making mistakes. And if you're frustrated with how much they demand of your attention, here's a big pill you need to swallow. You have trained them to treat you that way.

So let's talk about why boundaries in business are so critical. Boundaries are the invisible barrier that lets people know how they can interact with you in a way that respects your time and your energy, and they're not selfish. They're a necessity. Here's something to keep in mind the only people who get upset with you when you put boundaries in place are the ones who benefit the most when you don't have them or don't enforce them.

So again, think back to why you started your business. Was it to work 60 hours a week and miss family dinners and feel like you're constantly playing catch up? I don't think so Now. That might be your reality today, but the good news is you're listening to this episode, which means you're ready to make a change and you can do it. You have the power to decide where you're going to spend your time and energy, and I want to help you take back that control. So here's where you can start. I want you to pick one boundary today. Maybe it's setting office hours. You get to decide when you're going to work and when you're going to stop. Then you need to communicate that to your clients and stick to it. Or maybe you need to set specific times that you check emails and messages on social media so you're not constantly interrupted. Now, if you do that, make sure you set a time when you're going to reply as well and you can schedule email responses. Now it might feel uncomfortable at first, but trust me, when you create that space, you're going to wonder why you didn't do it sooner. That will be your only regret.

Let me share a quick story with you. So a client of mine was constantly working late into the night and through the weekend because she trained her clients to expect her to respond immediately, no matter what time it was or what day it was. So, guess what? She started to feel exhausted and she even started to resent her business. I remember her saying I'm at a point where I don't even like people. So we worked together to implement some boundaries, that's, clear office hours, scheduling check-ins for messages and using a scheduling tool to schedule calls with clients and leads. Within a few weeks, her stress level dropped dramatically. She realized that most of her clients didn't even mind waiting a bit longer for responses. They were just sending her messages when it was convenient for them. So she had been running herself into the ground for absolutely no reason. Is that you? You can change that.

Now let's talk about another myth that keeps entrepreneurs stuck. That's this whole thing about residual or passive income. It's often marketed as the ultimate goal, the dream of making money while you sleep but the reality is it's not magic money. It doesn't just come out of nowhere. What you really need to focus on is creating intentional income. That means that every dollar you earn serves a purpose. It's aligned with your goals, it supports your business growth and it helps you build the life you want.

Now, if you don't have clarity about what you're working towards, it's very easy to fall into the trap of chasing every opportunity that comes your way. So you end up saying yes to things that don't align with your vision, you spread yourself too thin and then you get overwhelmed. This is where the power in motion framework comes in, because it's specifically designed to help you organize your operations, but also make sure it aligns with your life, because when you're intentional about what you're your operations, but also make sure it aligns with your life, because when you're intentional about what you're working towards, you can create systems that supports those goals and it helps you focus on what matters most, whether it's in your personal life or your business. So let me give you a practical place to get started. I want you to put in your schedule 15 minutes that you're going to answer these three questions why did you start your business? How is it serving you and your family right now, and what do you want it to do for you in the long run? Now these questions sound simple, but the answers are so powerful. When you answer these questions, you're going to get the clarity that you need to make some very intentional decisions about where you're going to use your time and energy. One of my clients told me this exercise actually helped her realize that she was spending way too much time on things that weren't moving her business forward. So she shifted her focus and within a few months, she started to see real progress.

Now let's talk about this last myth. It's the myth that you can hire your way out of the mess and chaos that you've created. Now I know how tempting it is to think well, if I just had a VA or virtual assistant, everything else would be easier. But here's the truth If your business is already operating in chaos, don't bring somebody else into that mess. It's just going to make it worse and you're going to make them as miserable as you are. Without systems in place, a virtual assistant is going to spend more time asking you how to do things than actually getting them done, so then you're going to end up micromanaging them and feeling even more overwhelmed and frustrated.

The real solution is to build systems first. Systems are the foundation of a scalable, sustainable business. They allow you to delegate effectively, grow efficiently and you can step away from your business without everything falling apart. Where do you start? Well, start with one area of your business that feels chaotic right now. It might be client onboarding. It might be managing your inbox. You can create a simple, repeatable process for it. Write down the steps, create a checklist or set up some automation. Once you have that system in place, you're going to be able to bring on help, but without the chaos, all right. So let's do a quick recap.

Today, we busted three big myths that might be keeping you stuck. The first one is that you have to be available all the time. The truth is, boundaries are a form of self-care, and they help you show up as your best self, not just for your clients, but for yourself. The second myth is that residual or passive income is the ultimate goal. Instead, I want you to focus on creating intentional income by aligning your financial goals with your personal and business priorities. And then the last myth is that you can hire your way out of chaos.

Building systems first is how you set your business up for sustainable growth and successful delegation, and here's a challenge for you. I want you to take action on one thing from this episode. It could be setting one of the boundaries, it could be answering those three questions to give you more clarity in your business, or you can pick one system that you're going to get in place in the next 90 days. Whatever you decide, remember, small steps lead to big changes, and I want you to experience the relief that comes from taking action and using the control that you have. So if you're ready to simplify and streamline your business, start by grabbing the BizOps checklist. A link is in the show notes. It's quick and easy and it will help you audit your back office so that you can start making intentional changes.

Now I'm going to wrap up and leave you with this you have the power to decide how you run your business. You have the power to decide how you run your business. You have the power to set boundaries, create intentional income and build systems that support your life and allow you to live your legacy. So take the first step today and let's make it happen together. Thanks for hanging out with me this week.

If you've made it this far, it's clear you're ready to shake things up and take control of your business, and I'm here for it. But remember, just listening to this episode won't get you better results. I challenge you to break the mold and take action today. Your next move let's connect Head to the show notes and book a call with me to learn how the Mighty Society membership can help you streamline your back office and reclaim your time. If you're not ready for that step yet, no worries. Connect with me on Instagram, at the underscore Shannon Baker, and tell me what resonated most from today's episode. And if you're loving the podcast, leaving a review is a quick way to show your support and help more entrepreneurs like you break free from the chaos. Listening is great, but action creates transformation. Go, make it happen and until next time, keep calm and streamline.

Have you ever felt like you're putting in the hours but you're still not getting the results you want?

What if I told you the key to bringing that cycle to an end is easier than you think? Well, today we're going to get into the final step of the Power in Motion framework, and that's Remember, refine and Review. This step is a game changer and by the end of the episode, I'm going to share a practical challenge that you can complete this week to set yourself up for success. Welcome to the Mind your Time podcast. I'm Shannon Baker, your coffee loving host and business strategist. Each week, I will share practical insights and bold strategies for six figure entrepreneurs looking to clean up their back office and create streamlined systems. The weekly episodes will help you take control of your time, scale your business and create success on your own terms. So grab your cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and let's dive into today's topic. How would it feel for you to finally stop spinning your wheels and start seeing progress that actually moves you closer to your goals? Well, this episode is going to show you how to make it happen.

Today, we're getting into the final step of the Power in Motion framework the R for Remember, refine and Review, and this step is critical to your success this year. By the end of the episode, you're going to have a clear plan to kick off the year with intention. Plus, I'm going to tell you about an upcoming opportunity, available only inside the Mighty Society membership, that you don't want to miss. It's a new year, it's a clean slate, a fresh start and the perfect time for you to pause and reflect. If you're like most entrepreneurs, you are so focused on the day to day grind that you rarely stop to look back at what you've accomplished and determine if your efforts are truly aligned with your bigger vision. And that's what step five in the Power in Motion framework is all about Giving yourself the space to reflect on what's working, what isn't, and how you can move forward with clarity and purpose and get better results.

Take it from me. I know A few years ago, I had a wall in my business. I was busy putting in the hours, but the results just were not happening for me. I really felt like I was running on a treadmill. I was exhausted and I was frustrated because I wasn't going anywhere in my business. Have you ever felt like that? Well, this is what I did.

I decided I was going to pick one goal and focus on that and only that until I reach it. And it took me two years. Yes, two years working one plan, and I know that sounds like an eternity in a world where we're all about quick wins and rapid growth. But being that focus was a game changer for me. Once I picked that goal, I made sure my operations could support that goal. I created a very detailed plan and I executed consistently, which also required me investing in experts with different areas of knowledge that I needed to help me make things happen in my business.

But here's the truth the transformation didn't happen until I started reflecting, refining and reviewing my progress regularly. So here's what I learned during those two years Clarity begins in reflection. Every time I paused to review my progress, I saw small wins that I would have missed otherwise, like being more consistent with my podcast, getting better referrals and steadily growing my downloads on the podcast each week, and I definitely wouldn't have noticed what wasn't working without taking the time to reflect. Those moments of review allowed me to make adjustments, stay motivated and keep moving forward, even though sometimes the progress felt really slow. And let me tell you, when I finally reached my goal of leaving my day job and working my business full time. The sense of accomplishment that I felt was indescribable, because it wasn't just about hitting the target, but it was about the whole experience that I had along the way.

And let me ask you something how often do you take time to reflect on your progress? I mean, have you celebrated any micro wins lately? Well, here's a quick exercise to help get this started. If you're able to grab a notebook and a pen, or just open up the notes app on your phone right now If you're driving or walking, plan to do this later, but I want you to write down three wins from last year. Then write one area where you felt stuck and one adjustment that you can make this month to get better results. Okay, time to do the work. Pause this episode, set a timer for five minutes and do this now. I'll wait, but when you're done, I want you to DM me on Instagram at the underscore Shannon Baker, and share your biggest win with me. Let's celebrate together Now.

Our focus today is on step five of the Power in Motion framework, that's, remember, refine and review. So let's start by talking about remembering, and this goes beyond celebrating wins, though it's an important part of the process. Think about what actually worked well for you last year. Beyond celebrating wins, though, it's an important part of the process. Think about what actually worked well for you last year. Maybe you landed a dream client, or you streamlined a process that made a huge difference, or maybe you just showed up consistently in your marketing. I want you to write it down, reflect on it and let it fuel your motivation for the year ahead. And remember, wins don't have to be big. I mean, did you take a real day off without your laptop? Did you spend more quality time with your family being fully present?

Wins come in all forms and all of them matter. A few years ago, a mentor of mine suggested that I create a wall of wins in my office, and I did that, and I write each win, whether it's big or small, on a two by two card and I clip it to the wall. Seeing that wall every single day reminds me of how far I've come, and it brightens my day when things get tough. Now, if you want to see what it looks like, dm me and I'll send you a picture. Trust me, this practice can shift your mindset and fuel your momentum so you can keep going, but remembering also means reconnecting with your why, why did you start your business? What impact did you want to make? How is your business supposed to support your lifestyle? Your why is your anchor, your North Star, and revising it regularly keeps you grounded and focused. So write it somewhere where you can see it, whether it's on a sticky note in your planner or even on your wall of wins. Put it at the top.

