Does this sound like you? You want to start your own business but feel stuck, unsure where to begin. Maybe you’re battling self-doubt or afraid of failing in public. I’ve been there too. 

But here’s the good news: You don’t have to stay stuck. With a clear plan and the right mindset, you can turn your calling into a profitable business.

Today, we’re diving into something super important: how to launch your online service-based business without feeling overwhelmed.

Step 1: Choose a Launch Path That Aligns with Your Season

The first thing to do is to choose a launch path that matches where you are in life right now. Ask yourself:

• How much time do I realistically have?
• When do I want to launch this business?

When I started my podcast, I only had four weeks to get it off the ground. At the time, I was also running my e-commerce logistics business, so my schedule was tight. I opted for what I call the audience-first path. This meant focusing solely on creating free content to serve my audience while keeping things simple.

There are three launch paths you can choose from:

1. Audience-First Path: Build an audience by consistently posting valuable content on a blog, podcast, or YouTube channel.
2. Service-First Path: Start selling your services right away. This works well if you have limited time and want to keep things simple.
3. The Whole Nine Yards: Launch both a content platform and your services at the same time.

Choose the path that best suits your current season. For example, if you’re working a 9-to-5, you might opt for the service-first path to avoid overwhelm. You can always expand your offerings as your business grows.

Step 2: Decide on Your Minimum Viable Business (MVB) and Set a Launch Date

Here’s where it gets exciting: It’s time to figure out your minimum viable business (MVB). This simply means deciding the smallest, simplest version of your business that you can launch. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just needs to provide value.

For example:

• If you’re a graphic designer, your MVB could be offering logo design as your first service.
• If you’re starting a coaching business, your MVB might be launching with just one coaching package.

Once you’ve decided on your MVB, set a launch date. This step is crucial! A clear deadline gives you something to aim for and keeps you motivated. Remember, your business doesn’t have to be perfect at launch—you can always improve as you go.

If you’re not sure what your MVB should look like, download my Business Clarity Blueprint. It’s packed with questions to help you figure out your services, pricing, and launch strategy.

Step 3: Create a Launch List

Now that you know your MVB and launch date, it’s time to get organized. Write down everything you need to do to launch. This is your launch list. Keeping it focused on your MVB will make it manageable and reduce stress.

For instance, if you’re launching a podcast, your launch list might include:

• Choosing a podcast platform
• Recording your first three episodes
• Creating simple cover art
• Uploading your episodes

By narrowing your focus to just the essentials, you’ll avoid overwhelm and stay on track. Remember, you don’t have to do everything—just what’s necessary to launch your business.

Step 4: Get One-Time Help

Let’s face it: Launching a business can feel like a lot, especially if you’re doing it alone. That’s why I recommend getting one-time help to execute your launch list.

This could mean:

• Hiring a virtual assistant (VA) for a few hours
• Booking a coaching session with an expert
• Asking a tech-savvy friend to help with setting up your website or email list

For my podcast launch, I hired someone to help with editing and graphics. It saved me so much time and stress! If you’re looking for support, head over to startthatbusinesspodcast.com to book a session with me. Together, we can tackle your launch list and get your business off the ground.

Step 5: Get Accountability

Lastly, let’s talk about accountability. This step is so important because it keeps you on track and helps you meet your launch date. Here are a few ways to build accountability:

• Join a business community: Surround yourself with like-minded people who are also launching their businesses.
• Hire an accountability coach: This person will check in with you regularly to ensure you’re making progress.
• Share your goal with a trusted friend: Ask them to hold you accountable and celebrate your wins along the way.

Accountability was a game-changer for me. It’s easy to procrastinate when you’re working alone, but having someone in your corner makes all the difference.

Let’s Recap!

Here are the five steps to launch your online service-based business without overwhelm:

1. Choose a launch path that aligns with your season.
2. Decide on your MVB and set a launch date.
3. Create a launch list with only the essentials.
4. Get one-time help to tackle your tasks.
5. Find accountability to keep you motivated.

Remember, you don’t have to do everything perfectly. Start small, stay focused, and trust the process.

A Quick Word of Encouragement

Friend, in Matthew 11:30, Jesus says, “For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Starting a business doesn’t have to feel heavy or overwhelming. Keep it simple, trust God, and take one step at a time. You’ve got this!

I’m praying for you as you take action on what you’ve learned today. If this episode blessed you, would you share it with someone who needs encouragement? And don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you’re listening. Your feedback means so much to me!

Until next time, remember: You already have everything you need to start your business. Keep showing up, keep trusting, and I’ll see you back here next week.

Ready to launch your business? Download my Business Clarity Blueprint and let’s get started!