Welcome back! If you’re here, it means you’re ready to build a business that fits your life—not the other way around. In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into what it takes to create a lifestyle business that aligns with your vision, values, and dreams. Because let’s be real—success isn’t just about numbers. It’s about freedom, impact, and designing a life that actually makes you excited to wake up every morning.
Defining Your Dream Lifestyle
Before we talk strategy, let’s zoom out: What does your ideal life actually look like? Forget what social media says about success. Do you dream of working from a beachside café, or does your vision include a cozy home office with endless coffee refills? Maybe it’s about having more time with family or making a real difference in your community.
Here’s the best part: there’s no wrong answer. Your business should support the life you want, not force you into a mold that doesn’t fit.
Historically, business meant apprenticeship—you learned a trade, took over a shop, and that was that. Today? The game has changed, and the opportunities are endless.
From Brick-and-Mortar to Digital Freedom
Back in the day, starting a business often meant big upfront costs. The U.S. Small Business Association estimates that opening a franchise can run anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000+. My parents took out a second mortgage to fund theirs—talk about high stakes! But since the 1990s, the rise of technology, remote work, and digital entrepreneurship has flipped the script.
Take Chiang Mai, Thailand, for example. When I visited as a Fulbright Scholar, I saw firsthand how digital nomads are thriving—running businesses from laptops, collaborating across time zones, and redefining what success looks like. And guess what? You can do the same.
The Rise of the Gig Economy & The New Apprenticeship
According to Forbes, 36% of American adults engage in gig work. This explosion of remote jobs, side hustles, and solopreneur ventures is proof that traditional business models aren’t the only option anymore.
The modern equivalent of an apprenticeship? Find someone who’s already doing what you want to do. Learn from them. Get inspired. But—and this is key—don’t fall into the comparison trap.
Comparison: The Fast Track to Self-Doubt
We’ve all been there. You see someone crushing it on Instagram, and suddenly, your progress feels microscopic. But here’s the deal: comparison is the enemy of progress.
Instead of spiraling into self-doubt, shift your focus: What do YOU actually want? Over the past seven years, I’ve coached countless entrepreneurs who chased businesses for money rather than alignment. The result? Burnout, frustration, and feeling trapped by their own success.
So, let’s do this right. Define success on your terms. And if you need some inspiration, let’s talk about someone who rewrote the rules: Amelia Earhart.
Amelia Earhart: Flying Beyond Boundaries
Amelia Earhart didn’t just break records—she broke barriers. Born in 1897, she became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic. But what’s more inspiring? She made sure she wouldn’t be the last.
She co-founded The Ninety-Nines, an organization for female pilots, which started with 99 members and now spans 155+ chapters worldwide. Her famous words still resonate today:
“Women must try to do the things as men have tried. When they fail, their failures must be but a challenge to others.”
Amelia understood something crucial: Success isn’t just personal—it’s about the doors you open for others.
Real Talk with Caitlin Hubert: Building a Brand with Purpose
In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Caitlin Hubert, founder of Tomboy Hair Care. What started with just six products has now expanded to 14. Her secret? Authenticity.
Caitlin didn’t have a background in tech or business. She learned by asking questions, reaching out for help, and staying curious. Her advice? People are willing to help—you just have to ask.
The Power of Social Media: More Than Just Followers
Caitlin started posting on Instagram in 2014, just for fun. But as her audience grew, she realized something: engagement can turn into income.
Her strategy wasn’t about selling—it was about connecting. She built trust before monetizing, and that’s the difference between brands that last and those that fade away. Her message? Be real, be kind, and build a brand that reflects who you truly are.
Taking Action: The First Step is the Hardest
Caitlin left us with a solid piece of advice: Start before you’re ready. Confidence isn’t a prerequisite for success—it’s a result of taking action. Every successful entrepreneur started somewhere, often with more doubts than answers.
So, if you’re waiting for the perfect moment? This is it.
Your Turn: Design Your Dream Business
Time for a quick reflection. Grab a journal and answer these:
- What does your dream business look like?
- What kind of impact do you want to make?
- What work environment fuels your best creativity?
- How big do you want your team to be?
- What’s your ideal income goal?
No pressure, no right answers—just your vision, your way.
Final Thoughts: Your Vision is Valid
Whether your goal is swapping corporate life for remote work or launching a global brand, your dream is valid. Surround yourself with the right people, commit to taking action, and trust the process.
One last tip? Tell someone your goals. Studies show that accountability skyrockets success rates. So, find your tribe and start building.
Empowerment is contagious. When you step into your power, you create ripples that inspire others. And that’s how real change happens. 🚀
Let’s build something amazing—together.