Now let's talk about refining, which is about making intentional adjustments to what isn't working. Maybe you set a goal last year that just wasn't realistic, based on the resources you had available or the season of life that you were in. Or maybe you struggle to stay consistent with the new system you implemented. Well, instead of just throwing in the towel and abandoning those efforts, ask yourself how can I tweak this to make it more manageable, efficient and effective? You know, one of my clients last year wanted to post on social media, but she felt overwhelmed because in her mind, she thought she needed to post every day. And we know what happens she kept trying, but she kept failing. So when we sat down and looked at her content plan, we realized she could achieve the same results by posting two to three times a week with intentional, high-value content. That small adjustment gave her back time and made her efforts sustainable and productive and less overwhelming.

So now it's your turn. What's one area of your business that could use a small adjustment, maybe a simplification? Maybe it's your client onboarding process, or maybe it's your scheduling system, or even your morning routine? I need you to identify it and commit to refining it this month, and, if you need help, there are several resources inside of the Mighty Society membership that are designed to guide you through this month. And, if you need help, there are several resources inside of the Mighty Society membership that are designed to guide you through this process.

Now the last step is reviewing, and this is where the real transformation happens. Reviewing is about regularly evaluating your process and making adjustments along the way, so my two-year journey would not have been possible without regular reviews, and inside of the Mighty Society membership are the 90-day goal setting worksheets, which are designed to guide you through this process. It's the process that I use. The worksheets include daily, weekly and monthly reflections, plus there's a structured review for you to complete every 90 days. This rhythm will help you evaluate your goals, celebrate your process and make adjustments in real time. It's like having a built-in accountability system to keep you on track all year long. Here's a quick tip I want you to schedule a review day at the end of each month. I want you to schedule a review day at the end of each month. Use this time to assess what you accomplished, identify any roadblocks that you encountered along the way, anticipate roadblocks you may come up against in the future, and then map out your focus for the next month. It's one of the most impactful habits that you can build Now.

Before we wrap up today, I'm going to do a recap of all five steps of the power in motion framework. First, you need to pick one goal. So you start with one clear, measurable goal that you're going to focus on for the next 90 days, and I want you to simplify your efforts by putting all your energy where it matters most. Then you're going to organize your operations, audit and align your systems to support your goal. Use the BizOps checklist to help you get started. This step will ensure that your business runs efficiently so that you can focus on growth.

Then you need to work on the plan. Create a step-by-step actionable plan with realistic timelines. A good plan transforms big goals into achievable milestones. Small steps matter. Once you have your plan, you need to execute consistently. Show up, do the work every day with intention. Consistency is where progress becomes inevitable, even if your progress is slow, just be patient with the process. Then you need to remember, refine and review Regularly, reflect on your wins, adjust what isn't working and celebrate how far you've come. This is where the transformation starts to happen, but you have to do the review to notice it. Each step of the Power In Motion framework is designed to help you take control of your time, align your efforts with your vision and build a business that supports your life, not the other way around. And together, these five steps ensure that you're always moving forward with purpose, at a pace that works for you, because this isn't about hustling to the point of burnout. It's about sustainable growth so that your business supports your lifestyle and you can live your legacy.

Now let's talk about what's coming up inside the Mighty Society. This year, we're going to start hosting masterclasses and having some co-working sessions, because I want to make sure that your goals are aligned with what you want and that you can take focused action throughout the year. These sessions are exclusive to members and they're going to be game changers Now. If you've been waiting for the right time to join, it's now. Go to theshannonbakercom forward slash membership and join us today. I don't want you to miss the first masterclass which is happening this month. This is your chance to kick off the year with clarity and get some momentum.

Now, before you go, I have one more challenge for you. Take 15 minutes this week to reflect on last year what worked, what didn't, and how can you refine your approach to make this year even better than the last. Join us inside the Mighty Society membership so you can grab a copy of the 90-Day Goal Setting Worksheets. You also get access to the masterclasses, co-working sessions and an incredible community of entrepreneurs. Growth is so much easier when you're surrounded by people who understand your journey. And don't forget, dm me your biggest win from the other challenge. I cannot wait to celebrate with you.

Feel free to share this episode with a friend or a fellow entrepreneur who you know is ready to start the year off strong, and I hope to see both of you inside the membership soon. Thank you for tuning in this week. Remember, just listening to this episode will not get you better results, so I challenge you to break the mold and take action today. If you're unsure where to start, book a call with me to get your questions answered about the Mighty Society, membership or anything else that I mentioned. A link to my calendar is in the show notes.

Not ready to take that step yet? No problem. Be sure to connect with me on Instagram, at the underscore Shannon Baker. You can ask me your questions there or let me know that you enjoyed the episode by taking a screenshot, sharing it and tagging me. Now, if you haven't already grabbed my free audio masterclass, why don't you just start there? It's a great first step to assess your back office on your own, and this masterclass provides valuable insights and practical steps to help you organize your processes, reduce chaos and improve efficiency. Go to theshannonbaker.com/audiomasterclass Now. If you haven't left a review for the podcast yet, please do so. I would love to hear from you, and it's an easy way to show some love to the podcast and help me reach more small business owners who are ready to defy the status quo. I can't wait to hear from you, so until next time, keep calm and streamline.

Welcome back to the power in motion framework series we've already covered steps one through three, which is pick one goal, organize your operations and work on the plan. And these steps give you the foundation and strategy you need to start moving forward towards your goals. But here is where the rubber meets the road. Step four, execute consistently. So today we're going to talk about the power of continuous action and why showing up consistently is the key to turning your plans into progress. I'm going to share what makes a difference between staying stuck and building real momentum, and these actionable steps will help you keep moving forward. Welcome to the mind your time Podcast. I'm Shannon Baker, your coffee loving host and business strategist, each week, I will share practical insights and bold strategies for six figure entrepreneurs looking to clean up their back office and create streamlined systems. The weekly episodes will help you take control of your time, scale your business, and create success on your own terms. So grab your cup of coffee or your favorite beverage, and let's dive into today's topic.

Did you know that 80% of the New Year's goals are abandoned by February, and it's not because people don't care, it's because they don't have a system to help them stay consistent. Sound familiar? Are you one of the millions of people who start strong only to lose steam a few weeks later, whether it's in your business, fitness or just life, you are not alone. But the truth is, the problem, isn't you, it's your approach. So today I'm calling that out, and we're going to talk about how you can execute consistently so you can finally close the gap between your goals and getting real results. Now, in last week's episode, I talked about working on the plan, taking that big goal that you've set and breaking it into smaller actionable steps. And I talked about how having a clear roadmap to your goal is so worth it, even if it takes you more than 90 days to reach it. It helps you stay focused and will help you move forward. It's really like your North Star.

But the thing is, a plan is only as good as this execution, and this is where most of the failure happens, because this is where the rubber meets the road, and things start to get real. You're excited, you're motivated, and then life starts, life in so you fall off track and you lose the initial momentum. I mean, think about it. I don't know about you, but when it comes to losing weight, I really feel like I'm always starting over. And if you're tuning into this episode, when it goes live, the New Year is right around the corner. It's like next week, so everyone's gonna rush to the gyms, because this is the year, and I say that in air quotes that they're going to lose weight, eat healthier and stick to the plan for good. The motivations there, their excitement is high and their intentions are pure. But what happens? Well, by February, half of those people are already gone, and by March, more treadmills are empty than being used, the meal plans are forgotten, and all that motivation and enthusiasm, well, it's gone.

So let's talk about why this happens. It's not because the goal wasn't important, and it's not because every person didn't have good intentions. It's because most people rely on motivation alone to get them through. Motivation is just a spark. It starts to fire. So it's exciting at first. It's bright. It can be fun, but it burns out quickly if you don't have something to keep the flames burning. So what keeps the fire burning? Well, simply put us three things, good habits, flexible routines and systems. That's what most people miss. So they set big, exciting goals, but they don't have a clear plan for how they'll consistently take action to make it happen.

So let me break this down, because systems are powerful. One, they eliminate decision fatigue because you know exactly what to do and when to do it. Two, they help you create habits over time, so what feels like effort becomes automatic later and then. Third, they help you stay consistent even when life gets busy, because the steps are already laid out, and hopefully you have some automations in place. When you have a system, you don't have to rely on how you feel in the moment to get things done.

Either it's like having a GPS for your business. You always know the next turn to take, no matter what. And as business owners, we do this all the time. Like, maybe you decide you're going to post on social media two to three times a week. Or finally, get that project management tool set up so you're excited about the idea, and you say to yourself, I am all in this time, and for the first week or two, you are crushing it. But we all know what happens. Life starts life and again. Like. Why, I may ask you for some last minute changes. You've got back to back calls because it's your busy season, your inbox is now overflowing, and then either you a kid or a parent gets sick and something has to give. So nine times out of 10, it's that new system or habit that you were working on, and you say to yourself, with good intentions, I'm going to get to it tomorrow, but tomorrow turns to next week. Next week turns to next month, and before you know it, the momentum that you had at first, it's gone, and you move on. I've been there too, and honestly, I'm still there sometimes.

Here's a perfect example, Social Media Marketing has never been my area of expertise, and I don't want it to be in to be real. Sometimes I just don't care enough to prioritize it. I will sit down, I make a plan, and I show up consistently. And let me be honest, and tell you, I do this same thing over and over again. So I will post according to my plan. I will schedule my post in advance for about a week or two, I engage with my audience all the things that we know we're supposed to do. So for maybe a week or two, I'm motivated. But then life starts life in and I look at my to do list, and when it comes to Instagram or any other social media platform, I think I'll get to it later, and then later turns into weeks of nothing, but I do stay consistent with my email marketing and this podcast.

So the problem isn't that I don't know what to do, is that I don't have a good system in place that will help me show up even when I don't feel like it. So willpower and motivation are not reliable strategies, especially for things I'm not naturally excited about. And I'm sure it's the same for you, like for me, it's social media. What is it for you? Here's what I've realized, I can't rely on motivation to carry me through. I have to create simple routines that make it easier for me to follow through. So instead of forcing myself to care more, I focus on what I can do. I plan content in advance when I Can I stick to my time blocks for engaging every day, and I aim to show up consistently in Instagram Stories, daily or regularly, but not perfectly. It's not about loving everything that I have to do. It's about building a system that helps me keep moving forward, whether I have the motivation to do it that day or not.

Think about it like this, if you want to get healthier, you don't just decide you're going to eat better, and magically you have results. I wish that was the case. You have to build routines like meal planning, because you need to get the ingredients you need in advance so that you can do meal prep on Sundays. That way you're not eating junk and you're not grabbing unhealthy takeout when things get hectic, but you've done the work to set yourself up for success by creating habits that make showing up easier. The same principle applies to your business. And I had a client who struggled with this. She actually paid for a solid marketing plan that someone created specifically for her and her business, but her execution was inconsistent. So one week, she would post according to plan, the next week, nothing. She felt like she was failing.

But the problem wasn't her effort, it was her approach. She had a lot of other things she was trying to implement, so she was doing too much at once, so we had to scale it back focus. One was to post three times a week, and they were high quality, intentional posts. Then in her schedule, we set two small, 10 minute blocks of time for her to be on social media and engage with her audience. One was to respond to her comments and DMS, and the other was to engage meaningfully with other people's content, not just liking believing good comments. And the results were almost immediate. Her engagement went up, her stress went down, and for the first time, she felt like she could stick with her plan.

So this illustrates that small, consistent actions make a difference. Here's something that I do that may help you celebrate what I call micro wins. If you complete even one small step towards your goal, like posting once on social media or setting up your weekly reset day, acknowledge it. Don't wait until you've achieved the whole goal to give yourself credit, because progress is progress, no matter how small and celebrating it keeps you motivated to keep going.

So here's a challenge for you. Think about one area of your business where consistency will make the biggest difference. It could be social media like me. And my client, or maybe it's staying on top of your schedule or actually creating one. Maybe it's client communication or getting your digital filing system in order. Whatever it is, start small and focus on being consistent, not perfect. And if you're wondering where you can start again, the biz ops checklist is a great tool. It's a simple, fillable PDF that helps you audit your back office operations and identify what parts need your focus. It doesn't take long to complete, actually less than two minutes, and once you finish, there are reflection questions to help you prioritize where to take action first, so you can start to see results right away. Grab a copy. The link is in the show notes if you haven't done that yet.

And I also want to share one of my favorite routines for staying consistent. It's my Monday weekly reset. I call it my sheEO day. I'm sure you've heard of other people doing this, but I spend 30 minutes looking at my goal, looking at what's coming up for me that week, and then deciding on my top three priorities for the week. I don't pick 1020, or 30 things, just three. This keeps me focused and ensures that I'm making progress on what matters most based on the season that my life is in. And here's the key, it doesn't have to be perfect. Some weeks I do have to adjust on the fly, and that's okay, because I have a plan. The goal is progress, not perfection. So what could a weekly reset look like for you?

Maybe it's going back to that Biz Ops checklist and picking something else to work on. Maybe it's organizing your schedule or mapping out your content for the week, whatever it is, build a routine that helps you start each week with clarity and confidence. So let's recap what we talked about. Motivation fades, but if you have good habits, flexible routines and systems, you can be more consistent. Progress will happen when you focus on taking small, consistent actions, not looking at big, unsustainable efforts, because that can be overwhelming, and having routines like a weekly reset or setting small time blocks to take care of specific tasks is going to help you stay on track even when life gets busy.

So here's my challenge for you. I want you to choose one area that you're going to focus on this week and commit to taking three small steps and then follow through on your plan. Again, that Biz Ops checklist can be your point of reference, because it's quick and easy and will give you the clarity that you need. So you know where to start.

Now, if you enjoyed today's episode, I want you to share with a fellow entrepreneur who could use a little push to be more consistent. And don't forget, next week we're going to cover the final step and the power in motion framework that's remember, refine and review, want to talk about how you can pause, celebrate your wins, learn from your challenges, and then move forward with even more clarity and purpose. So make sure you subscribe on your favorite platform and join me back here next week. Thank you for tuning in this week. Remember, just listening to this episode will not get you better results.

So I challenge you to break the mold and take action today. If you're unsure where to start, book a call with me to get your questions answered about the mighty society membership or anything else that I mentioned, a link to my calendar is in the show notes. Not ready to take that step yet. No problem.

Be sure to connect with me on Instagram at the underscore. Shannon Baker, you can ask me your questions there, or let me know that you enjoyed the episode by taking a screenshot, sharing it and tagging me if you haven't already grabbed my free audio master class, why don't you just start there? It's a great first step to assess your back office on your own, and this master class provides valuable insights and practical steps to help you organize your processes, reduce chaos and improve efficiency. Go to the Shannon baker.com, forward slash audio master class. If you haven't left a review for the podcast yet, please do so. I would love to hear from you, and it's an easy way to show some love to the podcast and help me reach more small business owners who are ready to defy the status. Whoa, I can't wait to hear from you. So until next time, keep calm and streamline you.

If you've been following along with the Power in Motion Framework series, you know we've already covered steps one and two. Pick one goal and organize your operation. These steps are foundational and they set the stage for everything that we're talking about this episode and the next few forward. So if you missed that episode, I highly recommend you pause here and go back and listen so you don't miss any critical steps. I put a link to the episode in the show notes. Now, for those of you who have been following along, welcome back, because today we're moving on to step three, work on the plan. This is where things start to get real. It's the point where you figure out the actions you're going to take, but doing it in a way that's intentional and strategic. So I'm going to walk you through how to break your goal into small, actionable steps, share some of my own experiences with this stage of the process and tell you about a client who used this step to make a major transformation in her business, because I want you to be able to do the same thing.

Welcome to the Mind your Time podcast. I'm Shannon Baker, your coffee-loving host and business strategist. Each week, I will share practical insights and bold strategies for six figure entrepreneurs looking to clean up their back office and create streamlined systems. The weekly episodes will help you take control of your time, scale your business and create success on your own terms. So grab your cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and let's dive into today's topic. So in the past few episodes I have been talking about my signature process power in motion, and today I'm going to be continuing that conversation, but we're going to focus on step three work on the plan. Now, at this point of the process, you should have set a clear goal that's meaningful and measurable for you and your business, and, if you're a member of the Mighty Society membership, the 90-day goal setting worksheets are a great resource that you can use for this step. Everyone should have definitely grabbed a copy of the BizOps checklist by now and completed an audit of your back office. That really is the first step that you can take on your own, for free, to get your operations in order so that you can start to build a strong foundation that supports your goal. Now, if you have not grabbed that checklist yet and completed it, I definitely need you to hit the pause button, click the link in the show notes and grab a copy. It's a fillable PDF that you can complete in less than two minutes, but even though you can do it quickly, it's going to give you insight into the gaps that exist in your back office right now, so that you can create a plan that allows you to fill in those gaps, because they are going to negatively impact your ability to achieve your goal.

Now, before we get into this step, let me ask you a question. How often do you end the day wondering what you actually accomplished? Maybe you checked off a bunch of things that you did, but none of them have anything to do with helping you get closer to your goal. I've been there. It's frustrating, right, and it's so easy to fall into this cycle of being busy but not productive and definitely not making any progress. Again, I've been there. It's happened to me in the past and I'm pretty confident that it's going to happen to me again in the future. It's really a part of the growth process.

When I first started my business, I really thought that being busy meant I was being productive. I would work eight to nine hours a day at my day job and I was working full time. Come home, help my daughter with any homework that was left cook dinner and after we ate, I would flip the laptop open and spend hours working on client emails, looking for files or trying to remember where I left off with a project the night before. By the end of the day, I will be exhausted, but I didn't feel any closer to achieving my goals, and the truth is, none of that chaos that I created was helping me grow my business in a sustainable way. It was really just keeping me stuck in the weeds and spinning my wheels.

That is exactly why having a plan matters. I know you've heard this before A goal without a plan is just a wish. Without a good plan, you're just reacting to whatever feels urgent in the moment. And this is what happens when you don't have space to be intentional or strategic. And you definitely can't be proactive without a clear goal, without operations to support that goal and without a good strategy or plan. So let's break this down and talk about what it actually means to work on the plan. So, simply put, it starts with clarity. You have to know what you're working towards. That's why step one of the Power In Motion framework is for you to pick one goal, and it has to be the right goal, based on the season in your life, because if you pick the wrong goal, even having a plan will not matter. Now again, let me remind you if you skip that episode, I need you to go back and listen to it, because everything else that we're going to talk about it builds from there. A link to that episode is in the show notes.

Now, once you have the right goal and you've completed an audit of your back office operations with the BizOps checklist, the next step is to create a plan with small, actionable steps. Think of these as bite-sized pieces that are easy to tackle, that won't leave you feeling overwhelmed. Here's an example If your goal is to streamline your client onboarding process, you might start by breaking it down into smaller steps, like documenting your current processes or the current process, audit that process, identify inefficiencies, choose tools to automate your workflows and then create templates for client communication. Now, each of these steps is manageable on its own and together they're going to get you closer to your goal. But here's where people get stuck they overcomplicate things, they try to tackle everything at once, or they just don't know where to start. So if that's you answer this question what's one area of your business that feels messy or chaotic right now. Maybe it's your onboarding process, maybe it's your digital filing system Could be. You need help figuring out how to manage your schedule, whatever it is. I want you to take a deep breath and remind yourself that you don't have to fix everything all at once. Pick one thing, create a plan, start small Again. That is where the BizOps checklist can help you. This free resource was designed to help you audit your back office operations and identify areas that need attention, and you can pick which ones are most urgent. It's quick, simple and will give you a clear roadmap for what you need to work on to move forward.

So let me share a story about one of my clients and how this checklist can help. When she came to me, she was feeling completely overwhelmed by her business. Her processes were in her head, like most people that I work with, and the biggest pain point was her client onboarding process, because it was a total mess. She had no system in place and every new client meant hours of manual work. And this was a huge issue in her business, because sometimes she has to onboard multiple clients at one time because of the nature of her business. So imagine onboarding two to three new clients and having to recreate the wheel each time. She was constantly missing something and it was taking a toll on her mentally and physically because she was losing sleep thinking about what she forgot to do.

So we started with having her complete the BizOps checklist. This gave us a clear picture of what wasn't working in her business and then, based on her goal, we identified what she needed to focus on first. So we reviewed her results together and she decided to book an SOP efficiency check to get my eyes on her onboarding process and get even more clarity. During that session, I pinpointed very specific inefficiencies and laid out a simple plan of action that she could take. It included things like choose a project management tool like mondaycom or something else, creating project templates, developing reusable message templates and there are a ton of them available inside of the Mighty Society membership that you can customize for your business and even automating intake forms, because they can be rinse and repeat. Within a few weeks, she was on her way to having a streamlined system that saved her hours every month, and it made her clients feel more cared for and she looked more professional.

Now imagine what that kind of transformation could do for your business. What would it feel like to have a plan in place or process in place that actually works, and then have a plan that saves you time and energy instead of draining the life out of you? One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that you don't have to do this alone, and you shouldn't have to waste time searching Google or YouTube to find the resources that you need, and that's one of the reasons that I created the Mighty Society membership. It's packed with resources to help you implement systems, templates you can customize and workflows that you can make your own, but all of it together will make your business operate more efficiently, and on top of that, you get access to live masterclass sessions where we can troubleshoot and refine your processes together.

Here's another thing you need to keep in mind once you create your plan, you have to set realistic timelines. How often have you started working on a project only to abandon it halfway through because it just felt too big or it was overwhelming? That usually happens because we're trying to do too much at one time. That's why I always tell my clients to focus on the power of three. Just set three goals at one time. Just pick three things to complete each week. This keeps you focused and prevents you from burning out.

So here's a practical example. Let's say one of your tasks is to organize your digital filing system. That could be a huge job right Now. Of course, I can tackle this for you in a power week. But if you decide you want to try this on your own, instead of trying to do it all at once in one sitting, break it into smaller chunks so you can focus on one folder or one category at a time, but make sure you set a timer for 30 minutes and when that timer goes off, you stop, you celebrate what you accomplished and you move on to the next thing. These small steps add up and they will give you the momentum you need to keep going, and do not forget to celebrate the small wins as you make progress.

But let's talk about what happens if you don't have a plan. Well, simply put, you stay stuck in chaos, you waste time trying to figure out what to do next and you lose energy because you're spinning your wheels. I've seen it happen time and time again. Without a clear plan, progress feels impossible. So let's recap what we've covered today.

Working on the plan is about refining a simple plan and taking consistent, aligned action. So start small by breaking your goals into actionable steps, and use a tool like the BizOps checklist to identify what process needs your attention first. Stay focused by working in manageable chunks and remember progress is about momentum, not perfection. And don't forget if digital clutter is one of the things that's holding you back. A power week can help you reclaim your time and your energy, and I do the heavy lifting for you.

Now, before I let you go, I have a challenge for you, one. I want you to download the BizOp checklist and set aside 15 minutes to complete it and really evaluate your results. Then identify one area of your business that you're going to focus on and create an action plan with three simple steps. If you're ready to dig deeper into your operations and get actionable feedback tailored to your goals, then book an SOP efficiency check with me. I will give you a detailed video of that one process and highlight the inefficiencies that exist and give you clear steps to not only improve it, but streamline it. Now I only have a limited number of spots available each month, so don't wait. Check out the link in the show notes and reserve your spot today, and if you need ongoing support, you're welcome to join us inside of the Mighty Society membership. That's where you'll find resources, templates, get access to the live masterclasses and all other things, including me, to help you refine your systems and keep your momentum going.

Now, next week, we're going to get into step number four, which is execute the plan. If you've ever struggled to stay consistent, you don't want to miss it. But if this episode really resonated with you, help me, help others, share it with a friend who needs to hear it. But also let me know what you're going to do. First, dm me on Instagram at the underscore, shannon Baker. But don't forget to grab the free Biz Ops checklist. The link is in the show notes. And until next week, keep working on your plan, keep streamlining and keep living your legacy. Thank you for tuning in this week.
Remember, just listening to this episode will not get you better results. So I challenge you to break the mold and take action today. If you're unsure where to start, book a call with me to get your questions answered about the Mighty Society membership or anything else that I mentioned. A link to my calendar is in the show notes. Not ready to take that step yet? No problem, be sure to connect with me on Instagram at the underscore Shannon Baker. You can ask me your questions there or let me know that you enjoyed the episode by taking a screenshot, sharing it and tagging me.

Now, if you haven't already grabbed my free audio masterclass, why don't you just start there? It's a great first step to assess your back office on your own, and this masterclass provides valuable insights and practical steps to help you organize your processes, reduce chaos and improve efficiency. Go to theshannonbakercom. Forward slash audio masterclass Now. If you haven't left a review for the podcast yet, please do so. I would love to hear from you, and it's an easy way to show some love to the podcast and help me reach more small business owners who are ready to defy the status quo. I can't wait to hear from you. So until next time, keep calm and streamline.

Are tech tools making your business run smoother or just stressing you out? Today we're breaking down the first two steps of my Power in Motion framework to show you how to pick the right tools and organize your operations. Stick around for practical tips and real life examples to help you cut through the overwhelm, save time and create a business that works for you, not the other way around.

Welcome to the Mind your Time podcast. I'm Shannon Baker, your coffee-loving host and business strategist. Each week, I will share practical insights and bold strategies for six-figure entrepreneurs looking to clean up their back office and create streamlined systems. The weekly episodes will help you take control of your time, scale your business and create success on your own terms. So grab your cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and let's dive into today's topic.

Let me ask you this have you ever started planning a simple family getaway, only to be completely overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list? Well, that was me a few years ago. I had reached a point in my business where things were finally taking off and, instead of celebrating, I was drowning in tasks, emails, scheduling, client follow-ups, all while working a day job. I was so busy trying to keep up that I couldn't even enjoy the success that I had worked so hard for. Then, one day, I missed the client deadline because their email was buried in my inbox. That's when I knew something had to change. I was done letting my business run me instead of the other way around. So I sat down and I started thinking about how I could make things work for me. And there is so much advice out there about how to start your business, how to get clients, da, da, da, da da, but no one tells you about the importance of systems or how to set them up so that your business doesn't take over your life. I quickly realized that I needed something else to give me back my time, or at least control of my time, while keeping things running efficiently, especially when I was working during the day or just completely unavailable because I was spending time with my family. Guess what it was. That is when I discovered the power of documented processes and the importance of tech tools for automation. Those two things combined didn't just save my sanity. They gave me space to focus on what mattered my family, my clients and my goals. They allowed me to step into the driver's seat and create a business that worked for me.

Does any of that sound familiar to you. Are you constantly juggling tasks, feeling like there aren't enough hours in the day? Maybe you're chasing money instead of creating the business that you dreamed of, one that runs efficiently without you and grows sustainably? Well, if that's the case, it's time for you to take a step back and start with the first step of my power in motion framework. You need to pick one goal, and if this is you, you're not alone, but I'm here to tell you it doesn't have to stay this way.

So today, we're going to talk about how you can reclaim your time, build a business that supports your desired lifestyle, and start using the right tech tools to create space for what matters most to you. Specifically, we're going to dive into the first steps of my power and motion framework. We're going to break down each and talk about how it can transform the way you run your business. So, step one, pick one goal. I've talked about this before, but, yes, we're going to talk about it again. This is all about narrowing your focus. One clear, measurable goal for the next 90 days can totally transform your approach and improve your results, for example, when I was planning to leave my day job instead of saying I just wanted to grow my business. I focused on a very specific outcome. Bottom line is make it very clear that clarity leads to real progress.

Now let's talk about the second step. You definitely have to organize your operations Now. I know the tech tools can feel overwhelming, especially when this isn't your strong suit. Technology is not your friend, and definitely when you're already stressed out and you don't know where to start. Maybe you've tried a tool or two or more and you got stuck and you just thought well, you know what, this just isn't worth it. Or maybe you've got tools just sitting there collecting dust because you're not sure how to use them and you don't have time to figure it out. Well, guess what, my friend? Let me start by saying you're not the problem. But the problem is that you're trying to force tools to fit your business without first figuring out what you actually need them to do. That's why the organize your operations step in the Power In Motion framework is so critical. This is where taking time to evaluate your tech tools before you sign up becomes essential.

Tech tools are powerful, but only when they're chosen intentionally and used effectively. So let's cut through the noise and get clear on how you can pick the right tools and make sure that they work for you, because newsflash tech tools should help you do three things Save time, streamline your business and free you up to focus on what really matters. Now let's break that down a bit. First, how does it save you time? Well, tech tools are like having an assistant who never sleeps. Imagine cutting out the endless back and forth emails to schedule meetings, or having follow-up emails sent automatically after someone submits their contact information through your website. That's time you get to spend on something that actually grows your business, or even just enjoying the time that you have to take a deep breath and enjoy a cup of coffee. What would it feel like to wake up and know that things have already been handled for you? Time is your most valuable resource, my friend, and tools help you maximize it, and they are so much worth their weight in gold.

Now, second, tech tools make your business run more efficiently. Think of them as quiet partners that are working in the background. They reduce errors, they automate repetitive tasks and they keep your business functioning even when you're not working. And when you are working, you can focus on the things that require your attention and not have to worry about the rest. So tools like online schedulers, automated workflows or project management tools can be integrated into your processes to create systems that don't need you to micromanage them processes to create systems that don't need you to micromanage them. Third, and most importantly, tech tools free you up to focus on what really matters. So, whether that's nurturing your clients, creating new offers or spending uninterrupted and fully present time with your family, the right systems give you back control. I mean, think about it. How much time have you spent doing things that feel urgent but aren't actually important? Tech tools allow you to shift your energy toward the things that align with your bigger goals. So, whether that's growing your business, connecting with loved ones or even carving time out for yourself, they will help. I mean, what would it look like if your work felt purposeful instead of just busy? That's the kind of freedom that tech tools can create when they're working for you. And here's a bonus they also improve communication in your business.

Whether you're managing clients or working with a team, tech tools help everyone stay connected and on the same page. Take Monday.com, for example. It's not just about tracking tasks or managing projects and deadlines. It's about creating a centralized hub where updates happen in real time. Now, if you want to know more about how Monday.com can transform your business and your team, check out my episode on how to transform your business and boost team productivity with Monday.com. I'm going to put a link to that in the show notes.

Now let's be real. Using tech tools isn't always smooth sailing. I mean, there are challenges, but none of them are deal breakers. First, there will always be a learning curve. Yes, it can feel frustrating at first, but in the long run, it's worth it. That's why I create how-to videos for my clients after we get a process in place, and members of the Mighty Society have a resource vault full of how-to videos. And these aren't just fluff videos. They're step-by-step guides to help you hit the ground running without spending hours searching Google or YouTube for just the right video. Krista Hutchins, a member of the Mighty Society, summed it up perfectly. This is what she had to say.

The Mighty Society is a great resource for anyone who's just starting to build out the systems in their business. I love that the videos are stripped down to just what you need to know to get started, so you can save hours of Googling and YouTubing. When I first joined, I started looking around a little bit inside the membership, but mostly I was able to go straight to what I was looking for because it was so easy to navigate. I could find just what I need when I needed it.

Now, if you want to learn more about the Mighty Society membership, feel free to check it out at theshannonbakercom forward slash membership. Now let's talk about the second challenge, that's tool overload. There are so many options that it's easy to fall into the trap of subscribing to tools that you don't need. Not to mention, if you're like me, you'll sign up for a free trial that expires before you even get to use the tool and then worse, sometimes you forget to cancel and you end up paying for a tool that you don't need or you don't like. So how can you avoid this? Well, you need to start by determining what's essential for you. So answer these questions what's essential for you? So answer these questions what specific outcome do you need? Will this tool grow with your business, because you don't want to have to start over in the future, and are there specific features that you need? And then, what features are just nice to have? The answers to those questions are vital before you make a decision to use a tool. Now. The third challenge is cost, and I'm not just talking about money, I'm talking about time. That's why you need to evaluate your tech tools thoroughly. Will the time you spend learning and using the tool save you time or make you money in the long run? Will you need to hire someone to set it up for you or train you to use all of its features? And if you have a team, do they already know how to use the tool that you're considering, or will they have to learn it too? These are just a few of the considerations that you need to think through in your process. Here's a perfect example of what happens when you don't evaluate carefully.

A perfect example of what happens when you don't evaluate carefully. One of my clients was using Mondaycom to manage their team and track tasks, but they weren't maximizing the full potential of what was built into the system already. Because of that, all the features available weren't implemented, and then they decided to start using a more expensive tool that has a very steep learning curve. Meanwhile, one of their key processes was completely manual and was eating up so many hours every week. So once we started reviewing their processes and identified how they wanted things to work, I started implementing automations that were already built into mondaycom to streamline multiple processes, and now several processes run on their own. There's no more manual data entry, which is faster, more efficient and more accurate. These changes freed them up to focus on growing their business instead of being tied down with these administrative tasks that could be automated. So let's recap the key takeaways, because this is where the transformation really happens.

First, you need to start by picking one goal. That's the foundational step in the Power in Motion framework. Focus on one clear, measurable goal for the next 90 days. This focus creates momentum and lays the groundwork for everything else that you do in your business. Next, remember that tech tools save time by automating repetitive tasks and giving you back your most valuable resource.

Imagine waking up to find that follow-up emails, appointment scheduling and even some of your client communications have already been handled, all without you having to lift a finger. That is time you can reinvest in growing your business, nurturing relationships or simply catching your breath and enjoying life. Second, tech tools make your business run more efficiently, and this isn't just about saving a few minutes here and there every now and then. It's about creating systems that work even when you're not. No more wondering if something fell through the cracks, no more putting out fires or manually tracking every little detail in your business. Instead, you will be operating like a pro. You'll have streamlined workflows and they will keep everything moving forward without you. Third, and most importantly, they free you up to focus on what really matters.

What would it look like if your work felt purposeful instead of just busy? That's the kind of freedom that tech tools can create, when you use the right tools and they're working for you. And don't forget about communication and collaboration. Tools like monday.com is not just about task management. It's about creating an environment where your business, your team, your clients, they're connected, they're informed and everyone's on the same page. So let me ask you this what would it look like if your business worked for you instead of the other way around? And what if you had the time you needed to focus on the big picture instead of being caught up in the weeds every day? What if you could finally step away from your business knowing it was still run like clockwork? Here's the bottom line your business should work for you, not the other way around.

And if you've been feeling overwhelmed, stuck in the weeds, or you feel like you're spinning your wheels trying to keep everything running, now is the time for you to make a change. The right systems and tools are not just nice to have. They're the key to freeing yourself up from the chaos and finally running a business that supports the life you want. So if you're ready to take charge and organize your business and get your systems in place, the BizOps checklist is the first step you need to take. In less than two minutes, you will get the clarity you need to identify what you need to focus on and what systems you need to create to support your goals so you can be successful. Download it today. It's quick, easy, it's fillable and it will help you cut through the overwhelm. So here's your challenge Once you've completed the BizOps checklist, choose one actionable step to improve your operations.

That's whether it's setting up a new tool, automating something or mapping out a process. Small wins build momentum and you will be amazed at how much clarity and confidence this one step can bring. Now, if you're ready to go even further, join the Mighty Society membership. You will get access to so many resources and guidance to help you implement the Power in Motion framework. It's designed to help you tackle your systems at your own pace, with the support you need from yours truly. Or if you're looking for a done-for-you solution, you can book a boost day with me and just one day we can get pieces of a system in place, your tools integrated, and that will start contributing to a business that works for you, not the other way around.

The spots are limited, so don't wait. Click the link to everything I talked about. All the links are in the show notes. Let's build a business that supports your life and your goals. So what's your next move? Let's make it happen together.

Thank you for tuning in this week. Remember, just listening to this episode will not get you better results, so I challenge you to break the mold and take action today. If you're unsure where to start, book a call with me to get your questions answered about the Mighty Society membership or anything else that I mentioned. A link to my calendar is in the show notes. Not ready to take that step yet? No problem, be sure to connect with me on Instagram, @the_ShannonBaker. You can ask me your questions there, or let me know that you enjoyed the episode by taking a screenshot, sharing it and tagging me.

Now, if you haven't already grabbed my free audio masterclass, why don't you just start there? It's a great first step to assess your back office on your own, and this masterclass provides valuable insights and practical steps to help you organize your processes, reduce chaos and improve efficiency. Go to theshannonbaker.com/audiomasterclass Now, if you haven't left a review for the podcast yet, please do so. I would love to hear from you, and it's an easy way to show some love to the podcast and help me reach more small business owners who are ready to defy the status quo. I can't wait to hear from you. So until next time, keep calm and streamline.

I can't believe it's been a year since I said goodbye to working my business part-time. When this episode goes live, I'll be celebrating one year of fully stepping into the business that I've been building for years, a business that works for me, not the other way around. So today I'm sharing exactly how I made that happen by focusing on goals, streamlining my systems and taking consistent action. So if you're ready to take charge of your business and your time, grab your favorite drink and let's dive in. Welcome to the Mind your Time podcast. I'm Shannon Baker, your coffee-loving host and business strategist. Each week, I will share practical insights and bold strategies for six-figure entrepreneurs looking to clean up their back office and create streamlined systems. The weekly episodes will help you take control of your time, scale your business and create success on your own terms. So grab your cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and let's dive into today's topic. As we all gear up for a brand new year, it's time for you to shift gears, my friend. I want you to start by leaving behind anything that did not work this year, double down on everything that did and start preparing for the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead. I mean, I can't believe it's been a year since I said goodbye to working my business part-time by leaving my day job and going all in. So when this episode actually goes live, it's almost one year that I'm celebrating of fully stepping into this business a business that works for me, not the other way around and you can make that happen too. But let me be clear I don't want you to wait until January to start planning. That's a missed opportunity waiting to happen. So back in the episode how making September your January can transform your business, I talked about why waiting until January to plan is a mistake and how starting sooner can change everything. So it's not too late, no matter when you're listening to this episode. But today we're going to build on that conversation and really dive into the exact process that I use to make this happen. That's focusing on goals, streamlining my systems and taking consistent action. So let's start by talking about what no one tells you about planning for success. It is not about waiting for the perfect time or having all the answers, because that's never going to happen. It's about taking action even when things are scary and messy. And all of us have heard the phrase if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. It's simple and true, and today I'm going to share the process again that helped me build a business that works for me, but without the overwhelm.

And here's the big question Well, when exactly should you start planning? Well, the short answer is it depends. Again, I start my year in January because it's my business, so it's my choice. So the work that I did in September, october and November is the equivalent of my first quarter. So I was planting seeds that will start to bloom over the next several months.

And guess what? You have the same freedom to choose what is best for you in your business. Don't buy into the myth that you need to have everything figured out before you take action because, honestly, we're trailblazers and most of us are building the parachute after we jump off the cliff. And that's fine for some things, but it will not work all the time. And when it comes to running your business, winging it will not cut it if you want your business to thrive and grow. So if you keep putting off streamlining your back office, it's not a question of if you were going to hit a roadblock, it's a matter of when. And, trust me, it's a lot harder to fix those problems when you're already in the thick of it. I mean, I get it. Overwhelm is real and it is an ugly monster. But staying in that too much to do and I say that in air quotes mindset is definitely a fast track to burnout. The key is to take the first step and break the cycle Now. This isn't just advice that I'm throwing your way, because I've been where you are.

Back in 2019, I made the bold decision to close my virtual assistant business because it wasn't aligned with my values or my goals. I was overwhelmed, I was dissatisfied with my workload and I was struggling to maintain a good work-life integration, and that was a really hard choice. But I made it and I stepped back and I went back to work part-time. But I made it and I stepped back and I went back to work part time. That decision gave me the space that I needed to reevaluate what I wanted, get clear on my vision and design a business that actually supported the lifestyle I wanted. One of the things that helped me get that clarity was investing in paid strategy calls, while I listened to podcasts during the entire process because they were free. I refused to download any more freebies or buy any online courses, or even if they were free, I did not grab them. And those paid strategy sessions they helped me get really clear on my mission, vision and purpose, which shaped the way that I updated my services and definitely shaped the way I handled and planned for this podcast. I didn't just want a business. I wanted a business that aligned with my values and gave me the freedom I wanted, which was to prioritize my faith and my family, and that clarity became the foundation for everything that I built.

Moving forward so fast forward to 2021, I had created a very detailed strategy to grow my business revenue and replace the income from my part-time job and be fully focused on my business. The first lesson that I learned be patient with the process. I had to take very intentional, small steps and it paid off. Last December, I left that job for good and let me tell you, it felt amazing to step in a business that I had built, one that had purpose, strategy and the systems required to support it. But the process that got me to that point, so that I could leave my job and fully embrace being an entrepreneur full time, is now what I call the power in motion framework, and it's designed to help you align your goals, systems and actions so that you can grow your business without overwhelm.

So let's break this down letter by letter. The first step is P pick one goal. The number one mistake I see entrepreneurs make is trying to tackle too much at once. So black coffee chat time. Stop trying to multitask. It's not working. Focus is power. It's actually a secret weapon that I learned to love years ago. So this is what I want you to do Start by identifying one clear, measurable goal for the next 90 days. That's all I want you to focus on.

When I was working toward leaving my job, my goal wasn't to grow my business, one that's generic. It was to build the six core systems and integrate automation to save me time. That made all the difference, especially because I was working part-time. Now I know it's been drilled into our heads that we need to set big, lofty goals, and I'm not saying that you need to stop doing that, but I am saying that you need to narrow your focus. It will allow you to make real progress.

One of my clients struggled with this. They wanted to improve their marketing, streamline their operations and onboard new team members all at the same time. That sounds great in theory, but it's too much to do at once, so we broke it all down and focused on streamlining their operations first. You need the systems before you integrate people. So in the first 90 days, we documented a number of basic processes that were missing and that was based on the goal that they had, which is growing a team. So this was done in the nick of time because the virtual assistant that was working with them at that time resigned on short notice I mean like less than a week. The best part, because we had started streamlining those processes and integrating automations, including using the online scheduler that was already in place, more effectively. This saved them $700 a month. They didn't have to pay a person to manually do a lot of tasks. That focus created momentum for everything else that we did moving forward.

So let's talk about how you can set meaningful goals. We all know the acronym set smart goals, but my smart goals framework has a little bit of a twist. The S is for specific. Define exactly what success looks like for you, and I don't want you to say something like make more money. We all want to make money. Money makes the world go round, but what does more mean for you? Be clear More for me is more money to pay off some credit card debt, that I have More money to take care of vacation expenses without having to tap into the normal household income. So what is your more? And then the M stands for mind your business. Ignore what everybody else is doing. Social media is full of highlight reels and trust and believe they're not reality. So focus on your journey. That's it. The A is for appropriate. Make sure your goal fits the current season your life is in.

Timing is everything. If right now, you're focused on family time, it's not a good time for you to start a huge project that also is going to require your time. So that leads to the R. Be realistic. I want you to push yourself, but don't set a goal that's so big that you end up in decision paralysis. Progress is way better than perfection, and when you create a 90-day plan to reach your goal, you can work that plan for more than 90 days if needed. And when you reach a milestone that brings us to the T, treat yourself. Celebrate your wins, whether they're big or small. Progress deserves recognition. When you celebrate, you release those happy hormones in your brain that they love and you will want more. So go for it Now if you're ready to get started setting your SMART goals for your business. I have made it simple. Inside of the Mighty Society membership, there is a goal setting worksheet workbook that is designed to help you break down your big dreams and identify those clear, actionable steps. Full disclosure. I created these worksheets myself as I was working my plan, and I know they can make a difference for you.

Next, you need to organize your operations Now. This is where you have to be honest about the way your systems are set up, or your lack of systems. When I audited my back office, I realized I was wasting hours because there were some kinks in the system. So I was still tracking leads manually on some levels. I was creating some of the same messages over and over again and I was wasting time looking for certain documents because my files weren't properly organized. Yes, me not totally organized. But once I organized my files the correct way, documented the processes the way they needed to be, and integrated tech tools the right way, that freed up at least 10 hours every week, which gave me the space that I needed to focus on what mattered most, and it wasn't always my business. Now, if you're not sure where to start with auditing your systems. Don't worry, you need to grab a copy of my BizOps checklist. It is a quick, fillable PDF that you can complete in less than two minutes, but it walks you through the processes which are the key areas of your back office, so that way you can identify what you have and what you're missing very quickly. I'll put a link to that again in the show notes so you can download it and start this process right away.

Now, once you have more insight into your operations and you know where you need to start and where you need to give some attention, it's time to W work on the plan. We all know a goal without a plan is just a wish, so I suggest breaking your goal into actionable steps and setting realistic timelines. That's why the goal setting worksheets in the Mighty Society are just for 90-day planning. Small windows make it much easier. Whenever I work on streamlining a process, I have three milestones that I focus on Map out the process, choose the right tool or tools and build a smooth workflow that is client-focused. That clarity keeps me on track and moving forward.

Then we get to the hard part E execute consistently. This is where most people fall off the tracks. Consistency isn't pretty or fun, and creating systems it's not pretty or fun either, but it's what moves the needle forward and leads to the transformation that you want. Small, intentional actions every day are how I grew my business while working a job, building a business and raising a family. That's how you'll create lasting results, too. And then, finally, the R is for remember. That's how you'll create lasting results too. And then, finally, the R is for remember, refine and review.

Growth is not linear. When you're an entrepreneur, some strategies are going to work, some won't, but the key is to evaluate regularly, refine what is working and then what isn't. Either stop and adjust or move on. For example, I discovered early on that my scheduling process needed a little bit of tweaking, so I had to make some adjustments, and then I kept moving forward. The key is to remember your why and let it guide you, especially when things get tough. Why are you doing this? Why are you implementing this new system? That's why picking the right goal is so important. What is the end result you want? Focus on that and keep that as your guide, your North Star. Now let's talk about why this matters right now. Well, the year is winding down, the calendar year, that is, there's a natural slowdown in business this time of the year, and this is kind of like what happens during the summer. This quiet time is a golden opportunity for you to reflect, reorganize and prepare for growth. By starting now, you're positioning yourself to hit the ground running in January, instead of you scrambling to catch up Now.

Before we wrap up today, I want to address two common challenges that I've seen, that's, integrating your work and personal life. My suggestion is to use time blocking so that you can dedicate focused time for planning, and you need to communicate boundaries to your family and your team if you have one. Time blocking really helps you stay focused and limit the number of things that you're working on. And when it comes to creating your systems. The Mighty Society membership is designed for you to make progress, even if you only give it your back office attention 30 minutes a week.

The next thing stop over committing. No is a complete sentence and it doesn't require an explanation, but there are other ways for you to say no, and it doesn't require an explanation, but there are other ways for you to say no. So practice saying no to anything, that's tasks or opportunities that do not align with your goals, focus on quality over quantity. So let's do a quick recap, because we covered the power and motion framework, which helps you pick one goal organize your operations, work on the plan, execute consistently, remember, refine and review Again. This is the process that I've used to grow my business and leave my job a year ago, and I know it can help you too. It's also the process that I use with my clients and it's the framework that my services are built on, because I know it works.

So what's going to be your next step? Will you download the BizOps checklist from the show notes and identify the inefficiencies in your back office so you can fill in the gaps? Or are you ready to give this a go on your own? If you are, go check out the membership. Theshannonbakercom forward slash membership. Join us inside the Mighty Society membership because you'll get access to resources like the goal setting worksheets, process templates, message templates. You get access to me and a community of like-minded women that will support you on this journey, and so much more. This will help you create the business that works for you. So don't wait. Take action now. Let's make next year your best year yet.

Thank you for tuning in this week. Remember just listening to this episode will not get you better results, so I challenge you to break the mold and take action today. If you're unsure where to start, book a call with me to get your questions answered about the Mighty Society, membership or anything else that I mentioned. A link to my calendar is in the show notes. Not ready to take that step yet? No problem. Be sure to connect with me on Instagram at the underscore Shannon Baker. You can ask me your questions there, or let me know that you enjoyed the episode by taking a screenshot, sharing it and tagging me Now.

If you haven't already grabbed my free audio masterclass, why don't you just start there? It's a great first step to assess your back office on your own, and this masterclass provides valuable insights and practical steps to help you organize your processes, reduce chaos and improve efficiency. Go to theshannonbakercom forward. Slash audio masterclass Now. If you haven't left a review for the podcast yet, please do so. I would love to hear from you, and it's an easy way to show some love to the podcast and help me reach more small business owners who are ready to defy the status quo. I can't wait to hear from you. So until next time, keep calm and streamline.

Are you tired of spending your wills trying to grow your business without seeing results? Well, today we're revisiting one of the six core systems every business needs to thrive it's your sales and marketing system. This system is what takes you from being busy and broke to being intentional and paid, because it connects your efforts to the results that you deserve. If follow-ups feel like a struggle or you're not sure what to sell or how to sell it, then this episode is just for you. If follow-ups feel like a struggle or you're not sure what to sell or how to sell it, then this episode is just for you. Welcome to the Mind your Time podcast.

I'm Shannon Baker, your coffee-loving host and business strategist. Each week, I will share practical insights and bold strategies for six-figure entrepreneurs looking to clean up their back office and create streamlined systems. The weekly episodes will help you take control of your time, scale your business and create success on your own terms. So grab your cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and let's dive into today's topic. Does running your business ever make you feel like you're just spinning plates? You've got marketing tasks, client work, administrative responsibilities and much more, and all of them demand your attention. And just when you think you've got it under control, a plate or two comes crashing down. Does this sound familiar? Well, if you're nodding your head yes, then you're not alone, because I've been there too.

As a matter of fact, a few years ago, I hit a wall. My business wasn't growing, I was burnt out and my income had plateaued. The worst part I felt stuck in chaos. I was scrambling to keep up and I wasn't seeing the results I wanted in my business, and no matter what I tried or how hard I worked, nothing seemed to stick. That's when I had to face the hard truth I didn't have the systems in place that I needed so that they would support the business I was trying to build, and without the right systems, I was basically working hard and not smart. So I made a decision that felt like I was admitting defeat at the time. I went back to work part-time and while looking back on it now, I see that it was the best decision that I could have ever made. It was a hard decision, but that decision gave me the breathing room that I needed to step back from my business, evaluate it honestly and reimagine what I wanted my business to look and feel like if I was going to give it another try.

This process also gave me clarity on something that's very important I needed to stop leaving things to chance and start building systems that worked for me not the other way around and One of the biggest gaps that I identified was in my sales and marketing efforts. I practiced what we all know to be called spaghetti marketing. I would create a social media plan, I would stick to it for a month or two and then, with all the things I had to do, I would get overwhelmed and I would stop. With all the things I had to do, I would get overwhelmed and I would stop. I would sporadically send emails and would just hope that something would come from that. Really, it was chaotic, it was unsustainable and, let's be honest, it was ineffective. So that's when I sat down, I looked at what I had tried and I asked myself some really tough questions. I looked at what was working, I looked at what wasn't working and I identified what was missing. So here's what I learned from this whole process Hope is not a strategy.

Without a clear system to guide your efforts, you're going to always feel like you're scrambling to keep up. That's why having a sales and marketing system is so critical to the success of your business, and it's not just about checking off tasks on a list. It's about aligning your efforts to produce the results that you want so that you get paid. So now let's break this down, because this is a key to running a successful business that achieves sustainable growth. Years ago, I heard a marketing expert say something that I never forgot. She said marketing gets you seen and sales gets you paid. So I want you to think of marketing like it's a spotlight. It shines a light on your business so people can see what you do and what you offer. But, on the other hand, sales, that's applause from your audience. You get that the moment that someone decides to work with you or buy something from you. But you need both in order for your business to thrive. But here's the kicker they have to work together seamlessly if you're going to benefit from the work that you're putting in. Marketing without sales is like putting on a show and not selling any tickets. So people might know that it's happening, but they're not taking action. And sales without marketing, well, that's like shouting into a void no one even knows you're there and you're not getting paid. So your sales and marketing system ties these two elements together.

Now take a moment and think about how sales and marketing is or is not working in your business right now. Maybe you're posting consistently on social media, like I was, and you're not getting any leads. Or maybe you're getting leads, but you're not tracking them or following up. Remember, the fortune is in the follow-up. So if you're not following up, you're leaving money on the table. This is why tools like Kit, formerly known as ConvertKit, are game changers. I use Kit to create email workflows that automatically nurture my leads after they grab one of my lead magnets or after they join the Mighty Society membership. The automated sequences keep my audience engaged, and this saves me hours of manual work, not to mention having to remember to send multiple emails, because nine times out of ten, that will not happen. Most importantly, it helps me ensure that no lead falls through the cracks, especially on busy days.

But maybe you're different. Maybe you're sending emails, but you're not clear on what you're selling or who you're selling to. So you may get some engagement, but you're still not getting results. Well, if that's the case, then there's a gap in your sales and marketing system, but it can be filled because this system ensures that your efforts are intentionally aligned with your goals. So let me give you an example. Let's say you meet someone at a networking event, you exchange contact information and they seem interested in what you do. They know someone that may be interested in your services or you may serve the same audience or target audience.

But what happens next when you don't have a system in place? Well, more than likely you forget to follow up, or you send a quick email but you never hear back from them. Or you connect with them on LinkedIn and you never have another conversation. So you never hear from them and they never hear from you either. So that lead falls through the cracks and you lose an opportunity to build a relationship that could lead to a collaboration or even a new client. On the other hand, with a sales and marketing system, you would have a process in place to track their information, know where you met them, know what you talked about and follow up with a personalized email or a personalized message on LinkedIn. But this is also where having a tool like mondaycom comes in handy. I use mondaycom to keep track of leads, to manage tasks and even automate parts of my follow-up process. So it's like having a second brain to ensure that nothing falls through the cracks.

Small steps like these lead to big results, but I'm going to take it a step further, because a sales and marketing system is not just about getting leads and making sales. It's really about creating a sustainable business that works for you and not the other way around. It helps you focus your mind on what's working, mind your time more efficiently and, most importantly, helps you avoid burning out. But it's also connected to the other five core systems in your business, like your customer care process, to make sure that you provide the best customer experience inside and outside of your business. Now let's talk about the steps you need to take to build this system.
There are three key questions that you absolutely have to answer. I learned these from Stacey Harris of the More Profitable Podcast, and they've been a game changer for me. So those questions are what are you selling, who are you selling it to and how are you selling it? Now, these questions might seem real simple, but they are very powerful because they force you to get clear on your goals so you can create a strategy. Without clear answers, it's impossible for you to create a system that works, so you need to make time to answer these questions, write them down, reflect on them and then use them as the foundation for your marketing strategy.

And once you have your strategy, you need to create a plan and then execute it. This is where your customer care process comes in. This process should include three things A way for you to track your leads or those new contacts. Response templates that you can use to respond quickly and consistently in a clear process for tracking where people are in your customer journey so that you can follow up at the right time. Without all these pieces, leads are going to continue to fall through the cracks and you're going to miss out on opportunities. So if you want to hear more about creating an effective customer care process, then check out the previous episode I did on that. It's how to build an effective communication system to unlock sustainable growth. I'll put a link to that in the show notes.

Now, once your customer care process in place, you can focus on generating new leads and nurturing those relationships, and a great way to do this is by offering a free lead magnet. This is a resource that will provide value to them and you can use it to attract potential clients. But choosing the right lead magnet, it can be a bit tricky, and I'm not a marketing expert, but I have to tell you I've worked with some of the best, and what I learned from them inspired me to create a handy tool that's inside of the Mighty Society membership. I call it the Marketing Matrix Analyzer. This spreadsheet is designed to help you evaluate your current offers and identify which ones will have the biggest financial impact with the least amount of effort. It essentially takes the guesswork out of prioritizing your marketing efforts. It essentially takes the guesswork out of prioritizing your marketing efforts. So if you're tired of wasting time on marketing that doesn't get you results, then this tool will be a game changer for you. But now let's talk about how the system connects to your bigger business goals.

A sales and marketing system isn't just about making more money. It's about creating more freedom. When you're not scrambling to figure out what to post or how to follow up, you can focus on what really matters. Now for me, my top goal is always to spend more time with my family and be fully present, but sometimes it's also to build up our vacation fund or even to save for a special occasion. Now, your goals may be similar or they might be different. Either way, your system should support what's most important to you.

So here's how you can get started. The first thing you need to do is pick one hour this week that you're going to answer the three questions what are you selling, who are you selling it to and how are you selling it? And then you use your answers to outline your next steps. Next, you need to identify one repetitive task in your sales or marketing process and automate it. Maybe it's creating canned email responses that you can use when someone inquires about your services, or you can set up a workflow to track your leads and follow up with them. That also requires message templates. These small steps lead to big progress. Finally, remember this your sales and marketing system is not just something that's nice to have. It's the engine of your business. It's the system that drives everything forward. And inside of the Mighty Society membership, you're going to find tools, templates and resources that you can use to build a system that works for you and that includes that marketing matrix analyzer and customizable workflows. So if you want to learn more about the membership, head over to theshannonbakercom forward slash membership to learn more. Let's build your business with clarity, consistency and confidence so that you can thrive on your own terms.

Now, before we wrap things up, let me recap what we covered today. First, we talked about the importance of having a sales and marketing system that aligns your efforts to produce real results, and this system connects your marketing, that spotlight that gets you seen to your sales, the applause that drives revenue. Without both working together, you're either missing out on leads or letting them fall through the cracks. Without both working together, you're either missing out on leads or letting them fall through the cracks. Then we broke down the three important questions that form the foundation of any successful marketing strategy. It's what are you selling, who are you selling it to and how are you selling it? These questions are very simple, but the answers they give you clarity so you can create a roadmap to focus your time and energy where it matters most. We also talked about the essentials of having a strong customer care process. You need to track your leads, you need to respond quickly and consistently and you need to follow up and nurture those relationships, and I introduced you to some tools that I personally use in my process, which makes this seamless, like Kit for automated email workflows and Mondaycom for tracking tasks and managing leads.

From there we talked about how these systems aren't just about making more money, but it's about creating more freedom. So, whether your goal is more family time, financial stability, to reduce your credit or simply just to have a sense of peace, these systems are designed to support the life that you want, not just the business that you're building. And finally, I'm going to encourage you to take action this week. So where should you start? Well, start by answering those three foundational questions. Look for one repetitive task in your sales or marketing process that you can automate, because, remember, small, intentional steps add up to big results over time.
Now, I know this could be a lot, so if this feels overwhelming or you're not sure where to start, I want to remind you that you don't have to figure this out on your own. Join us inside of the Mighty Society membership. You'll find tools like that marketing matrix analyzer, some customizable workflows that you can use to simplify these steps for you, or even message templates that you can customize and start using in your business right now. It's your shortcut to a streamlined, sustainable business that supports your goals. So what's your next step? Will you keep spinning plates or will you choose clarity and consistency along with freedom? Let's build your business together, one system at a time. I know you've got this and I'm here to support you every step of the way.

Thank you for tuning in this week. Remember, just listening to this episode will not get you better results. So I challenge you to break the mold and take action today. If you're unsure where to start, book a call with me to get your questions answered about the Mighty Society membership or anything else that I mentioned. A link to my calendar is in the show notes. Not ready to take that step yet? No problem. Be sure to connect with me on Instagram, at the underscore Shannon Baker. You can ask me your questions there or let me know that you enjoyed the episode by taking a screenshot, sharing it and tagging me.

Now. If you haven't already grabbed my free audio masterclass, why don't you just start there? It's a great first step to assess your back office on your own, and this masterclass provides valuable insights and practical steps to help you organize your processes, reduce chaos and improve efficiency. Go to theshannonbakercom forward slash audio masterclass Now. If you haven't left a review for the podcast yet, please do so. I would love to hear from you, and it's an easy way to show some love to the podcast and help me reach more small business owners who are ready to defy the status quo. I can't wait to hear from you, so until next time, keep calm and streamline.

Keeping track of your business finances isn’t just about getting by—it’s what sets the stage for growth and success. Today, we’re breaking down one of the six core systems every business needs: a money management system. If you’re tired of stressing over where your money’s going and want to feel confident about your financial decisions, this episode is for you.

Did you know that nearly half of the small businesses started fail within their first five years? It’s not because the owners aren’t working hard enough—it’s usually because they don’t have a handle on their money. Managing your business finances can sometimes feel like you’re trying to put together a puzzle without all the pieces. If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. In fact, most, if not all, entrepreneurs struggle with this, which is why it’s one of the six core systems all of us need to get in place but often don’t.
The other day, I was chatting with a fellow entrepreneur over coffee, and she said something that stuck with me: "Shannon, sometimes I feel like I’m making money just to watch it disappear." She laughed it off, but I could tell there was a real frustration behind that statement. And I get it—because I’ve been there, too.
When I first started my business, I didn’t have a system to track my income and expenses. On top of that, my business and personal finances were completely commingled. Everything was flowing in and out of multiple personal accounts, and I had no clear picture of what money belonged to the business versus what was a personal expense. Let me tell you—it was a complete and utter mess.
I was constantly playing catch-up, trying to piece together where my money had gone. Tax time was a nightmare, and I’d find myself scrambling to pull together receipts and statements to figure out what I had paid out to keep the business running. The stress was overwhelming. I remember thinking, "I’m working really hard, but where is it all going?" It felt like I was running in circles and getting nowhere.
It wasn’t until I decided to sit down and create a money management system that things started to change. I started by getting a PayPal business account so I could invoice my clients and track that through reports. This also meant I had a place where the business income could be kept separate and used for the business. And because I had a business debit card, I could pay bills from that account instead of our personal accounts until I was ready to open a business account.
Suddenly, I could see exactly what my recurring expenses were in one place! And my clients were automatically billed each month! For the first time, I wasn’t just reacting—I was planning. This system gave me the clarity I needed to make smarter decisions. I could finally separate what was personal and what was business. It helped me set a clear budget, plan for growth, and even pay myself consistently. And let me tell you, once I had that in place, it was like a weight was lifted. I wasn’t just working harder—I was working smarter, making decisions with confidence, and even sleeping better at night.
Money is one of the hottest topics that can spark an argument in a home (I know this firsthand), especially when the money is running short. Many business owners struggle with this exact issue. But the good news is that it’s an absolutely fixable issue.
Today, I’m going to share how you can set up a simple money management system to take control of your business finances. This isn’t about spreadsheets that make your head spin or complicated and expensive software—it’s about creating clarity in your business, building confidence in your numbers, and knowing exactly where your money is going. And before we’re done today, I’ll tell you how we can work together to get this system set up so you can stop worrying about it and start focusing on what you love.
Here’s the thing: you can’t make smart business decisions if you don’t know your numbers. Whether it’s investing in a new tool, hiring help, or even planning a vacation, it all comes back to understanding where your money is going.
Let me share an example of a client who came to me during her first year in business. She was a talented caterer who made over $70,000 that year. On paper, everything looked great. But when she checked her bank account at the end of the year, there was barely anything left. She was frustrated and confused, and she couldn’t figure out where all the money had gone.
Here’s what we uncovered: she wasn’t tracking her expenses or keeping tabs on her cash flow. She had no idea what her profit margins were, especially when it came to costs tied to each event—ingredients, supplies, or labor. She also had employees helping with events but didn’t have a system to track their hours. Without knowing her labor costs, she couldn’t accurately calculate how much she was spending to fulfill her contracts. And because her pricing wasn’t based on her actual costs, she was losing money on some of her gigs without even realizing it.
The first thing we had to do was set up a basic money management system. She started tracking her recurring expenses on a spreadsheet, then we started tracking one-time costs, and event-specific costs like ingredients and rentals. We also implemented a simple electronic check-in system for her employees to track their attendance and labor hours. This allowed her to see exactly how much she was spending on staffing for each event.
With these systems in place, she finally had a full picture of all the pieces of her business finances. She could see where her money was going, adjust her pricing to reflect her true costs, and make more intentional decisions. For example, she realized that certain events required more staffing than she originally thought, which was eating into her profits. By knowing her numbers, she was able to set better prices and negotiate with clients more confidently, and her business continued to grow.
This example shows why it’s so important to create systems for your finances. Without them, even the hardest-working business owner can struggle to turn a profit.
Let’s talk about where you can start. Money going out—also known as accounts payable—generally falls into three categories:
Recurring monthly expenses: These are things like subscriptions for tools you use in your business, email marketing platforms, or scheduling software.
Annual recurring expenses: Think of professional memberships, website hosting, or tools billed yearly.
One-time expenses: This might include attending conferences, purchasing equipment, or investing in professional development.
You can start by creating a spreadsheet with all of these items. List the expense name, amount, due date, and payment method. This gives you a clear picture of where your money is going, and it’s a lifesaver if you need to update payment information, like when you get a new credit card.
And don’t forget to track your receipts. I know, it’s not glamorous, but it’s essential. You can set up a digital filing system to make this easier. If you’re not sure where to start, go check out my episode ‘Transform Frustrating Chaos with a Game-Changing Filing System.’ I walk you through the exact steps to create a system that works for you. Trust me, this will save you so much time and stress, especially come tax season.
Once you’ve tackled expenses and receipts, it’s time to monitor your cash flow—also known as accounts receivable—the money coming in. This isn’t just about knowing how much you made last month—it’s about spotting patterns. Maybe you notice that most of your income comes in during certain months, and others are slower. With that insight, you can plan ahead and avoid scrambling when things get tight.
Whether you send invoices or rely on auto-billing (which I highly recommend), you need to track those payments as they come in. If you work with clients on a recurring basis, having a process for handling declined or late payments is essential as well. And you should have clauses in your service agreements that clearly identify what happens when you aren’t paid on time. Templates for reminders or follow-ups can save you time and ensure you get paid on schedule.
For my clients and members of the MY-T Society membership, we start with a simple business expense spreadsheet, which is one of the resources included in the membership. It’s designed to help you identify and track all of your monthly and one-time expenses at a glance. But that’s just the beginning. The MY-T Society membership also gives you access to tools, templates, and workflows to help you manage not just your finances, but your entire back office with ease.
Let me emphasize this: having your numbers in front of you is empowering. It allows you to identify gaps, spot opportunities to save, and plan for growth. For creatives, like my catering client, knowing the cost of materials, labor, and even your time is essential for pricing your products and services in a way that reflects your true value and leaves you with a decent profit margin.
But I also know that when it comes to money, fear can creep in. You might be worried that you’re not making enough to support your family. Or maybe you’re afraid of taking risks because you don’t feel confident about your finances. Some of you might feel overwhelmed simply because you’ve never been great with numbers. These fears are valid, but they don’t have to hold you back.
Imagine this instead: What if you didn’t have to figure it out on your own? What if you had a partner to help you create a system that worked for you and made managing your finances simple and stress-free? That’s exactly what we’ll do together during a B.O.O.S.T. Day.
During a B.O.O.S.T. Day, we’ll set up your money management system by creating processes for tracking your expenses and income. I’ll even help you implement tools to handle things like labor costs or payment reminders. By the end of the day, you’ll have a plan for managing your money and a system in place to take the guesswork out of your finances. No more worrying, no more procrastinating—it’s done. This will make tax time so much easier for you!
Let’s recap what we’ve covered today.

A money management system is essential for running a sustainable business. Whether you’re tracking costs to price your products or managing recurring expenses, having a clear picture of your finances puts you in control. If you’re ready to get started, the MY-T Society membership includes a business expense spreadsheet that can help you hit the ground running. And if you want hands-on support, book a B.O.O.S.T. Day with me—we’ll set everything up together so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
DM me on Instagram @the_shannonbaker if you have questions about anything we’ve discussed today or go to theshannonbaker.com/membership to learn more about joining the membership.
And now that’s we’ve talked about tracking and managing your money, meet me back here next week to talk about the two components every business needs to make money, a sales and marketing system.

Hello, and welcome back! If you caught our bonus episode earlier this week, you know we got real about why things can feel so overwhelming when there aren’t systems in place. Today, we’re diving straight into the “how”—breaking down exactly how to start building those systems so you can experience more freedom, clarity, and efficiency in your business.
And a quick heads-up: my flash sale on MY-T Society is happening tomorrow! If you’re ready to make that shift and start putting the systems we’re talking about into action, you won’t want to miss it.
Alright, let’s jump into today’s steps and get you set up for success!

Did you catch our bonus episode earlier this week? If not, no worries—I’ll get you up to speed really quickly because today, we’re going to talk about the steps you need to follow to create your business systems. But I do recommend you go back and listen to the episode where I highlight the common fears that hold entrepreneurs back from creating their business systems and how to push through them. I’ll put a link to that in the show notes for you.
I decided to do these two episodes in the same week because I know how easy it is to be juggling all the pieces just to keep things moving in your business and how hard it is to stop doing that. But the good news? Today, we’re breaking down how to start building the systems you need to create more freedom, focus, and efficiency in your business and end the juggling act. One of my mentors always says “Only clowns juggle.” And we’re business owners not clowns. So where do we start this transformative process after we change our mindset?
It starts with a clear understanding of what systems are and why they’re so essential. As the SheEO of your business, you need to fully understand what I mean when I say “systems” and how they’re designed to support, not stifle, your ability to lead effectively.
A system is the combination of three elements that work together to perform a specific task: a step-by-step process, the tools needed to automate those steps, and the person completing the tasks. Systems are the backbone of your business operations. Without documented, repeatable processes, you don’t have a business—you have a “you.” When you set up systems for recurring tasks, you save time, reduce mistakes, and create consistency. They form the foundation for a business that can thrive without you holding every piece together, usually by duct tape when you don’t have systems.
Whether you’re just getting started in business or have been in business for years, there are six core systems you need, and I’ve dedicated an entire episode to each one. But I’ll put a link in the show notes to the episode where I give you a high-level overview of all six. Inside The MY-T Society membership, there is a roadmap that shows you which systems are essential based on the stage of your journey. So if you’re not sure where to start, you’ll know exactly what to focus on based on where you are in your journey. If you don’t have the system in place, then you need to give it some attention.
And because this is my area of expertise and not yours, I know that it’s easy for me to put the system in place. But it’s not necessarily as easy for you to take my advice. That’s why today we’re going to talk about how you can actually build these systems.
These four steps will guide you to creating a solid foundation that frees up your time and allows you to operate more effectively.
Step 1: Identify Your Bottlenecks
First, identify where you’re feeling stuck or frustrated. More times than not, you are the bottleneck. The frustration often comes from a lack of structure, so focus on the biggest pain points—those “leaks” in your business that are costing you time, energy, or even money. Think of it this way: if you discovered leaks in your roof, you’d want to patch the biggest holes first, right? Use that same approach in your business. Start by addressing the biggest issue, which sometimes means addressing how you’re handling things.
You can also download a copy of the Biz Ops Checklist via the link in the show notes. This handy little checklist is also available inside the membership. You can complete it in under two minutes and quickly spot gaps in your back office so you can prioritize the processes that need the most attention. This tool alone could save you hours of frustration by helping you tackle issues in the right order.
Step 2: Document Your Processes
Once you’ve identified the main frustrations, it’s time to start documenting your processes. I know this can feel like a big task, but let’s make it easy. Start with a simple checklist. In fact, I dive deeper into this in an episode called "How to Harness the Power of Checklists to Transform Your Business" because checklists are the easiest way to capture the basics of any process. I’ll put a link to this episode in the show notes.
Think about it: pilots use checklists, doctors use them, and you’re probably already using them in your life—like for grocery shopping or packing for a trip. So why not use them in your business? Checklists give you a clear, actionable starting point for repeated tasks, making the entire system-building process much more manageable. As you start creating checklists, think of them as the foundation you’ll build on as you detail out each process.
From there, you can begin mapping out these steps in more detail, especially if you’re aiming to automate parts of your business or delegate tasks. Inside MY-T Society, we also have a workbook called How to Map Out Your Process in 5 Steps. This workbook guides you through the essentials of documenting processes, making it easy to create a step-by-step guide for each area of your business.
Here are two ways to approach documenting processes:
Screen Recording: Use an app like Loom to record yourself as you complete the process. This gives you both a visual record and a transcript that you can edit to use as your documented process. Plus, this video becomes part of your training library, so when you hire someone, they can actually see each step in action. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words—so how much would you say a video is worth? Personally, I think they’re priceless!
Voice Recording: If video feels like too much, use your phone to record yourself talking through each step as you complete it. Then, upload that recording into a tool like Otter.ai or Rev to transcribe it, giving you a text version of your process that you can refine as needed.
These simple steps make documenting easier and ensure you’ll have clear, actionable instructions that anyone on your team can follow.
Step 3: Test the Process
With your process documented, the next step is testing it out. This is where having a team member or someone outside your business try it can be invaluable. You want to make sure that anyone can follow the process without needing your constant guidance. Testing will reveal any gaps or unclear instructions, allowing you to refine the process before fully implementing it.
In MY-T Society, you’re not only equipped with templates, but you also have access to a community of entrepreneurs who can give feedback on your processes and share their experiences with testing and refining systems. This collaboration can help you troubleshoot issues faster, saving you time and frustration.
Step 4: Refine and Improve
Finally, remember that systems aren’t static; they need to evolve with your business. Review and improve them regularly—ideally twice a year, but no less than once. Slow seasons are a great time to do this. And if you have a dream team, involve them in this process. Their feedback is invaluable because they’re the ones working directly with these systems. When your team feels ownership, they’re more engaged and invested in making these processes even better.
Inside MY-T Society, there’s a handy tool to help you with this—the Entrepreneurial Journey Roadmap, which helps you track your business’s growth and make the necessary tweaks to keep moving forward. You’re not just investing in systems; you’re investing in sustainable success, which means you’re investing in your future.
So now that we’ve broken down each step, let’s do a quick recap to bring it all together:
Identify Your Bottlenecks: Start by spotting those "leaks" in your business that are costing you time, energy, or money. And if you’re feeling stuck, grab the Biz Ops Checklist to help you prioritize what needs attention.
Document Your Processes: Begin with checklists to capture the basics, then map out each step in more detail. Tools like Loom and Otter.ai can help make documentation easy and sustainable. Inside MY-T Society, we’ve got a workbook called How to Map Out Your Process in 5 Steps to guide you through this process.
Test the Process: Get feedback from a team member or someone outside your business to make sure your processes are clear and workable. MY-T Society’s community is there to offer support, helping you troubleshoot and refine your processes.
Refine and Improve: Systems should evolve with your business. Review and improve them regularly, and bring your team into the process. The Entrepreneurial Journey Roadmap inside MY-T Society can guide you in tracking your growth and adjusting as needed.
When you implement these four steps, you’re creating a powerful foundation that lets your business run smoothly, even when you’re not at the helm. Imagine what that could mean for your freedom and growth!
Remember, implementing systems is a journey, not a race. It’s about creating a business that supports you fully, giving you back your time, your freedom, and your peace of mind. When you’re ready to make that shift, consider MY-T Society as your partner in this process. Inside, you’ll find instant access to resources like How to Map Out Your Process in 5 Steps, the Welcome Kit & Onboarding Process Workbook, customizable message templates, and so much more.
But beyond the tools, you’ll be joining a community of driven entrepreneurs like you—people committed to building businesses that reflect their values, enhance their lives, and allow them to thrive. This is your space to find support, inspiration, and the guidance you need to grow with confidence. Together, let’s build a business that not only sustains your success but also empowers you to enjoy it every step of the way.